The Wichita Police Department recently received information on the Vickie Wegerle homicide that occurred on September 16, 1986, in the 2400 block of W. 13th St. Mrs. Wegerle was discovered in her home shortly before noon on that day, by her husband. Her murder remains unsolved.
According to Lt. Ken Landwehr, Commander of the Department’s Homicide Section, the letter received by the Wichita Eagle contained photographs and a personal item. Investigations personnel now believe that this homicide could possibly be linked to the unsolved homicides that occurred in Wichita in the 1970s and were attributed to the BTK (Bind, Torture, Kill) serial killer.
Investigators are utilizing new forensic technology to re-analyze evidence in this case that includes the use of Combined DNA Indexing System (CODIS) and Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS).
Lt. Ken Landwehr, who has worked on this investigation from its beginning, stated, "This is the most challenging case I have ever worked on, and the individual would be very interesting to talk with."
The Department has developed a plan of action in order to effectively address the influx of tips and telephone calls that the Department anticipates it will receive on this case. To ensure anonymity, a tip line that is non-traceable has been set up. Citizens with information may call 268-4174; they may e-mail information to coldcase@wichita.gov or they can mail information to Cold Case, P.O. Box 9202, Wichita, KS 67277-0202.
"We are working closely with the FBI, the KBI, the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office on this investigation," said Lt. Landwehr. "This case is a top priority with the Wichita Police Department and we will be working this as a strong, unsolved case, and exploring all possible leads." he said.
Citizens are encouraged to continue to practice personal safety and to be proactive in reporting suspicious activity in their neighborhoods. More information on crime prevention can be accessed on the Department’s website at www.wichitapolice.com by going to the Community Affairs/Crime Prevention link, or by calling Community Affairs at 268-4101, according to Lt. Landwehr.
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