20 years after the body of a 32-year-old Cheyenne woman was found in Colorado, officials with the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation say they are continuing to work the case.

They are also hoping people with information on the homicide will come forward. That's according to a Wednesday DCI news release.

According to the release, on Feb. 8, 2003, the body of 32-year-old Shawny Lee Smith was found near Highway 85 in Weld County just 1/4 mile from the Wyoming state line.

According to the DCI 'Cold Cases" website, Smith had been beaten and raped.

The release says investigators determined that Smith was the victim of a homicide either late on the night of Feb. 6 or early on Feb. 7.

She was last seen at the Cowboy South Bar at 317 South Greeley Highway. The location is now home to the Outlaw Saloon.

The release says investigators are still trying to crack the case, adding:

Shawny’s death left behind grieving family and friends, including her two children, who have been without answers for two decades. Unfortunately, Shawny’s mother passed away without ever knowing what happened to her daughter. Today, we are asking for the public’s help in finding those answers.

The release says people may have information about the killing and have not come forward, either because they didn't think it was significant to the case or because of concerns for their own safety. But the release says

Relationships and loyalties can change, as do people and their perspectives. No matter the circumstances, it is not too late to come forward and help give Shawny’s family and friends the answers they deserve.

The release asks anyone with information on the case to come forward, adding they can remain anonymous. People with information can call the DCI at 307-777-7181 or the Laramie County Sheriff's Office at 307-633-4700.

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