Investigators in Indiana are considering utilizing DNA testing to identify the skeletal remains discovered on the property of suspected gay serial killer Herb Baumeister. This testing is contingent on receiving DNA samples from victims' relatives. Baumeister, who was believed to have murdered up to 25 young men in the 1980s and 90s, took his own life in 1996 as police pursued him. The investigation initially found over 10,000 bones and fragments at his estate but stalled due to funding cuts.
The renewed interest in the investigation began in 2022 when Eric Pranger contacted Hamilton County Coroner Jeff Jellison, suggesting that his missing cousin, Allen Livingston, might be one of the victims. Livingston, last seen in 1993, was taken by an unidentified man. Jellison shared his motive for pursuing the case further: "How do you say no to that? That’s our job as coroners by statute, to identify the deceased." This indicates the dedication of the investigative team to seek justice and closure for the victims' families.
Initially, investigators managed to identify eight of the suspected victims using dental records available at that time, but funding cuts halted further DNA testing, leaving many families with unanswered questions. The discovery of shrouded evidence, including charred remains and disturbing items such as handcuffs, amplified the case's gravity. The exploration of Baumeister's history and potential connections to gay bars raises significant questions about societal issues during that era.
The search for closure is both personal and professional for those involved in the investigation. Family members like Sharon Livingston, whose health is deteriorating, hope for answers regarding her missing son. With DNA technology advancing, the possibility of linking remains to victims is slowly becoming a reality. This ongoing journey emphasizes the intersection of law enforcement and the emotional weight carried by families, highlighting a deep-seated need for resolution in cold cases.
Collection
[
|
...
]