Bellaire Police Chief Mike Kovalyk refuted reports Wednesday that two suspects in the murder of a 92-year-old West Bellaire woman are in jail on unrelated charges.
"There is absolutely no truth to that," Kovalyk said of the report by other media. "No truth at all."
He did, however, say the case is progressing.
"There are some things coming together," he noted while declining to go into details. "Not all of the lab work is back, and we are still submitting evidence to the crime lab."
When asked if he expects arrests in the near future, the chief said, "I'd like to think so, but it all depends."
Lydia Ashworth was found murdered in her home on Fourth Avenue in late June. However, authorities haven't released how she was killed or what type of weapon, or weapons, may have been used in the crime.
"The killing of a 92-year-old lady hits home with a lot of people in this area," Kovalyk added. "Anyone connected - directly or indirectly - with the person, or persons, responsible for this crime should do the right thing and come forward."
According to Kovalyk, the original $5,000 reward offered by the Forest Hills Community Association has nearly doubled.
"After conferring with Roseann Lofton of Belmont Savings Bank in Bellaire, I was informed that donations continue to come in as the people of Bellaire come together to assist the police department in solving this brutal crime," he said.
Kovalyk said his department has received numerous communications with vital information and is asking for anyone with additional information to contact his department at 740-676-3322.
