What significant case is known as the first homicide solved by fingerprint evidence?

The Rojas Murder Case is recognized as the first homicide solved by fingerprint evidence, making it a landmark case in the history of forensic science. In 1904, a man named Jose Rojas was found murdered in his home in Argentina. Investigators discovered fingerprint impressions at the crime scene, which were linked to an individual named Francisco Rojas, Jose's cousin. This case demonstrated the reliability and potential of fingerprint analysis in criminal investigations, leading to its broader acceptance and use in law enforcement.

The significance of the Rojas case lies not only in its outcome but also in how it set a precedent for the use of fingerprints as a critical tool in identifying suspects and solving crimes. It highlighted the importance of preserving and analyzing latent prints found at crime scenes, which would ultimately evolve into a fundamental aspect of forensic investigations worldwide.