"You just had the feeling that she belonged to someone," said Masner at a news conference Thursday, when officials announced that murder and kidnapping charges have been filed against a suspect in the case. The case began 15 years ago, when the woman's mummified body was found near the mouth of a canyon in Millard County.

Just two years ago, in 2003, the woman was identified as Patricia Candice Walsh, 24. That break in the investigation ultimately led to Robert Ben Rhoades, a 60-year-old former trucker from Houston, who is currently serving a life sentence in Illinois for the murder of a teenage girl.

Rhoades has been charged with aggravated murder and aggravated kidnapping in Walsh's death and could receive the death penalty.

Masner said Walsh's family, including brother Adam Walsh, who spent time searching the country for his sister until she was identified, is relieved with every positive development in the case.

"You just could tell she came from a good home and that somebody was looking for her," said Masner, who plans to retire in May. "It would make my retiring a good one if we could resolve this."

Capt. John Kimball, who worked on the case with Masner for almost 15 years, said the county is obligated to pursue Rhoades, even though he already is in prison for life.

"A serious crime was committed here, and he needs to pay for what he did," said Kimball. "[Walsh] had more than half her life ahead of her when it was cut short. We're seeking justice for her and her family."

Sheriff Ed Phillips agreed, saying the extradition order was filed last week with Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. to send to the governor of Illinois.

Kimball said Rhoades allegedly killed Walsh's husband, Douglas Scott Zyskowski, 28, in January 1990 near Ozona, Texas, just off Interstate 10. He allegedly killed Walsh in Utah about a week later.

Laurie English, district attorney for several Texas counties, including the one in which Zyskowski was found, would not comment on whether she plans to charge Rhoades with the Zyskowski killing - or will seek extradition from Illinois.

Without discussing specifics - the case has been sealed by a 4th District judge - Millard County Attorney Brent G. Berkley said Thursday he is confident the state can get Rhoades convicted by a jury.

He said the county requested the court documents be sealed to prevent potential jurors in Millard County from being tainted.

The county hopes to bring Rhoades back to Millard County within a month.

mhavnes@sltrib.com