No Bloody Fingerprints Found on Evidence in Bangor Homicide Case

Expert testimony reveals lack of forensic evidence tying accused killer to crime scene

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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In the trial of Gary Brinson, accused of killing Lee Ruona in 2024, a Maine State Police forensic scientist testified that no bloody fingerprints were found on multiple pieces of evidence recovered from Brinson's apartment, including a red cane and several knives. Ruona's DNA was found on various items, but the evidence connecting Brinson to the crime scene was inconclusive.

Why it matters

The lack of direct forensic evidence linking Brinson to the crime scene raises questions about the strength of the prosecution's case and the reliability of the investigation. This could be a key factor in the jury's deliberations and the ultimate outcome of the trial.

The details

Forensic scientist Brian Juengst testified that there was human blood on the evidence items, but no bloody fingerprints tying Brinson to the crime. Senior forensic analyst Christine Waterhouse said Ruona's DNA was found on multiple pieces of evidence, but the DNA evidence connecting Brinson was not a statistical match. Brinson maintained in police interviews that he did not remember anything about stabbing Ruona.

  • The killing of Lee Ruona occurred on December 4, 2024.
  • Brinson's jury trial started on February 25, 2026.

The players

Gary Brinson

A 71-year-old Bangor man accused of killing his drinking buddy, Lee Ruona, in 2024.

Lee Ruona

A 64-year-old man who was killed in Brinson's apartment in 2024.

Brian Juengst

A Maine State Police Crime Lab forensic scientist who testified about the lack of bloody fingerprints on evidence.

Christine Waterhouse

A senior forensic analyst who testified about the DNA evidence found at the crime scene.

Thomas Valente

A Bangor police detective who interviewed Brinson about the killing.

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What they’re saying

“I don't remember anything about stabbing.”

— Gary Brinson (Bangor Daily News)

“We do not mislead people at the Bangor Police Department.”

— Thomas Valente, Bangor Police Detective (Bangor Daily News)

What’s next

Closing arguments in the trial are scheduled for Thursday morning.

The takeaway

The lack of direct forensic evidence linking the accused killer to the crime scene raises reasonable doubt about the prosecution's case and highlights the importance of thorough and unbiased police investigations in ensuring a fair judicial process.