Chicago Police Identify Former Officer as Killer in 1960 Child Murder Cold Case

Key points

• Gloria Kowalewicz was abducted on Nov. 12, 1960, while walking to church in Chicago's West Englewood neighborhood.
• Her body was found in a forest preserve in Palos Park, southwest of Chicago, with two gunshot wounds to the head.
• Thomas F. McInerney Jr. was a 24-year-old patrol officer at the time of the murder and later became a homicide detective.
• McInerney retired from the Chicago Police Department in 1987 and died in Las Vegas in 2006 at age 70.
• The case was solved in 2026 using DNA from a genetic ancestry website and a fingerprint from Gloria's purse strap.
• The FBI is checking if McInerney's DNA in CODIS links him to other unsolved crimes from that era.

Background

This case follows a pattern of cold case resolutions using modern DNA technology, similar to the Golden State Killer case. It also aligns with recent coverage of other unsolved crimes, such as the 1982 Tylenol murders and the 1985 Pet Cemetery Murders, where DNA and new evidence have helped identify suspects decades later. The Chicago Tribune first reported the breakthrough on Oct. 11, 2026, with other outlets following on Oct. 12.

How outlets are covering it

NBC News and CBS News emphasize the shock that the killer was a police officer and the emotional impact on the Kowalewicz family. The Chicago Tribune provides detailed historical context, including the initial manhunt and McInerney's career. The Guardian highlights the use of DNA technology and the fact that McInerney died before being identified. All outlets agree on the core facts but differ in emphasis: NBC focuses on the emotional toll, the Tribune on the historical details, and the Guardian on the technological breakthrough.

Why it matters

This case highlights the power of modern DNA technology in solving cold cases and the importance of preserving evidence. It also raises questions about accountability and justice for victims whose killers die before being identified. The case may lead to the resolution of other unsolved crimes if McInerney's DNA links to other victims.

What to watch

The FBI is investigating whether McInerney's DNA in CODIS links him to other unsolved crimes. The Chicago Police Department may review other cold cases from the 1960s and 1970s. The Kowalewicz family may seek further closure or legal actions, though McInerney is deceased.