The families of four Calgary females believed to be victims of a serial killer from the United States have released statements honouring their loved ones and thanking investigators at a news conference in Edmonton on Friday. Eva Dvorak, 14; Patricia McQueen, 14; Melissa Rehorek, 20; and Barbara MacLean, 19, were identified as victims of Gary Allen Srery in the 1970s. Each family released a statement to police, expressing gratitude for closure and for identifying a suspect in their deaths. The McQueen family fondly remembers their sister Patsy, who was described as a typical teenager full of life, adventure, and curiosity. They express love and grief for their sister and thank investigators for never giving up on the case, providing answers after 48 years of uncertainty.
The McQueen family recalls Patsy’s love for sports, music, singing, and dancing, as well as her strength and independence at a young age. They wonder about the life she could have lived and express love and longing for their sister. The Dvorak family also found closure in the news about 14-year-old Eva’s murder. They remember Eva’s bright smile, bubbly personality, and love for dancing and singing, as well as her love and cherishment by family and friends. The Rehorek family shared that Melissa was a fun-loving, adventurous, and hard-working person who enjoyed nature and traveling to Banff. The MacLean family expressed the constant pain of losing Barbara tragically and their relief in finally getting answers after nearly 50 years.
The MacLean family also extended condolences to the other families and acknowledged the shared connection of pain, grief, and suffering over many years. They expressed hope that the families can find peace in the future, thanks to the relentless pursuit of justice by police agencies and advances in forensic genetic genealogy. Superintendent David Hall of the Alberta RCMP’s serious crimes branch emphasized the team’s 40-year pursuit to identify the perpetrators and provide answers to the families. He acknowledged that while identifying the perpetrator does not bring back the victims, it may help the families finally understand what happened to their loved ones.
The families have requested privacy and asked not to be contacted for further information or comments during this difficult time. They expressed gratitude for the closure and answers provided by investigators and hope for peace in the days ahead. The families thanked investigators for their dedication and perseverance in solving the case after decades of uncertainty and grief. The families honored their loved ones through heartfelt statements, remembering their lives, personalities, and dreams that were tragically cut short by a serial killer. Despite the pain and loss, the families found some solace in finally getting answers about the fate of their loved ones after many years of waiting.
