49-Year-Old Mystery Resolved: Iowa Teen Identified as Early Victim of ‘Scorecard Killer’

49-Year-Old Mystery Finally Solved: Iowa Boy Identified as Early Victim of ‘Scorecard Killer’

In a major breakthrough, a 49-year-old mystery has been solved as Michael Ray Schlicht, a teenager from Iowa, has been identified as one of the earliest victims of the notorious ‘Scorecard Killer,’ Randy Kraft. The identification comes almost half a century after Schlicht, who was known only as ‘John Doe’ until recently, was found dead northeast of Laguna Beach, California on September 14, 1974.

Originally, Schlicht’s death was ruled accidental due to alcohol and diazepam intoxication. However, as similar brutal homicides came to light, investigators felt compelled to reclassify it. Kraft, who is currently serving time at San Quentin State Prison, was convicted in 1989 for the merciless murder of 16 men over a ten-year period in Orange County, ending with his arrest in 1983. The now 78-year-old is suspected of being responsible for other killings in California, Oregon, and Michigan.

Kraft earned the moniker ‘Scorecard Killer’ due to his habit of keeping notes about his victims, who were often tortured, sexually assaulted, and mutilated. His capture followed a traffic stop where a strangled U.S. Marine was discovered in his vehicle. Despite the gruesome evidence and his conviction, Kraft has consistently maintained his innocence.

In November 2022, investigators used advanced DNA profiling and genealogy databases to identify Schlicht. The breakthrough came with confirmation through DNA from a woman believed to be his mother in Kansas City, Missouri. This significant development sheds light on a case that has puzzled authorities for nearly 50 years, providing much-needed closure.

The identification of Schlicht is a significant milestone in the ongoing investigation into Kraft’s alleged victims. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department is now treating Schlicht’s case as a homicide and is urging anyone with relevant information to come forward. The department’s renewed commitment to solving this case, combined with the power of modern forensic technology, has finally brought a semblance of justice to Michael Ray Schlicht.