In 1994, Robin Lawrence was murdered by an intruder with violence on his mind. But Robin fought back. In her final moments, she clawed at her attacker, leaving behind critical DNA evidence that would one day help identify her killer. What investigators didn’t know then was that justice would take decades. Through persistent police work, advances in forensic science, and the dedication of a volunteer genetic genealogist determined to give Robin’s family answers, the case was finally solved. And when the suspect was confronted, a guilty conscience did the rest. Join Margot as she walks you through the long-awaited resolution of the cold case murder of Robin Lawrence, and the eventual identification of her killer, Stephan Smerk, a former soldier assigned to Fort Myer–Henderson Hall in Arlington, Virginia. ⸻ 🎧Did you know you could listen to this episode ad-free? Join the True Crime Army Club! Visit patreon.com/militarymurder to view the current membership options! ⸻ Check out today’s sponsor! Quince: Visit quince.com/militarymama for free shipping and 365 day returns! Gusto: Visit gusto.com/MMP for 3 free months of payroll! ⸻ Military Murder is a military true crime podcast that focuses on murders committed by military members, veterans, and sometimes their family members. ⸻ Don’t miss out on all things Mama Margot & Military Murder Podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mamamargot TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@militarymargot Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/militarymurderpodcast Facebook Group: https://facebook.com/groups/militarytruecrime Want to advertise on the show? Email info@truenativemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices