Updated: Wed Nov. 04 2009 18:11:15

ctvedmonton.ca

Police arrested and charged a 41-year-old B.C. man in connection with the 1987 homicide of a 83-year-old Edmonton woman.

Charles William Abou has been charged with second-degree murder along with break and enter and commit. 

Lillian Berube was beaten when she confronted an intruder in her home at 11630 - 90 Street on August 27, 1987. The woman was found beaten by a neighbour the day after the attack. She died in hospital six days later.

Police said Berube fought the long-haired intruder who left behind a clump of hair and an earring.

Police said recent advances in DNA testing helped make a break in the case.

"We diligently pursue these things, we do not forget. I can tell you that the initial investigators that were originally involved in 1987 have not forgotten this case," said Det. Brad Mandrusiak with the Edmonton police homicide unit.

Mandrusiak said homicide detective Howie Antoniak who was a constable on the case back in 1987, was able to deliver the news to Berube's family.

"It was a long time coming and the family members were very very happy, very gracious," said Mandrusiak.

Abou is now at the Edmonton Remand Centre and will appear in an Edmonton courtroom on Nov. 5th.

With files from CTV's Erin Isfeld