(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Police in North Aurora say they have solved a young woman's murder from decades ago.
North Aurora Police say advanced DNA technology shows that serial killer Bruce Lindahl murdered 19-year-old Kathy Halle, whose body was discovered in the Fox River in April 1979.
“The evidence that was obtained and then eventually identified through DNA evidence was also thoroughly reviewed by my office because this is not typical of how we would work DNA because this is ever evolving technology,” Kane County State's Attorney Jamie Mosser said at a press conference on Wednesday.
“We found that, that science was good, that it did in fact show that the DNA that was found on Kathy's clothing belonged to Bruce Lindahl. As such, had he not killed himself while in a murder, we would have authorized first degree murder charges.”
Police also say DNA evidence linking Lindahl to the 1976 murder of 16-year-old Pamela Maurer, in Lisle was also key in the case.
“I know this was not easy for the Holly family and I sincerely hope that the news of the closure of the case can bring them a sense of peace,” North Aurora Police Chief Joe Deleo said.
Lindahl targeted mostly female victims in Chicago’s western suburbs in the late 1970s. He is believed to have killed as many as a dozen women and girls.
“To see the department continue to work this case year after year, even when the technology did not exist to pursue such leads, never give up, achieve in justice for Cathy Holley and her family,” said Village President Mark Gaffino who is a life-long resident of North Aurora.
“It makes me so proud to be a resident of North Aurora and the mayor as well. I’m so grateful for the hard work, dedication of our officers.”
In 1981, Lindahl was found dead in an apartment in Naperville, another of Chicago's western suburbs. Police said he apparently accidentally slashed a major artery in his own leg and bled to death while fatally stabbing an 18-year-old man in the home. Many photos of naked women later were discovered in Lindahl’s apartment. His remains were exhumed in 2019 for DNA testing.
Halle’s family said in a statement that revisiting the case has been difficult, but they are grateful to have closure after 45 years.
“Thanks to advancements in DNA technology and groundbreaking investigative tools, we are hopeful that other families won’t have to endure the same pain and uncertainty that we faced for so many years,” the family said. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to the North Aurora Police Department and all the agencies and organizations involved for their dedication, persistence, and for never giving up, even when the odds seemed impossible.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Listen to WBBM Newsradio now on Audacy!
Sign up and follow WBBM Newsradio
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok