In a significant development, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna announced on Tuesday that convicted serial killer William Lester Suff, also known as the Riverside Prostitute Killer and the Lake Elsinore Killer, is responsible for the 1986 murder of Cathy Small, a 19-year-old woman from Lake Elsinore. This revelation brings to light the identity of Small's killer, who had remained elusive for decades.

Small's lifeless body, bearing signs of stabbing and strangulation, was found in the middle of the 800 block of Bank Street in South Pasadena in 1986. Despite extensive investigations, her murderer had never been apprehended - until now.

During a morning press conference, Sheriff Luna unveiled that Suff, now aged 73, is the individual behind this heinous crime. Suff is currently serving life imprisonment on death row for the murders of twelve other women between the 1980s and early 1990s.

L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger expressed her deep concern over the tragic circumstances surrounding Cathy Small's murder. "It is horrifying that her life was taken away so violently and in such a tragic way," she stated.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department acknowledged that the case had left an indelible mark on the community, haunting them for years. However, they emphasized their unwavering commitment to seeking justice for Cathy and her family.

"Although almost four decades have passed, law enforcement never gave up on this case," Supervisor Barger declared. She further expressed her gratitude to all those involved in the investigation, including the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, the South Pasadena Police Department, and other agencies that contributed to solving this long-standing mystery.

Suff's conviction as Cathy Small's killer marks another step towards justice for victims of his heinous crimes. The revelation also serves as a reminder of the relentless pursuit of truth by law enforcement agencies, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges.