Key 2025 Developments
In April 2025, the book Zodiac: The Final Cipher by a retired FBI profiler unveiled never-before-seen police files and witness interviews, sparking intense debate among true crime followers.
While law enforcement has not endorsed its claims, the release has prompted fresh tips to authorities, who are re-examining evidence with modern tools.
Genetic genealogy, successful in cases like the Golden State Killer, is now applied to Zodiac letters and crime scenes. As of mid-2025, no DNA match exists, but experts express optimism for future revelations.
These efforts highlight how 2025's technological strides continue to impact cold cases, drawing renewed media and public scrutiny to the Zodiac mystery.
Emerging Theories and Suspects
Gary Francis Poste, a deceased house painter, remains a polarizing figure in Zodiac theories due to cipher links and physical resemblances noted by independent investigators.
However, the FBI and police have not officially named him a suspect, maintaining skepticism amid unverified claims.
A groundbreaking 2025 theory by amateur sleuth Baber posits one killer behind both the Zodiac murders and the 1947 Black Dahlia killing, implicating surgeon Mark Margolis with breadcrumbs like symbolic ties and alibis.
Retired homicide detective Rick Jackson, with 36 years experience, called the evidence overwhelming circumstantial, though LAPD prioritizes it lowly. The FBI is now reviewing this dual-killer hypothesis.
Ongoing Impact and Legacy
The Zodiac case influences modern forensics and pop culture, inspiring books, films, and amateur investigations that sustain global fascination over 50 years later.
Recent Vallejo Police and FBI efforts, including 2018 GEDmatch attempts, underscore persistent commitment despite caseload challenges.
As 2025 closes, new tips and evidence reviews signal the case is active. Enthusiasts speculate this could be the year of unmasking, blending historical terror with cutting-edge science.