Overview of MURDERED: Nori Amaya
This episode of Crime Junkie investigates the unsolved 2009 murder of Nori Amaya, a well-known salsa dancer and restaurateur in Washington, D.C. What initially looked like a straightforward case quickly became complicated by Halloween crowds, limited forensic evidence, and a suspect pool made up largely of people close to her. Investigators believe Nori was likely sexually assaulted and strangled in her apartment, but despite DNA evidence and extensive interviews, the case remains open.
What Happened to Nori Amaya
Nori Amaya was last seen alive on Halloween night, 2009, after a long night out dancing around D.C.
Timeline of Events
- Nori spent the evening at Roomba Cafe, the club owned by her boyfriend, Gustavo.
- She was visibly upset about their relationship and had recently learned he was married.
- She later went to other clubs, including Bravo Bravo, where she wanted to leave quickly and appeared to be crying.
- A dance partner put her in a cab around 1:45 a.m.
- Her brother Carlos later found her body in her apartment after she failed to show up for work or answer calls.
Crime Scene Details
- Nori was found in her bed, partially covered by a comforter.
- She had bruising and injuries consistent with a violent struggle.
- Investigators determined she was strangled with a thin ligature.
- Evidence suggested possible sexual assault.
- Her apartment was locked and showed no signs of forced entry, which initially made the case seem like it might involve someone she knew.
Evidence and Investigation
Police had access to surveillance footage from Nori’s building and traced her movements throughout the night, but Halloween costumes and masks made identification difficult.
Key Forensic Findings
- Touch DNA from an unidentified male was recovered from Nori’s body.
- The DNA profile was entered into CODIS, but there were no matches.
- Her fingernails had been cut down, and no useful nail evidence remained.
- No semen was recovered.
- The weapon used for strangulation was never identified.
The Missing Camera
One of the biggest mysteries in the case is Nori’s small red digital camera:
- Family members say she always carried it.
- The camera was not found in her apartment.
- Police believe it may have been taken by the killer.
- Investigators think it may have contained photos that could identify who was with Nori that night or reveal something the killer wanted hidden.
Main People Investigated
Gustavo
Nori’s boyfriend and the owner of Roomba Cafe:
- Married during the affair, though he claimed the marriage was effectively over.
- His wife allegedly called Nori weeks before the murder.
- He had an alibi that placed him with friends and later home asleep.
- His DNA did not match the evidence.
David
A longtime friend of Nori’s who became a major person of interest:
- He was close to Nori and had access to her world, including her apartment.
- He gave inconsistent explanations about his whereabouts.
- Police believed he may have known more than he admitted.
- Photos allegedly existed of David and another man, Eric, together on Nori’s camera or computer.
- His DNA also did not match.
Gustavo’s Employee
- One employee left for Argentina after Nori’s murder, which raised suspicion.
- Investigators secretly obtained his DNA in Argentina.
- His DNA did not match either.
Other Leads
- A diplomat Nori reportedly confronted on David’s behalf was also mentioned late in the reporting.
- It’s unclear how much investigators were able to confirm about him.
Important Takeaways
- The case appears personal, not random.
- Investigators believe the killer likely knew Nori or had access to her building.
- The lack of forced entry may not be as meaningful as it first seemed, since an exterminator entered the apartment later and could have locked the door behind him.
- The most significant physical evidence is the unidentified male DNA, but it has not yet produced a match.
Where the Case Stands Now
After 16 years, Nori’s murder remains unsolved. Her family, especially Carlos and Liz, continue pushing for answers:
- Carlos spent years chasing leads and helping with the investigation.
- Liz pursued criminal justice and forensics, inspired in part by Nori’s case.
- Detectives believe someone in Nori’s circle still knows more than they’ve said.
Call for Tips
The episode strongly encourages anyone who:
- Was at Roomba Cafe, Russia House, or Bravo Bravo on Halloween 2009
- Lived or worked at the Woodner apartment building
- Has photos, videos, or memories from that night
to come forward with information.
Tip line: 202-727-9099
Email: tips@audiochuck.com