Police ask for public's help regarding 1985 cold case murder

CHICAGO - A DNA sample submitted by a central Illinois man after a recent conviction led to his arrest in the 1985 stabbing death of a teenager who'd left her suburban Chicago home to buy candy.

Kristina Wesselman's body was found July 22, 1985, in a field she used as a shortcut to a grocery store from her home in unincorporated Glen Ellyn. The case went cold years ago and many gave up hope that it would ever be solved.

Michael R. Jones, 62, of Champaign, appeared in bond court Monday on two counts of murder and one of aggravated sexual assault in the killing of the popular 15-year-old student, who excelled in sports and had been freshman class president. Jones, who was arrested Sunday, is being held without bond.

Now, the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s assistance relating to the arrest of Jones. The crime occurred on July 21st, 1985 at approximately 4:30 P.M. in unincorporated Glen Ellyn near Route 53 and Butterfield Road.

In the photo gallery above are photographs of Jones’ appearance around the time of the murder. The Sheriff’s Office is asking that anyone who knew Jones and had personal contact with him on July 21st, 1985 or during the summer of 1985 in Glen Ellyn or the surrounding area to contact them at 630-407-2333.