Iowa Teen Believed to be Early Victim of California Serial Killer Identified after 49 Years
Anaheim, Calif. (AP) – After nearly 50 years, an Iowa teenager who is believed to be one of the earliest victims of a notorious California serial killer has been identified. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department in California announced on Tuesday that the teen, previously known only as “John Doe,” has been identified as Michael Ray Schlicht from Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
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According to the authorities, Schlicht was long believed to be an early victim of Randy Kraft, also known as the “Scorecard Killer.” Kraft was convicted in 1989 for the murders of 16 young men in Southern California during the 1970s and 1980s. However, Schlicht’s identity remained a mystery until now.
The breakthrough in the case came after investigators from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation collaborated to re-examine the evidence. Utilizing advancements in forensic technology, they were able to positively identify Schlicht through DNA analysis.
The discovery brings some closure to Schlicht’s family, who have been living with the uncertainty surrounding his disappearance for almost five decades. Officials are now working with the family to return Schlicht’s remains to Iowa for a proper burial.
This breakthrough also highlights the dedicated efforts of law enforcement agencies to solve cold cases using advanced forensic techniques. The identification of Schlicht serves as a reminder that justice can be delayed, but it will not be denied.
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The Orange County Sheriff’s Department and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation continue to urge anyone with information about other potential victims of Randy Kraft or missing persons cases from the 1970s and 1980s to come forward. They believe that there may be more unidentified victims who are waiting to be identified.
The identification of Michael Ray Schlicht brings hope to other families of missing persons who are still searching for answers. As technology advances and cold cases are re-opened, there is renewed optimism that more mysteries will be solved, bringing closure to those left behind.
