For the first time in nearly 30 years, John Ramsey, the father of JonBenét Ramsey, feels a glimmer of hope about his daughter’s unsolved murder. The 6-year-old beauty queen was tragically killed in her Boulder, Colorado, home on December 26, 1996, and the case has remained one of the most infamous cold cases in U.S. history.

Ramsey recently met with local law enforcement to advocate for new DNA testing using genetic genealogy, a technology that’s cracked several high-profile cases in recent years. Following the meeting, Ramsey shared that he’s “very satisfied and impressed” with the leadership at the Boulder Police Department and believes they’re committed to solving the case.

“DNA is a significant tool which I also believe has a high probability of identifying the killer,” Ramsey told CNN. He’s been pushing for years to have untested evidence examined, hoping it could finally lead to answers.

The case took a dark turn early on when John and his late wife, Patsy, were wrongly accused of involvement in their daughter’s death. In 2008, new DNA evidence exonerated the family, but the killer has never been found. Ramsey insists the Boulder police mishandled the investigation in its early stages, but he’s optimistic about the current leadership under Chief Stephen Redfearn.

Redfearn, in a November statement, denied claims that evidence was being ignored, saying the department is actively working with federal and state partners on the case.

JonBenét’s murder has puzzled investigators and the public alike. A ransom note was found in the home, but her body was discovered in the basement, suggesting a staged crime scene. The coroner determined she died from suffocation and a severe skull fracture.

Now 81, Ramsey says he wants closure for his family, especially his five grandchildren. “This cloud needs to be removed,” he said. “We need to close this chapter.”

Ramsey is urging anyone with information to come forward, adding, “Please help us. I’m not vindictive. I just want an answer.”

The case continues to capture national attention, with Ramsey hoping it will prompt someone to step forward with the key to solving the mystery.