After nearly three decades, the brutal 1997 murder of Gerthie Carolina, an 81-year-old widow from Sasakwa, Oklahoma, has been solved. Authorities arrested Carolyn Foreman, 81, and Dakota Davis, 45, both relatives of the victim, after new forensic evidence linked them to the crime.
On August 11, 1997, Carolina—known affectionately as “Granny”—was found hacked to death on her kitchen floor. She had suffered multiple stab wounds and blunt-force trauma, likely from an axe or machete. At the time, the case went cold due to a lack of solid leads.
🔹 A Break in the Case
In 2023, Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) agents reexamined evidence, focusing on a bloodstain found on a shoe collected from the crime scene in 1997. Testing in 2024 confirmed the blood belonged to Carolina, directly linking Dakota Davis to the murder.
Investigators also revisited witness testimonies, including one where Davis allegedly admitted to “chopping up” the victim while Foreman encouraged her to “hit her again.”
🔹 Motive: Inheritance & Quick Money
Authorities believe Carolina’s $40,000 certificate of deposit (CD) and estate were the primary motives. Carolina had named Foreman as the sole beneficiary of her will just months before her murder. Days after her death, Foreman cashed out the CD, raising suspicions.
🔹 Arrests & Charges
Based on new forensic evidence and past interviews, arrest warrants were issued.
Carolyn Foreman was arrested in Midwest City, Oklahoma
Dakota Davis was arrested in Sacramento, California
Both women now face charges of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
🔹 Justice After 27 Years
Prosecutors praised the dedication of investigators, stating:
“This case proves our commitment to justice—no matter how long it takes. We hope this brings peace to Gerthie Carolina’s family.”
The arrests mark the end of a 27-year mystery and a major victory for cold case investigations.
