North Dakota woman accused of fatally stabbing college roommate in their off-campus apartment almost 15 years ago

The former roommate of a North Dakota college coed found fatally stabbed to death nearly 15 years ago is now accused of her murder, authorities said.

On March 16, Minot police announced at a press conference they had arrested 34-year-old Nichole Rice without incident while she was at her job at an area Air Force base in connection to the murder of Anita Knutson, a Minot State University student.

“Although most of the detectives who worked the original scene and investigation have retired, we have not forgotten about this case,” Minot Police Chief John Klug said.

On June 4, 2007, Gordon Knutson drove to his daughter's off-campus apartment after he became concerned because he hadn’t heard from her, NBC News reported.

Anita Knutson’s car was outside her apartment, which was locked. Gordon Knutson discovered the 18-year-old’s body in her bedroom after the building’s manager let him into the residence. She had been stabbed multiple times.

A knife believed to be the murder weapon was found in a sink. A slashed screen was located on the ground outside the victim’s room. Nothing was missing from the residence, according to police.

Chief Klug noted Rice was always considered a person of interest in the case, but he did not provide a possible motive for the stabbing or further details.

Rice was booked into the Ward County jail on a murder charge.

“My heart goes out to the family,” Klug said. “I wish we could have solved this sooner but at the same time I'm glad to say that we have the person responsible for the murder of Anita Knutson in custody.”