The investigation: then and now

Originally published Jan. 8, 1994

Then

"We are and we will continue to provide as much information as we can. (But) our primary responsibility is for the investigation and ultimately the prosecution of this case." - Palatine Deputy Police Chief Walt Gaslor, the day after the murders were discovered, amid complaints the department was too tight-lipped.

"I would rather they err on the side of caution and do everything right than to do something haphazardly." - Palatine Village President Rita Mullins

"I certainly hope someone isn't waiting for an invitation to give us information." - Palatine Deputy Police Chief Walt Gaslor, reacting to criticism the department was slow to interview those who live or work near the restaurant.

"He's mild-mannered. He's nonviolent. He's the eighth victim." - Thomas Blake of Inverness, father of Martin E. Blake, who was held for questioning for two days after the murders before being released.

"Yes, there is a killer still on the loose." - Cook County State's Attorney Jack O'Malley on Jan. 11, 1993, after Blake was released.

"People have just got to stop being afraid. I think that's why nobody is coming forward." - Diane Clayton, mother of murder victim Marcus Nellsen, more than a month after the murders.

"(It) seems to defy logic that - you could have two maniacs committing these types of crimes in that compressed time frame in that small geographic region." - Palatine Police Chief Jerry Bratcher, in an interview in May, discussing the possible link between the Palatine murders and the dismemberment murder of Dean Fawcett in Barrington in late December.

"I was nowhere near Palatine. I wish they would clear that up." - Robert Faracl, one of two men charged with Fawcett's killing.

Now

"I don't think I'd characterize the case as real close to a solution at this juncture." - Palatine Police Chief Jerry Bratcher.

"Every day you think either you're one day further away from knowing the truth or you're one day closer, depending on how you look at it." - Jennifer Ehlenfeldt, daughter of slain Brown's owners Lynn and Richard Ehlenfeldt.

"If I have my way, as long as I'm police chief and I have a voice in it, this task force will be functioning until the case is cleared." - Palatine Police Chief Jerry Bratcher.

"They (the police) do not give up. I'm sure they won't in this case." - Palatine Village President Rita Mullins.

"Even if they do catch the guys, I won't feel safer." - Ken Pittonger, a former Brown's assistant manager.