BOZEMAN — Thursday, Gallatin County Sheriff’s office announced the identity of the person responsible for the rape and murder of 15-year-old Daniel Houchins, who tragically lost her life at Cameron bridge almost 28 years ago. Despite now knowing the killer’s identity, the motive behind the heinous act may never be fully understood.
“After nearly 28 years of unanswered questions and lack of justice, we finally have some closure today,” says Stephanie Houchins, Danielle’s sister.
SOLVED: Gallatin County Sheriff closes book on cold case murder
On September 21st, 1996, Danielle Houchins left her Belgrade home at the age of 15 and headed to Cameron Bridge Fishing Access. Sadly, she never made it back home. A few hours after her disappearance, family friends discovered her lifeless body, a victim of a senseless crime.
“He was the one who violently assaulted my sister and ultimately took her life by drowning her in mud,” Stephanie reveals.
The mystery of who killed Danielle Houchins haunted investigators for nearly 28 years until recent developments.
“During the initial investigation, 4 hairs were collected from Danni’s body,” Sheriff Dan Springer discloses.
The case was reopened in 2019, and advancements in forensic technology led to a breakthrough. After analyzing the preserved evidence and utilizing DNA databases, a match was finally made with Paul Hutchinson of Dillon, Montana.
Interviews with Hutchinson in 2024 led to a shocking outcome as he exhibited suspicious behavior and later took his own life. Subsequent DNA tests confirmed that Hutchinson was indeed the perpetrator of the crime.
Despite the closure of the case, Stephanie Houchins remains unsatisfied, criticizing the justice system for the lengthy and challenging journey to find justice for her sister.
“Montanans, Danielle’s story should stir your emotions. It should compel you to protect and honor the women in your lives,” Stephanie emphasizes.
The investigation into Danni’s tragic death might be closed, but authorities are still exploring potential links between Paul Hutchinson and other cold cases.
