Bloody Footprints and DNA: Solving a 30-Year-Old Cold Case

In 1993, the brutal murder of Jeanie Childs in Minneapolis left investigators with a chilling clue: bloody, bare footprints. For over two decades, the case remained unsolved despite the discovery of male DNA at the scene. In 2015, the Minneapolis Police Department reopened the investigation, utilizing advanced DNA technology and investigative genetic genealogy. This led to a potential match with two brothers, one of whom, Jerry Westrom, was ultimately linked to the crime. The footprints became a central point of contention, with forensic experts debating their evidentiary value. "Without the footprints, we wouldn't be here," stated one investigator, emphasizing their importance in the case. The case of Jeanie Childs demonstrates the evolving power of forensic science in solving cold cases, offering hope for justice even after decades have passed.