DNA Connects Rape, Homicide Cases From 1990s

CLEVELAND -- Recent analysis of DNA evidence from cold cases led Cleveland police to conclude that a rape case and a homicide case, both more than 10 years old, are linked.

The rape case dates back to May 3, 1996. Police said a man picked up the victim near East 93rd Street and Marah and repeatedly raped her before forcing her into the trunk of his car.

He then drove her to Union Avenue and shot her in the hand and neck. The victim recovered from her injuries but the case wasn't solved.

In February 1997, the body of 41-year-old Maxine Pratt was found under a tractor-trailer in a lot on East 86th Street. Pratt had suffered a head injury and her death was ruled a homicide.

New analysis showed DNA from both cases matched one person. That person is described as a black male with a dark complexion, 5 feet 7 inches tall and 140 to 150 pounds.

He would now be in his 30s and has a prominent scar on his right cheek.

Anyone with information should call Crime Stoppers at 216-252-7463 or contact Cleveland police.