Karina Vetrano Update: DNA Samples, Police Tips Under Investigation As Search For Suspect Continues

It has been a little over two months since New York City jogger Karina Vetrano’s body was found dragged off of a local running path. Despite over 180 tips and DNA samples, police have not made an arrest in the murder case, CBS New York reported Monday.

Last month, police arrested a man named Matthew Fox who was found near the murder site in the Howard Beach neighborhood of Queens. The 47-year-old was filthy and naked, yelling about his genitals. At the time of his arrest, Fox was believed to be under the influence of drugs. At one point, he said “the father did it and I have nothing to do with it!" It was unclear what he was referring to. During his time in police custody, Fox agreed to submit DNA.

New York Police Department Chief of Detectives Robert Boyce announced Monday that Fox and the homicide case were still under investigation. “To answer your question about that individual who was clearly in a psychotic moment, his DNA was collected and it was sent down, and that’s where we are,” he told reporters.

Boyce added, “It has not come back yet.” He continued, “Right now, we don’t believe him to be a person of interest.”

Vetrano was reported missing by her father on Aug. 2 after she failed to return home following her evening run. After contacting the police about his missing daughter, a search ensued, resulting in the discovery of her body, which was badly beaten and sexually assaulted.

Boyce said that tips are being investigated. “Each one is being vetted,” he said. “Each one, where appropriate, we take a DNA sample for the person that’s spoken to and we compare it to the (suspect’s).”

Police encourage anyone with information regarding Vetrano’s homicide to call the Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS.