On May 17, 2025, a story originally aired detailing the discovery by Minnesota crime scene investigators in Minneapolis. In June 1993, water seeping into an apartment revealed a tragic scene in apartment 2104. Jeanie Childs, a 35-year-old woman, was found stabbed over 60 times in her high-rise apartment.
Discovery of the Crime Scene
At around 5:30 p.m., a tenant reported water leakage. When investigated, the running shower was causing flooding in the adjacent apartment. Retired forensic scientist Bart Epstein noted that after the shower was turned off, a violent crime scene was uncovered in the bedroom, with Childs’ body found partially beneath a bed.
Evidence Collection
Epstein emphasized the importance of documenting the scene, as blood stains and spatter revealed a story. Bloody footprints and DNA samples from the bedroom and bathroom revealed unknown profiles but showed no immediate matches.
As the investigation unfolded, authorities gathered significant evidence, including a blue washcloth, a red T-shirt, a bath towel, and blood scrapings. However, no murder weapon was located.
Court Proceedings and Suspects
The investigation shifted focus several times, considering multiple suspects. Arthur Gray, Childs’ acquaintance, was ruled out after his alibi checked out and his footprints didn’t match those found at the scene. The DNA of John Esswein, another suspect, was found in the stairwell but not inside the apartment.
An unknown DNA profile led investigators to Jerry Westrom, a Minnesota businessman, after forensic genetic genealogy linked him to the crime scene. Although Westrom denied involvement, his DNA was found on items in Childs’ apartment. The case was built on a combination of his DNA and footprints.
Trial and Conviction
Westrom’s trial began in August 2022. Despite the absence of a motive or prior violent history, footprints and DNA evidence were pivotal. The jury quickly reached a verdict, finding Westrom guilty of murder. He was sentenced to life in prison.
Family Impact
Jeanie’s family expressed ongoing grief. Her mother, Betty Eakman, wrote about her enduring emptiness since Jeanie’s death. Despite the conviction, some challenge the evidence against Westrom and suggest possible alternate suspects.
The Minnesota Supreme Court upheld Westrom’s conviction, while the U.S. Supreme Court denied his petition, concluding the intricate legal journey in this tragic case.