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The IHIA is pleased to share an upcoming opportunity that may be of interest to investigators, analysts, and law enforcement professionals.

On Tuesday, June 16, from 1:00–2:00 p.m. Eastern, Morgan Wright, CEO and Founder of Sentinel One Consulting, will host a live podcast discussion with Timothy Ferguson of the FBI CJIS Division.

The conversation will focus on the National Data Exchange (N-DEx) and the expanding capabilities available to investigators through the platform. Attendees will learn how law enforcement agencies can leverage new tools and resources to enhance investigations, improve information sharing, and generate investigative leads.

In addition to discussing current N-DEx capabilities, Morgan will also provide insight into the future of criminal investigations, including advancements in artificial intelligence, structured prompting, and the next generation of HOLMES.

This is an excellent opportunity for investigators to stay informed about evolving investigative tools and the future of technology in law enforcement.

Registration is required. We encourage IHIA members to take advantage of this informative session and learn how these advancements may support their investigative efforts.

The International Homicide Investigators Association (IHIA) is proud to share the latest episode of the Flint to Flame Interview Series, featuring an insightful conversation between IHIA Director of Training Operations Dave Eddy and Detective Sergeant Matt Ingrouille of the Major Crime Section with the Saskatoon Police Service.

In this episode, Dave and Matt explore the often-unseen realities of homicide and major crime investigations, discussing the profound connection between trauma and criminal behavior, the cumulative effects of compassion fatigue, and the challenges investigators face while navigating increasingly complex cases.

Throughout the conversation, Detective Sergeant Ingrouille provides thoughtful perspectives on how trauma impacts victims, offenders, families, and investigators alike. Drawing from his extensive experience in major crime investigations, he highlights the importance of understanding the human factors behind criminal behavior while maintaining the professionalism and objectivity required of investigators.

The discussion also addresses the growing recognition of investigator wellness within law enforcement. Topics such as secondary trauma, emotional resilience, organizational support, and the long-term impact of exposure to violence are examined through the lens of real-world investigative work. As agencies continue to evolve in their understanding of officer wellness, conversations like these help advance meaningful dialogue about supporting those tasked with investigating society's most serious crimes.

While the challenges are significant, the episode also emphasizes resilience, adaptability, and the value of fostering a culture that encourages growth, learning, and peer support. Investigators are reminded that effective policing requires not only strong investigative skills, but also an understanding of the emotional and psychological demands that accompany the profession.

About the Flint to Flame Interview Series

The Flint to Flame Interview Series is presented by the International Homicide Investigators Association and features conversations with investigators, leaders, educators, and professionals from across the public safety community.

The series is built on a simple but powerful idea: a single flint stone does not spark until it connects with another. In the same way, meaningful connections between professionals create opportunities for collaboration, innovation, leadership, and professional development. Through these conversations, Flint to Flame seeks to share knowledge, experiences, and lessons learned from those working on the front lines of public safety.

By bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise, the series helps strengthen the investigative profession while fostering the exchange of ideas that ultimately benefit investigators, agencies, victims, and communities.

Watch or Listen to the Episode

We invite IHIA members, investigators, public safety professionals, and anyone interested in the realities of criminal investigations to experience this compelling discussion.

Flint to Flame Interview Series: Trauma, Resilience, & Investigative Burden

Watch on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28Nv7wV2Ir0&t=53s

Prefer to listen on the go? The Flint to Flame Interview Series is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, making it easy to learn from industry leaders and investigative professionals wherever your work takes you.

Be sure to subscribe to your preferred platform and follow the IHIA for future episodes, training opportunities, and professional development resources.

From April 13–15, 2026, the International Homicide Investigators Association, in collaboration with the Texas Attorney General’s Office – Cold Case and Missing Persons Unit, welcomed investigators, prosecutors, and forensic professionals from across the country to San Antonio, Texas for the 2nd Annual Cold Case Conference.

Hosted at the Jack Guenther Pavilion at the Briscoe Museum, this three-day event brought together some of the most dedicated minds in the field, all focused on one shared mission: advancing cold case investigations and seeking justice for victims and their families.

