CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Forty years after the death of local psychologist Dr. Barbara Bremer, the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office is once again reaching out to the public in hopes of solving one of the region’s cold cases.
Dr. Bremer, a respected psychologist at Carle Clinic and a dedicated cyclist, was reported missing on September 20, 1985, after failing to show up for work. Her colleagues, who described her as a private person, alerted the Champaign Police Department after she had not been seen since the previous evening.
According to investigators, Bremer was last seen leaving her home on her green Peugeot 10-speed bicycle. She was known to ride nearly 10 miles a day and had recently ended a relationship with a fellow professional who had moved out of state.
Tragically, on September 24, 1985, her body was discovered in a cornfield after a tipster reported seeing a bicycle partially hidden several feet into the field. Deputies responding to the call found both Bremer’s bicycle and her remains.
An autopsy revealed that Bremer had suffered multiple traumatic injuries to her jaw, neck, and chest. Authorities also noted that her helmet, gloves, and cycling shorts had been removed. Despite extensive efforts by investigators at the time, the case went cold.
Now, the Sheriff’s Office is asking for renewed assistance from the community. “Even the smallest detail can make a difference,” said Sheriff Dustin Heuerman. “We continue to review evidence and pursue leads in this case. We are committed to finding justice for Barbara and bringing closure to her family and loved ones.”
Anyone with information, no matter how minor it may seem, is encouraged to contact the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division at 217-384-1213.
Crime Stoppers is also offering up to $5,000 for tips that lead to an arrest in any homicide case. Tips can be submitted anonymously. Contact Information: Sheriff Dustin D. Heuerman – (217) 384-1205 sheriff@champaigncountyil.gov or Lieutenant Curt Apperson (217) 384-1213 capperson@champaigncountyil.gov.
