DNA Solves 65-Year-Old Cold Case of Adopted Boy's Death in Wisconsin

Chester Alfred Breiney, formerly known as Markku Jutila, was identified through genetic genealogy, bringing closure to a decades-old mystery.

In 1959, the remains of a child were found in a Mequon, Wisconsin ditch, later identified as 7-year-old Chester Alfred Breiney.
Chester was adopted and renamed Markku Jutila; his adoptive mother confessed to his murder, but charges were dropped due to insufficient evidence.
The case remained unsolved until DNA technology linked Chester's remains to his biological family in September 2024.
Investigators found evidence of significant neglect and abuse, including a healed broken rib, in Chester's remains.
Both adoptive parents died in 1988, preventing prosecution, but a funeral is planned to honor Chester's memory.