Canadian authorities have made a significant breakthrough in solving four cold cases dating back nearly 50 years. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police announced that they have linked the deaths of four young women in the 1970s to a now deceased U.S. fugitive who had been hiding in Canada for several decades.
The fugitive, identified as Gary Allen Srery, was found to be connected to the unsolved murders of Eva Dvorak, Patricia McQueen, Melissa Rehorek, and Barbara MacLean. These tragic incidents took place in Calgary, Alberta, between 1976 and 1977.
Using advanced DNA and criminal databases, authorities were able to trace Srery's family tree, leading to the breakthrough in these long-standing cases. Srery, who passed away in 2011 while serving a life sentence for rape in an Idaho prison, had a history of violent crimes including forcible rape, kidnapping, and burglary.
During his time in Canada from the mid-1970s to the late 1990s, Srery lived under multiple aliases and frequently changed his appearance, residence, and vehicles to evade law enforcement. He worked as a cook in Calgary and later in Vancouver, all while maintaining a transient lifestyle.
Despite collecting semen from all four crime scenes at the time of the murders, technology limitations prevented the development of DNA profiles. It wasn't until recent advancements that authorities were able to make the crucial link to Srery.
Alberta RCMP officials are now seeking the public's help in identifying any additional cases that may be linked to Srery's criminal activities during his time in Canada. They believe there may be more victims and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The case highlights the importance of cross-border cooperation in tracking down criminals who operate across multiple jurisdictions. Srery's extensive criminal history and ability to evade detection for decades underscore the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in pursuing justice.
