The FBI has released new age-progression images to seek public assistance in locating the suspect accused of a 1983 murder in Boulder, Colorado. More than forty years ago, Sidney Lee Wells, a University of Colorado student, was discovered shot in his apartment. Thayne Alan Smika is accused of his murder and has evaded capture since August 1, 1983.

Background of the Case

On the day of the crime, police found Wells, 22, dead with a gunshot wound to the head in his living room. Wells, a senior studying journalism, was also part of the Navy ROTC program. Smika, a 24-year-old student at that time, quickly became a suspect. However, it wasn’t until October 1986 that authorities located his abandoned car in Beverly Hills, California.

Charges and Searches

In 2010, the Boulder County issued a warrant charging Smika with first-degree murder. Shortly afterward, federal authorities charged him with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. A reward of up to $10,000 is offered for information leading to his arrest.

FBI’s Efforts

An FBI age-progression image illustrates what Smika might look like today either clean-shaven or with facial hair. FBI Denver Special Agent Amanda Koldjeski emphasized the ongoing efforts to secure justice. “The FBI remains steadfast in our efforts to deliver justice for victims’ families,” she noted.

Police Chief Remarks

Boulder Police Chief Steve Redfearn echoed the sentiment, expressing hope that the images would provide leads. He stated, “Fresh investigative leads will help us find Smika and secure justice in this case.”

Current Information

Smika, now 67, may not possess a valid U.S. passport and might have lived in Yelapa, Mexico, before 2007. Anyone with information can contact the Boulder Police tip line or the FBI.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Metro Denver Crime Stoppers.

Brittany Miller, Fox News Digital breaking news writer, has contributed to the coverage of this story.