Human Remains Found in Fox River Identified

Introduction to the Case

The Kane County coroner on Thursday positively identified the remains of Karen Schepers, an Elgin woman who went missing in 1983.

Background of the Disappearance

Schepers vanished 42 years ago after a night out with friends in Carpentersville. Her 1980 yellow Toyota Celica was recovered from the Fox River on Tuesday by the Elgin police and fire departments and Chaos Divers. The car contained human skeletal remains.

Investigation Process

A press release from the Kane County Coroner’s office said identification of the remains was made using a forensic odontologist along with dental records provided by the Schepers family.

Role of the Cold Case Unit

The Schepers case was the first active investigation for the police department’s newly formed Cold Case Unit. It was also the subject of the department’s “Somebody Knows Something” podcast.

Search and Recovery Efforts

Cold case detectives Andrew Haughton and Matt Vartanian worked with Chaos Divers as the group searched the river on Monday using sonar. The car was found just north of the Slade Avenue boat launch in about seven feet of water.

Conclusion

The identification of Karen Schepers’ remains brings closure to a case that has been open for 42 years. The efforts of the Cold Case Unit and the use of advanced technology have helped solve a mystery that has haunted the community for decades.

FAQs

• Q: How long was Karen Schepers missing?
  • A: Karen Schepers was missing for 42 years.
• Q: How was the identification of the remains made?
  • A: The identification was made using a forensic odontologist along with dental records provided by the Schepers family.
• Q: Where was the car found?
  • A: The car was found just north of the Slade Avenue boat launch in about seven feet of water.
• Q: What was the role of the Cold Case Unit in the investigation?
  • A: The Schepers case was the first active investigation for the police department’s newly formed Cold Case Unit.