Victim's Name: Wilma Nissen

Case Information: Wilma Nissen's murdered body was found in a ditch near Rock Rapids, Iowa in 1978. Authorities believe her body had been laying in the ditch for as long as two months before being discovered. Her identity remained a mystery until 2006, when forensic testing positively identified her. In 2007, her remains were exhumed to undergo further testing to see if any clues could be found which would lead authorities to her killer. Upon being exhumed, it was found Nissen's casket had allowed water to leak in, virtually ruining any chances of finding usable DNA. The Iowa State Crime Lab in Des Moines reviewed her fingernails and clothing and found no DNA materials. This prompted Lyon County Sheriff Blythe Bloomendahl to ask the FBI Lab in Virginia to conduct further testing.

Case Status: Lyon County, Iowa authorities continue searching for new leads which will lead them to Nissen's killer. Sheriff Blythe Bloomendahl has told Action News that this case is a personal quest for him and that he will work however long it takes to bring Nissen's killer to justice.

How You Can Help: If you have any information about Wilma Nissen's murder, contact us through e-mail by clicking here. You can also contact the Lyon County, Iowa Sheriff's Department directly at 712-472-2521.