The 2001 Maryland Cold Case Solved by a Romanian DNA Match

In May 2001, 48-year-old Leslie Preer was found murdered inside her home in the quiet, affluent suburb of Chevy Chase, Maryland. For over two decades, the case baffled the Montgomery County Police Department. Despite recovering DNA from beneath her fingernails, the profile matched no one in the national database. Then, in 2022, detectives partnered with Othram to utilize forensic genetic genealogy. The results were staggering: the DNA match didn't lead to a suspect in Maryland, but to a distant family lineage originating in Romania. By tracing the family tree across the Atlantic Ocean, investigators finally uncovered a name that the victim's family already knew—Eugene Gligor, the high school ex-boyfriend of Leslie's daughter. Following the 2026 CrimeCon CLUE Awards, which honored the detectives who refused to let this case go cold, this is the complete documentary breakdown of the Leslie Preer murder, the 23-year wait, and the incredible science that brought a monster to justice. 🔔 If you are fascinated by cold cases solved by DNA and forensic genealogy, make sure to SUBSCRIBE so you never miss a deep dive. Our latest video dives deep into a complex case, utilizing cutting-edge dna analysis to trace familial connections. We explore a comprehensive family tree, piecing together information to understand the origins of ancestors. This investigation highlights the persistent efforts in dna testing over two decades, drawing parallels to forensic science in its methodical approach and dedication.