The sister of a slain Georgia woman testified Thursday that her father, known as the “Flint River Killer,” had nothing to do with her murder.
Christopher Wolfenbarger is currently on trial in Atlanta for the murder of his wife, Melissa Wolfenbarger, a 21-year-old mother of two. He’s facing murder and felony murder charges.
As CrimeOnline previously reported, Melissa vanished in December 1998. She had reportedly been living with defendant in Georgia, although they were separated, following domestic abuse allegations.
In 1999, Melissa’s dismembered remains were found behind and around the defendant’s former workplace in Atlanta.
The remains were officially identified in 2003 and Christopher was indicted last year.
Melissa’s sister, Tina Patton, took the stand Thursday and spoke fondly of her father, Carl Patton, insisting that he had nothing to do with Melissa’s death.
Carl Patton was previously cleared as a suspect.
“There was no way it had anything to do with my dad,” Patton testified. “Actually, I took offense to it.”
During cross-examination, the defense questioned Patton about an incident involving the defendant, in which he allegedly claimed he could dispose of a body.
“All of a sudden, Chris pops off with, ‘I know how to get rid of a body if I need to,’” Patton testified.
The defense countered by questioning the defendant’s time spent working as a roofer with Carl Patton.
Defense: “Didn’t you just tell us that Christopher used to work and spend the day on the roof with your father?”
Patton: “And?”
Defense: “And your father was convicted of murders he committed back in the 1970s?”
Patton: “So? My dad never said anything like that.”
Defense: “How do you know? Were you on the roof with Chris?”
Patton: “My dad would never say anything like that.”
Wolfenbarger has pleaded not guilty.
The trial continues. Check back for updates.
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