FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — A nearly four-decade-old homicide case in Flagstaff has been reopened and an arrest made, bringing new developments in the 1987 death of a young woman.
On March 23, 2026, the Flagstaff Police Department, in coordination with the Coconino County Attorney’s Office, arrested 62-year-old James Runnels of Glendale on one count of first-degree murder in connection with the death of 24-year-old Ina Langstaff.
Langstaff was found stabbed to death on Nov. 7, 1987, outside her apartment in the 500 block of Tucson Avenue. At the time, investigators conducted numerous interviews, but the case remained unsolved for decades.
Authorities say the investigation remained active over the years, with detectives continuing to review evidence. In 2025, new leads emerged after additional DNA testing was conducted by the Arizona Department of Public Safety’s Northern Regional Crime Laboratory. The results generated new information that ultimately helped move the case forward.
On March 19, 2026, a Coconino County grand jury returned an indictment charging Runnels with first-degree murder.
“Ina’s family has waited nearly four decades for answers,” said Coconino County Attorney Ammon Barker. “Our office, in partnership with the Flagstaff Police Department, has worked diligently to follow the evidence and take this important step toward justice for Ms. Langstaff, her family and our community.”
The County Attorney’s Office Cold Case Unit continues to review unsolved homicide cases using modern forensic technology and investigative techniques in collaboration with law enforcement agencies.
An indictment is a formal charge issued by a grand jury after finding probable cause and initiates criminal proceedings in Coconino County Superior Court. The next step in the process will be an arraignment.
Runnels is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Due to the ongoing nature of the case, prosecutors say they are limited in what information can be released publicly.
The Coconino County Attorney’s Office extended condolences to Langstaff’s family as the case moves forward.
