Suspect charged in 1989 cold case death of Michigan mother of 5

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, Mich. (TCN) — Authorities recently charged a man on suspicion of killing a 41-year-old mother of five more than 35 years ago.

According to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office, on April 27, 1989, the body of Linda Meteer was found in Hossier Valley, and officials determined she died of homicidal violence. Despite investigators’ efforts, they were unable to identify a suspect in her death at the time.

In a press conference, Sheriff Michael Shea announced a charge of open murder against 63-year-old Steven Koon on Feb. 19. If convicted, he faces a potential life sentence.

A task force was reportedly created early on and Koon was a person of interest in 1989. Investigators renewed their efforts in 2024 and consulted with multiple experts. Through collaborative efforts among many officials, the sheriff’s office said they were able to narrow down Koon as the primary suspect and arrest him.

According to the sheriff’s office, investigators believe the suspect and victim met through a casual encounter.

Authorities said it was an “emotional roller coaster” speaking with the victim’s family members following Koon’s arrest.

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