Elgin police cold‑case unit credited after discovery and identification in 1983 Karen Shepherd case; city proclaims day of recognition

The Elgin City Council recognized the Elgin Police Department’s cold‑case unit after a sonar search of the Fox River led to the recovery of a vehicle and the subsequent identification of human remains as Karen Shepherd, a case dating to 1983.

Lede: The council praised the department’s cold‑case unit for reopening and advancing the long‑running investigation into the disappearance of Karen Shepherd; the city issued a proclamation recognizing the detectives and partner agencies that worked on the case.

Nut graf: The department’s work — including modern forensic techniques, community engagement through a department podcast, assistance from dive teams and partner agencies — led to a sonar search on March 24, 2025, the recovery of a vehicle on March 25 and identification of remains on March 27. The council and chief recognized detectives Andrew Houghton and Matt Vartanian for their roles.

What officials said: Chief Lally described the case resolution as “the best of our profession when innovation coupled with the human touch of policing” and thanked partner agencies including Chaos Divers, Redmond’s Towing and the Kane County coroner’s office. Detective Andrew Houghton thanked the community for tips generated by the department’s podcast and investigators’ outreach. Detective Matt Vartanian described the recovery and return of personal effects, including a ring returned to Shepherd’s 90‑year‑old mother.

Council action: The council issued a proclamation recognizing the cold‑case unit’s work and the day in remembrance; there was no policy action attached to the proclamation.

Ending: Council members and the chief said the result provided long‑awaited answers to the family and illustrated the value of public‑police collaboration on cold cases.