The Clinton County Sheriff’s Office has identified a teenager, found in the Mississippi River near Clinton, Iowa over 50 years ago, as Cheryl Lynn Edwards from Waukegan. This breakthrough resulted from forensic genealogy. Sheriff’s deputies discovered her body on April 11, 1975, but were unable to identify her immediately. An autopsy confirmed her death as a homicide.
Despite ongoing investigations, identifying her remained elusive until recent DNA technology advancements allowed a re-examination of evidence. Edwards was the child of the late Bernice and Leonard Edwards, who lived in Waukegan. Her family had sought her since her disappearance. Upon identification, her surviving relatives were informed.
With this new development, the homicide investigation can continue. The Clinton County Sheriff’s Office seeks further evidence to find who was responsible for Edwards’ murder. A 1975 Waukegan High School yearbook photo confirms her identity as a homicide victim.
Authorities, including the Waukegan Police Department and Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations, now seek public assistance. They request any information regarding Edwards’ life, disappearance, and untimely death.