As a solution-oriented person, I struggle a lot with sitting in “waiting periods.” If someone has a problem, I am doggedly determined to help solve it. I’m not even necessarily looking for the most positive outcome possible. I find peace in the outcome, be it good or bad. Sitting in a limbo period is akin to torture for me. I’m sure there is trauma to unpack there, but ultimately, if there is an answer, I really feel compelled to figure it out.
Were I a detective, I am certain a cold case would drive me insane. Discovering an answer, even a tragic one, can help bring victims peace.
After 33 years, southern Illinois authorities helped to bring some closure to the family of Randy Gail Sperino.
On November 9, 1993, Sperino’s body was found beaten and broken in a rural field, according to the New York Post. She had what records described as “massive blunt force trauma to the head.”
Her killer seemed to vanish without a trace, leaving authorities chasing leads for three decades. Prosecutors say forensic genealogy and decades-old DNA evidence have changed everything. Albert L. “Buddy” Zigler, 70, of Caseyville, is now facing first-degree murder charges, according to Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine, who announced the charges on May 26, 2026.
“While nothing can erase the pain experienced by Miss Sperino’s loved ones, we hope this development provides some answers after so many years,” Haine shared in a statement.
Investigators used forensic genealogical DNA, an advanced technology that traces ‘family connections’ through genetic evidence.
“This case demonstrates the extraordinary value of modern investigative tools such as forensic genealogical DNA,” Haine said, per Fox News. “Advances in technology and science are creating opportunities to solve cases that, years ago, might never have been solved.”
Haine credited Madison County Sheriff Jeff Connor for pushing to use the technology before it was even mainstream.
“Seven years ago, Sheriff Connor had the foresight to know that a new investigative tool, even though it was just emerging, might be able to provide a breakthrough in this investigation,” Haine said. “The sheriff and his investigators never wavered in seeking justice in this case.
“These tools are only effective because of the dedication, persistence, and professionalism of investigators who are willing to revisit evidence, follow leads, knock on doors, conduct interviews, and continue pursuing the truth, no matter how much time has passed,” he added, per Fox News.
Zigler reportedly admitted to picking up Sperino and beating her with a metal bat or steel pipe before dumping her body in the field.
He faces first-degree murder charges. Prosecutors are seeking to keep him jailed before trial.
“I never thought that this day would come. I thought I might pass and never know, but that all changed thanks to these guys behind me and to my side,” Wes Sperino said, according to WSAW. “I was ecstatic, and then I had immediate tears of joy, and I was just shocked that I was hearing the words of ‘We got him.'”
