Discarded trash uncaps 41-year-old murder case in ritzy seaside resort town, authorities say

After sitting cold for more than 40 years, a Rhode Island murder case may have been solved with the recovery of a discarded water bottle in a theater.

On Oct.

6, William "Billy" Morton was arrested and charged with first-degree murder for allegedly killing Hillary Hellewell in Newport in 1985.

After four decades, investigators used new DNA technology that allegedly links 61-year-old Morton to the crime.

DNA BREAKTHROUGH LEADS TO ARREST IN GRISLY 33-YEAR-OLD COLD CASE INVESTIGATORS NEVER GAVE UP ON Since her death, investigators had slowly uncovered clues that suggested Morton might be a suspect.

But they needed some of his DNA to confirm the connection.

So in late August, an investigator followed Morton to a Heart tribute band concert at a Rhode Island theater, court records show.

FIANCÉE STICKS BY ACCUSED SERIAL RAPIST AS SPECIAL AGENTS DEFEND TAILING HIM FOR RESTAURANT DNA STAKEOUT Morton bought popcorn and bottled water for himself and his fiancee, investigators said.

But when the couple left the concert early and Morton didn’t pick up his trash, an investigator collected it as potential evidence.

DNA recovered from his water bottle was used to confirm the match to DNA found on Hellewell’s body, according to court documents.

COVERT DNA SAMPLE FROM COLORADO MAN'S TRASH REVIVES 44-YEAR-OLD TEXAS MURDER CASE: REPORT Morton was taken into custody on Oct.

6.

He is being held without bond.

On May 19, 1985, the body of 22-year-old Hellewell was found in Newport, Rhode Island by two brothers – 17 and 20 – who were on their way to work at 4:15 a.m.