FAIRMONT, MINNESOTA – A breakthrough in the cold case of a 1975 murder has brought new hope to solving the brutal killing of 21-year-old JoAnn Bontjes. A recent discovery of an unknown DNA sample found at the scene of the crime has reignited the investigation, nearly 50 years later. The Martin County Sheriff’s Office, led by Sheriff Jeff Markquart, announced the new development on Thursday, revealing that the DNA sample has been submitted to the state Bureau of Criminal Apprehension for analysis.
According to authorities, investigators have meticulously compared the DNA sample with samples obtained from multiple individuals, ruling out each one as a contributor to the unknown DNA profile. Bontjes was last seen alive leaving the American Legion club in Trimont on October 2, 1975, heading towards her home in Sherburn, just 8 miles away. Her body was discovered the following day in a ditch, fatally shot in the head with a shotgun.
Law enforcement found Bontjes’ abandoned car two miles south of Trimont, with her belongings still inside. Tire tracks suggested that another vehicle had pulled in front of her car, indicating a possible struggle or confrontation. The young woman, who operated a beauty salon in Sherburn, was reported missing when she failed to show up for work the next day.
In the days following Bontjes’ tragic death, reports surfaced about sexually suggestive phone calls received by beauticians in the area, raising suspicions about a potential connection to the murder. Lisa Lenning, a friend of Bontjes, recounted their last moments together at the Legion in Trimont, emphasizing the normalcy of their evening before Bontjes’ disappearance. Lenning expressed the impact of the case on the community, stating that many were left feeling unsettled and anxious following the incident.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward and provide assistance. Sheriff’s Sgt. Matt Owens can be contacted directly, or individuals can reach out to the BCA tip line for further inquiries. Lenning, who still resides in the area, shared her desire for closure in solving the murder mystery, echoing the sentiments of many seeking justice for Bontjes after all these years.