Chicago Police Solve 1960 Murder Case with DNA Evidence

In a significant development, the Chicago Police Department (CPD) has identified Thomas McInerney, a deceased former detective, as the perpetrator of the 1960 murder of eight-year-old Gloria Kowalewicz. This revelation comes after authorities utilized newly discovered DNA evidence linked to the case.

A Shocking Crime Unveiled

Gloria Kowalewicz was last seen on November 12, 1960, as she walked from her home in West Englewood to attend a church service. Tragically, she never arrived. Shortly thereafter, her body was discovered in a ditch at a forest preserve located southwest of Chicago. Investigating officials reported that she had been abducted and fatally shot.

Evidence Collected from the Scene

Upon discovering Gloria’s body, investigators collected various pieces of evidence, including:

• A bullet
• Her coat
• A white communion purse containing a prayer book
• A fingerprint lifted from the strap of her purse

An Extensive Investigation

In the aftermath of the crime, police launched an extensive investigation, forming a task force that interviewed approximately 1,300 individuals, including twelve subjects who underwent lie-detector tests. Despite their efforts, McInerney remained unidentified for decades.

Dramatic Breakthrough with DNA Evidence

The case saw a turning point in 2026 when DNA evidence submitted to a family tree website enabled the FBI to connect McInerney to the crime scene. Subsequent DNA, fingerprint, and ballistic tests confirmed his involvement in Gloria’s murder.

Legacy of the Investigator

Thomas McInerney, who passed away in 2006, had served as a Chicago police officer since 1959. He worked in homicide investigations and later took on investigator roles in federal public defender’s offices in Nevada after retiring from the CPD in 1987. His obituary mentioned numerous commendations during his service and acknowledged him as a dedicated family man.

Impact on Gloria’s Family

The CPD expressed hope that the resolution of this long-standing case would bring closure to those who knew and loved Gloria. “McInerney should have never worn the CPD star,” the statement read. “It is devastating to accept that he was never identified and held accountable while he was alive.”

Gloria’s brother, Adam Kowalewicz, shared his relief at the identification of his sister’s murderer but also expressed frustration that justice was never served. “He never paid his dues,” Adam stated, urging hope that McInerney might face repercussions in the afterlife rather than in this world.

Conclusion

The identification of Thomas McInerney as Gloria Kowalewicz’s killer marks a pivotal moment in a case that has haunted the city of Chicago for over six decades. The use of modern DNA technology underscores the potential for resolving cold cases and providing answers for victims’ families.