In a significant breakthrough, a 49-year-old mystery has finally been solved as Michael Ray Schlicht, an Iowa teenager, has recently been identified as one of the earliest victims of the infamous ‘Scorecard Killer,’ Randy Kraft. This long-awaited identification comes almost five decades after the lifeless body of Schlicht, previously known only as ‘John Doe,’ was discovered in a remote area northeast of Laguna Beach, California on September 14, 1974.

Unraveling the Elusive Mystery

Initially, Schlicht’s death was mistakenly classified as accidental, attributed to alcohol and diazepam intoxication. However, as similar horrifying homicides emerged, investigators began to question the ruling. Kraft, who is currently serving time at San Quentin State Prison, was convicted in 1989 for the brutal murder of 16 men over a span of ten years in Orange County. His reign of terror came to an end in 1983 when he was apprehended. Now 78 years old, Kraft is suspected of being responsible for numerous other killings in California, Oregon, and Michigan.

Linking the Pieces: The ‘Scorecard Killer’

Referred to as the ‘Scorecard Killer’ due to his disturbing habit of keeping notes about his victims, Kraft’s heinous acts often involved torture, sexual assault, and mutilation. His arrest followed a routine traffic stop during which a strangled U.S. Marine was found in his vehicle. Despite overwhelming evidence and his subsequent conviction, Kraft has consistently maintained his innocence.

Breakthrough in DNA Profiling and Genealogy Databases

In November 2022, investigators made a significant breakthrough in the case by utilizing advanced DNA profiling techniques and genealogy databases to identify Schlicht. The crucial breakthrough came when DNA from a woman believed to be his mother in Kansas City, Missouri, provided confirmation. This breakthrough sheds much-needed light on a case that has confounded authorities for almost five decades, offering a sense of closure.

The identification of Schlicht marks a significant milestone in the ongoing investigation into Kraft’s alleged victims. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department has now reclassified Schlicht’s case as a homicide and is appealing to anyone with relevant information to come forward. With their renewed commitment to solving this cold case and the power of modern forensic technology, justice is finally being served for Michael Ray Schlicht.