An arrest has been made in a Calumet City murder that has gone unsolved since the 1960s, and prosecutors are offering new details about how the investigation finally led to a suspect.
Authorities say James Barbier, 79, was arrested in Missouri in late April in connection with the 1966 stabbing death of 18-year-old Karen Snider.
Prosecutors allowed Barbier to return to Missouri pending trial, saying his age and health prevent him from being considered “a real and present threat” under the Pretrial Fairness Act.
Barbier will not be allowed to leave the state of Missouri, among other pretrial conditions, according to officials.
Prosecutors also released new details about how the case unfolded, beginning in the 1960s.
On the night of November 12, 1966, Snider was found murdered in her home in the 400 block of Wilson Street, according to police. Her husband discovered her when he came home from work, summoning the police to the home.
Snider was found in a bedroom after suffering multiple stab wounds and other injuries likely from a physical assault, police said.
Police also found a trail of blood in the kitchen and bathroom, saying an individual attempted to wipe away the stains in both areas.
Prosecutors say Barbier worked with Snider’s husband at a local railroad company. Barbier’s wife reported that her husband came home that evening “appearing nervous” and was observed to have multiple cuts, with blood on his person and clothing.
Barbier was arrested in connection with the killing, but no charges were filed, according to prosecutors.
In December 2022, the case was reopened and police sent physical evidence to the Illinois State Police forensic laboratory in Chicago. In March 2023, detectives located Barbier in Missouri and executed a search warrant to obtain a DNA sample.
Prosecutors say DNA evidence found on the suspect’s pants and the victim’s dress strongly suggests a match to Barbier and Snider, according to the brief.
An arrest warrant was issued on April 26 and he was taken into custody at his home on April 29, according to prosecutors.
His next court appearance will be later this year, according to prosecutors.
NBC Chicago
