Donation Doubles Reward in Homicide Case to $10,000

ARLINGTON, VA

The Arlington County Police Department today announced a substantial increase in the reward offered in an unsolved homicide case. The Harris Teeter food market chain has pledged to match the $5,000 raised by family, friends, and neighbors of the 24 year old victim, Paul Zeller.

“Harris Teeter would like to offer a $5,000 reward in addition to the reward set by the Zeller family and friends,” said Jennifer Panetta, Director of Communication for Harris Teeter. “It is our hope the reward will entice someone to share information that will aid the Arlington Police in their efforts to find those responsible for this tragic crime.”

Mr. Zeller, a veteran of the Iraq war, was shot and killed on June 30, 2006, while walking near the Pentagon Row shopping center in the Aurora Highlands neighborhood. Detectives continue to actively investigate the crime and they hope the increased reward will help generate new leads.

“This is a very generous, unsolicited donation from Harris Teeter,” said Lieutenant Brian Berke, Supervisor of the Homicide/Robbery Unit. “They want to help us close this case and provide some closure for the Zeller family. Hopefully the money will convince someone who knows who did this to come forward.”

Anyone who has any information that could assist detectives is asked to call the police tip line at 703-228-4242. If callers wish to remain anonymous, they can call Crime Solvers at 1-866- 411-TIPS (8477). Crime Solvers offers a separate reward of up to $1000 for information that leads to an arrest. Callers to Crime Solvers do not have to give their names and do not need to testify in court.