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Officials in Aliso Viejo, California, have recently identified a homicide victim who was found near a fire road trail 49 years ago. Through the use of investigative genetic genealogy, authorities were able to determine the victim’s identity, marking a significant breakthrough in a long-standing cold case.
On September 14, 1974, two individuals stumbled upon the man’s body while off-roading. At the time, authorities believed his death to be accidental, resulting from alcohol and diazepam intoxication. The victim, who was classified as a John Doe, was estimated to be between 18 and 25 years old.
Despite efforts to identify the victim, including sharing information with various law enforcement agencies, no leads were found. The victim was ultimately buried as John Doe at El Toro Memorial Park.
Years later, it was discovered that several individuals had died from alcohol and diazepam intoxication in Southern California around the same time, with their deaths classified as homicides. This led investigators to suspect that the unidentified victim may have been one of the early victims of Randy Steven Kraft, also known as the “Scorecard Killer.”
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In 1983, Kraft was stopped by a California Highway Patrol officer, who discovered a deceased male in his car. Kraft was eventually convicted of killing 16 people and is currently on death row at San Quentin State Prison.
In November 2022, investigators submitted tissue samples from the John Doe to Othram Laboratories for DNA analysis. Through the creation of a DNA profile and genealogy research, the victim was identified as Michael Schlicht from Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Authorities have notified the victim’s family and are working on marking Schlicht’s gravestone.
This breakthrough in identifying the victim after nearly five decades demonstrates the power of advancements in genetic genealogy and the dedication of law enforcement agencies to bring closure to cold cases. It also highlights the ongoing efforts to solve crimes and provide justice for victims and their families.
