OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) -- — A cold case suspect is in court for the first time, formally charged with murder.
Douglas County Court Judge Darryl Lowe sets bond at $850,000 – 10% for Christopher Martin, 51, in the murder of Todd Schumacher.
Authorities say on Dec. 5, 2000, Martin shot Schumacher multiple times outside his home near 29th & Q Streets when he returned from work.
Martin was initially a suspect in the case, but prosecutors say they couldn’t prove it.
Advances in technology allowed them to retest DNA samples taken from the scene, and they say it matched Martin.
"There was a history of some accusations about problems between the neighbors, either somebody taking something from somebody or just a history of bad blood," said Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine.
Authorities wouldn't say what DNA was tested, but they also say gunshot residue testing on Martin's clothing turned up positive.
Martin's defense argued he's cooperated with investigators and he denies being involved in the murder.
If convicted, he faces life in prison.
