Search Warrants Unsealed In Saltsburg Triple Slaying

Authorities suggest whoever killed three women at a Loyalhanna Township auto glass shop may have hid evidence at a relative's nearby farm.

Eighty-one-year-old Edith Tietge, her sister, Doris Lee Murphy, and Murphy's daughter were found shot to death April 23 inside Ferguson Glass in Saltsburg, about 30 miles east of Pittsburgh.

According to warrants unsealed Tuesday and obtained by Channel 11 News, a two-day search of the glass business revealed the following evidence: • at least 7 blood stains • a .22 caliber revolver found hidden in a machine in the business • a .22 caliber cartridge • a cellular telephone • two computers

The gun was believed to have been taken there by the business owner, Kevin Murphy, who was at Roy Martin's home close to the time of the call, according to the warrant.

Police asked to search Martin's home because, according to the affadavit, "Murphy would have had access to the Martin property and may have caused evidence to be transferred onto Martin's property."

The search of Roy Martin's house revealed a .22 caliber rifle and ammunition, although nothing in the search warrant indicates a direct connection to the murders.

The last search warrant calls for a DNA and trace evidence search of Kevin Murphy, and the documents obtained by Channel 11 show that one vial of blood was taken, along with articles of clothing, and a cell phone.

Police won't say if Murphy is a suspect, but they've taken his blood and clothing to compare with other evidence.

In May, the coroner said he wouldn't release autopsy results on the three slain women because authorities were concerned releasing the information could hurt their investigation.

Previous Stories: May 8, 2009: Coroner Withholding Results In Saltsburg Triple Slaying April 28, 2009: Visitation Held For 3 Women Found Dead In Loyalhanna Factory April 27, 2009: No Arrest Made In Shooting Deaths Of 3 Loyalhanna Women