The Mystery of Linda Sue Childers Solved After 50 Years: Connecticut State Police Identify Remains

LEDYARD, Conn. (identified-csp-medical-examiner/” target=”_blank”>WTNH) — A 50-year-old mystery has finally been solved through DNA testing, as Connecticut State Police and the Medical Examiner’s office announced the identification of Linda Sue Childers, a victim in a 1970s homicide case.

The breakthrough came when the previously anonymous remains, discovered in a shallow grave in Ledyard, Connecticut, back in May 1974, were identified as belonging to Linda Sue Childers, originally from Kentucky. This identification was made possible by the collaboration between law enforcement agencies and advancements in DNA technology.

Authorities revealed that Linda Sue Childers was one of two victims found in the grave, with the double homicide occurring on December 31, 1974. A witness to the crime provided crucial information leading to the location of the victims.

It was uncovered that Linda Sue Childers had been in the northeast in the years leading up to her disappearance. However, due to the use of an alias, her true identity remained a mystery until now. The confirmation of her identity has brought closure to her family, providing long-awaited answers.

An autopsy revealed that Linda Sue Childers died from a gunshot wound to the head, leading to the determination of her death as a homicide. This tragic end to her life has now been officially documented, providing a sense of closure to the case.

Despite years of investigation, no leads were initially discovered through national databases such as the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) or the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). However, a breakthrough occurred in July 2022 when DNA samples were sent to the forensic and genetic genealogy company Othram.

By adding Linda Sue Childers’ DNA to their database, Othram was able to identify a potential familial match, leading to the involvement of the victim’s sister. Through collaborative efforts, including the provision of a DNA sample by Childers’ daughter, the identity of the remains was ultimately confirmed.

It was revealed that the suspects responsible for the double homicide had been arrested shortly after the murders and were subsequently convicted. Both individuals have since passed away, closing the chapter on this tragic case that had remained unsolved for five decades.