A 1993 cold case in Missouri has finally been solved thanks to new evidence that emerged during a 2015 interrogation. Loril Harp, who was being questioned about the shooting death of liquor store owner Steven Weltig, was caught making incriminating comments when the police left the room. Detectives Brett Ackermann and Josh Wineinger reopened the case in 2020 and reviewed several hours of the 2015 interview, where they noticed Harp talking to himself and exhibiting suspicious behavior.
During the down time, Harp was seen talking on the phone, stating, “I’m not under arrest, but I probably will be before I leave here.” He also cursed out a woman and vehemently denied killing Weltig. His constant twitching, shuffling, and tapping further raised suspicions. The detectives found these behaviors to be significant in their investigation.
The breakthrough came when Ackermann overheard Harp making a phone call when no one was in the room. Harp was heard saying, “I’m going to jail,” and other statements that indicated his guilt. This prompted the detectives to bring Harp back for questioning in 2020, despite his failing health. During the interview, Harp evaded questions and played dumb for over three hours. However, toward the end, when confronted with evidence that placed him at the crime scene, Harp confessed to assaulting Weltig but denied shooting him.
Harp’s mention of the store’s side door as his escape route caught the detectives’ attention, as it matched the shooter’s getaway route. Additionally, Harp admitted to having blood on him when he returned home, further linking him to the crime. Despite Harp’s attempts to backtrack and attribute the blood to a fist fight, the detectives were convinced of his guilt.
On September 30, 2020, Harp was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action. Unfortunately, he passed away a year later at the age of 69 from an undisclosed illness, leaving behind unanswered questions about his motives and any potential accomplices.
This cold case breakthrough serves as a reminder of the importance of thorough investigations and the value of reviewing old evidence with fresh eyes. Detectives Ackermann and Wineinger’s persistence and attention to detail ultimately led to justice for Steven Weltig and closure for his family. The case highlights the significance of utilizing all available resources and techniques to solve long-standing mysteries and bring closure to grieving families.
