206 Cases Solved. Advancing justice for missing persons, unsolved homicides, unidentified and unclaimed remains.
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Description
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Kevin Taylor: The Chicago Strangler

Early Life

Kevin Taylor was born on June 11, 1974, in Chicago, Illinois. His early years were marked by instability, as both of his parents were incarcerated, leading to his placement in various foster homes. Taylor's criminal record began in 1993 with a burglary conviction, resulting in a four-year prison sentence. In 1999, he was convicted for the unlawful use of a weapon. By December 2000, Taylor secured employment as a cook at a Cheesecake Factory on North Michigan Avenue. By the summer of 2001, he resided in Edwardsville with his girlfriend and their two children.

Modus Operandi

Taylor targeted vulnerable women, particularly those involved in prostitution. He would arrange sexual encounters, often leading to disputes over payment, which escalated to violence. Taylor's method of killing was consistent: he strangled his victims during these altercations.

Victims

  • Ola Mae Wallace (39): Discovered on June 25, 2001, in an alleyway along North Sheridan Road.
  • Diane Jordan (42): Found on July 10, 2001, in an alleyway on the 1400 block of North Mohawk Street.
  • Cynthia Halk (38): Discovered inside a trash can in an alley on July 29, 2001, at 1150 N. LaSalle Street.
  • Bernadine Blunt (39): Found on August 18, 2001, inside an abandoned building at 331 E. Kensington Ave.
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Victims
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Confirmed Victims: (4)
  • Ola Mae Wallace Age: (39), Date of Death: 2001-06-25
  •     ...View 3 additional victims
    Survivors:
  • Phyllis Robinson Age: (38), Date of Attack: July 27, 2001
  • Killer's Details

    Kevin

    Taylor

    June 11, 1974 (age 50) Chicago, Illinois, United States

    5 ft. 08 in. (172cm)

    Male

    Black

    • First degree murder (x4) • Attempted murder

    Life imprisonment

    4

    June 25 - August 18, 2001

    Illinois

    August 20, 2001

    Menard Correctional Center (IDOC#: B52807) — Chester, Illinois

    07/11/2025