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84-Year-Old Arrested in 1974 Cold Case Murder Through Genetic Genealogy

Jon K. Miller was linked to the murder of Mary Schlais after DNA from a decades-old crime scene was matched with his genetic profile.

  • Mary Schlais, a 25-year-old artist, was found murdered in Dunn County, Wisconsin, in 1974 while hitchhiking to an art show in Chicago.
  • A stocking cap with hairs left at the crime scene provided no leads until recent advancements in genetic genealogy were applied.
  • Investigators partnered with Ramapo College to trace the suspect's family lineage, leading them to Jon K. Miller, who was adopted.
  • Miller, living in Owatonna, Minnesota, confessed to the murder when confronted with the DNA evidence.
  • The arrest brings closure to a case that has remained unsolved for 50 years, with authorities noting the relief felt by Schlais' family.
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