Bloomington Police say they have uncovered evidence in a 31-year old cold case murder, though the suspect has died. In late February of 1984 the body of 37-year old Gary Sheppleman was found in what was then Schenk's Tavern on Morrissey Drive in Bloomington. Sheppleman had been killed using an edged and a blunt weapon. He was a bartender. Money was taken from the Bar.
Police estimated the time of death between 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. the evening of February 27th. Detectives gave up the active investigation two years later after leads petered out and following four grand jury hearings.
In late 2014, officers did a review of the case and gathered new information from a witness who identified Aaron Patrick. The witness was willing to talk, due in part to Patrick's death some 23 years before.
The McLean County State's Attorney's Office says it believes the information would have been enough to charge Patrick. Police say the sisters and brothers of Gary Sheppleman are grateful for the closure the investigation provided.
