“Even better, they’re also sending additional staff, including their new eDNA expert, Dr. Andi Clarke. She’s pioneering a study on pulling DNA from the air, and we might be able to get Fowler’s DNA from Megan’s car that way.”
“Say what?” Reid blinked a few times. “DNA from the air?”
“Yeah, sounds unbelievable, right? A Sci-fi kind of thing, but I guess it’s possible tocollect human DNA from the air, sequence it, and match it to a specific person.”
“Never heard of such a thing.”
“eDNA or environmental DNA, falls under a new area of DNA study as far as criminal forensics go. If Fowler was in the vehicle for any amount of time, they believe they can recover his DNA.”
“That’s great. Should put a smile on Megan’s face.”
“So will the fact that I got Gleason to authorize Veritas to share their findings with us.”
Interesting. Shocking, really.“What did you have to do to make that happen?”
“I’ll be providing a few training workshops for his team.” Russ’s sullen tone said what he thought about having to make such a sacrifice.
“Sorry about that, but thanks.”
“Oh, you’ll owe me, bro. Big time.” Russ chuckled.
“But they’re still not willing to put a protective detail on Megan.”
“Willing, yes,” Russ said. “No staff. Which I can understand. Besides he knows you and our team are taking watch.”
“I wish I didn’t understand,” Reid said. “But I do.”
“If we can only get some actual evidence that Fowler is behind the bombing, I know Gleason will reconsider. That DNA from thin air might do the trick.”
Reid’s phone signaled a call from Devan. “Got a call coming in. Catch you later.” He accepted the call.
The background was filled with loud voices and a television. “I’m texting you a PJ’s bartender’s name.”
“You found the location Fowler met his friend?” Reid’s hope climbed higher.
“You ask. I deliver.” Devan chuckled. “Had to go to all five locations before I learned where they’d met, but I did. They’re gone now, but I’ll text the location address too.”
“I’ll try to get Russ over there.”
“Glad to wait here for him if you want me to. In case the dude comes back.”
Reid appreciated his team member always thinking ahead. “Thanks, man. Hang tight, and I’ll text Russ’s arrival time.”
Reid ended the call and tapped his brother’s name.
“I’ve never felt so wanted.” Russ laughed.
Reid told him about the bartender.
“I assume you’re going to the bar. You can go alone, or I’ll go with you if you want. You know. Put the fear of the law in her.”
Reid couldn’t believe his luck. He didn’t even have to ask Russ to go to the bar. “Sounds good.”
“One thing,” Russ said. “I’m driving, and that’s not up for discussion. No pulling the older brother card.”
“Wouldn’t think of arguing.”
“Hah!” Russ ended the call.
