**Breaking News: Cold Case from 1974 Solved as Police Identify Killer of Artist Mary Schliz**

In a shocking turn of events, authorities have finally cracked the decades-old cold case of Mary Kathleen Schliz, a 25-year-old artist who was brutally murdered while hitchhiking in 1974. After nearly 50 years of unanswered questions, the Dun County Sheriff’s Office has identified John K. Miller, now 84, as the man responsible for this heinous crime.

Mary Schliz, who had a bright future ahead of her, disappeared on February 15, 1974, while traveling from Minneapolis to Chicago. She was picked up by Miller, who drove her to a secluded area where he attempted to assault her. In a desperate struggle for her life, Mary fought back but was stabbed 15 times before Miller callously discarded her body in the snow. The case went cold, with only a few leads and a composite sketch of the suspect.

Over the years, investigators revisited the case multiple times, but it wasn’t until 2022 that advances in forensic genetic genealogy breathed new life into the investigation. A DNA profile was developed from evidence found at the scene, leading detectives to a family tree that eventually traced back to Miller.

On October 19, 2024, police confronted Miller at his home, where he confessed to the murder. His chilling admission revealed a lack of remorse, as he recounted how Mary’s refusal for 𝑠e𝑥ual contact led to her brutal killing.

Miller, who has a history of criminal behavior, was sentenced to life in prison on March 27, 2025. This resolution has brought a measure of closure to Mary’s family, who can now honor her memory rather than dwell on her tragic end.

As the community grapples with the horror of this revelation, one thing is clear: justice, though delayed, has finally been served.