More than 30 years after two brutal killings, New Jersey authorities say they have finally identified the man responsible for both crimes through advances in DNA technology.
The Camden County Prosecutor’s Office announced on April 9 that evidence connects Francis T. Schooley to the murders of 24-year-old Marebeth Welsh and 16-year-old Jennifer Persia. Schooley, however, died in 2000 at age 39, meaning he will never face prosecution.
Victims Found Less Than a Year Apart
Marebeth Welsh was found dead on a sidewalk in Camden on Nov. 14, 1993. Investigators noted suspicious details at the scene, including the absence of shoes and the condition of her clothing, suggesting her body had been moved after her death.
An autopsy determined she had been strangled, with evidence indicating a sexual assault.
Months later, on April 4, 1994, Jennifer Persia was found dead inside her Magnolia home. She had suffered multiple stab wounds and signs of strangulation. Investigators collected blood evidence at the scene, but at the time, the suspect remained unidentified.
Cases Go Cold for Decades
Despite early forensic efforts, both cases went cold. DNA collected from the crime scenes was entered into national databases, but no matches were found for years.
Advances in DNA Technology Lead to Suspect
In 2021, investigators turned to genetic genealogy, submitting DNA evidence for advanced analysis. While initial leads did not identify a suspect, further testing in 2025 revealed a match between DNA found in both cases, confirming they were connected.
Through additional investigation and family DNA comparisons, authorities identified Francis T. Schooley as the likely perpetrator.
Suspect’s Connections to Victims
Investigators uncovered links between Schooley and both victims. He had reportedly worked at a property connected to Jennifer Persia’s family and was also said to have been seen with Marebeth Welsh in the past.
DNA testing involving Schooley’s relatives strongly supported the conclusion that he was the source of the evidence found at both crime scenes.
Case Resolution Brings Some Closure
Although Schooley cannot be prosecuted, officials say the findings provide long-awaited answers for the victims’ families.
Authorities emphasized that while justice in court is no longer possible, identifying the suspect marks a significant step in resolving two long-standing cases.
