SFPD Cold Case Unit is Asking for the Public’s Assistance in Solving Six Homicides #23-011(a)

The San Francisco Police Department’s Cold Case Homicide Unit is seeking the public's assistance in solving six homicides that occurred between January 24, 1974, and June 1975.

The first known victim, Gerald Cavanaugh, was found deceased on January 24, 1974, near the area of Ulloa Street and Great Highway. Investigators believed all the victims were targeted because they were gay, white adult males, and the victims met the suspect shortly before they were killed in isolated coastal locations.

Investigators suggested a possible connection to two violent attacks that occurred in July 1975 at the Fox Plaza. Cold Case investigators have since identified a suspect involved in the Fox Plaza attacks, but are unable to connect the two incidents at this time. However, the suspect is still considered a person of interest.

Investigators also have information that the suspect may have traveled by car from the Bay Area through the southeastern United States.

The Department is offering a $250,000 reward for the identification of the suspect(s) responsible for the Ocean Beach homicides.  

Anyone with information is asked to contact the SFPD Homicide Cold Case Unit at (415) 553-1450, Monday-Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM. You may also call our tip line at 1-415-575-4444 or Text-A-Tip to TIP411, beginning your message with SFPD. You may remain anonymous.