Collaboration, Innovation, and Real-World Impact

Throughout the conference, attendees participated in a series of expert-led presentations covering critical aspects of cold case work. Topics ranged from investigative genetic genealogy and digital forensics to science-based interviewing, case funding strategies, and evolving laboratory capabilities. Each session emphasized not only the technical advancements shaping modern investigations, but also the importance of collaboration, persistence, and a willingness to revisit cases with fresh perspectives and new tools.

One of the most powerful elements of the conference was the opportunity for professionals to connect, share experiences, and strengthen relationships that extend far beyond the classroom. These connections are often what move cases forward.

Spotlight on the Yogurt Shop Murders

A standout moment from the conference was the detailed case study on the 1991 Austin Yogurt Shop Murders, a case that has remained one of the most complex and widely discussed investigations in Texas history.

During the conference, investigators, family members, and experts broke down the case, offering insight into both the challenges and breakthroughs that have shaped the investigation over the decades. The case, which involved the tragic murder of four teenage girls, has seen renewed attention in recent years due to advances in DNA analysis and forensic technology, underscoring how modern science can breathe new life into long-standing cases.

We extend our sincere thanks to KXAN and their team for attending the conference, capturing this important content, and helping bring national attention to the ongoing work being done in the cold case community.

Strengthening the Future of Cold Case Investigations

Beyond the presentations, the conference served as a reminder of the critical role continued training and professional development play in solving cases. As technology evolves and investigative techniques advance, staying current is not optional, it is essential.

The IHIA remains committed to providing high-quality, practical training designed to equip professionals with the tools, knowledge, and network they need to make progress on even the most challenging cases.

We extend our sincere thanks to the vendors and sponsors who joined us and continue to support this important work—GEDmatch, DNA Labs International, Bode Technology, Othram, Cybergenetics, and Signature Science. A special thank you to DNA Labs International for sponsoring Monday night’s social networking event, which provided a valuable opportunity for attendees to connect, collaborate, and strengthen professional relationships.

Continue the Work with IHIA

If you were unable to attend this year’s Cold Case Conference, there are many opportunities ahead to get involved.

The IHIA offers a wide range of training courses throughout the year, covering topics such as homicide investigations, officer-involved critical incidents, and advanced cold case techniques. These courses are designed for investigators at all levels and provide real-world, applicable knowledge that can be immediately brought back to your agency.

In addition, becoming a member of the IHIA connects you to a global network of professionals dedicated to solving cases and supporting one another in this work. Members gain access to valuable resources, training opportunities, and a professional community that understands the complexity and importance of this field.

Moving Forward, Together

The success of the 2nd Annual Cold Case Conference is a testament to the dedication of those working tirelessly to bring resolution to unsolved cases. Each conversation, each presentation, and each connection made during these three days contributes to a larger mission, one that extends far beyond San Antonio.

Together, through collaboration and continued commitment, we move closer to answers, accountability, and justice.

To learn more about upcoming IHIA trainings or to become a member, visit ihia.org.

The International Homicide Investigators Association (IHIA) is proud to release its 2025 Annual Report—highlighting a year of continued growth, training, and a strengthened global network of investigative professionals.

In 2025, IHIA delivered meaningful impact across the field of homicide and death investigations. Over the course of the year, the organization:

• Trained 2,154 investigators through 26 courses
• Reached agencies across 47 U.S. states and 23 countries
• Awarded 144 scholarships, helping expand access to critical training
• Grew to 3,493 members worldwide

These numbers represent more than growth; they reflect investigators better equipped to solve cases, support victims’ families, and strengthen their agencies.

A major highlight of the year was the 31st Annual Training Symposium in Louisville, Kentucky, which brought together professionals from across the country for a week of high-level training.

IHIA also continued to expand its training programs, outreach, and partnerships, ensuring investigators have access to the tools, education, and professional network needed to meet the evolving challenges of this work.

As we move through 2026, IHIA remains focused on the mission.
The full 2025 Annual Report provides a deeper look at IHIA’s training programs, partnerships, growth, and future direction.

We invite you to take a few minutes to review the report and see the collective impact of this work.

View the 2025 IHIA Annual Report

View PDF