Five years later, Kevin Clewer's killer is still at large. ( Photo of Kevin Clewer courtesy of Ron Clewer. )
That was the message several individuals—including Clewer's brother, Ron, and Cook County Crime Stoppers—tried to get out on a rain- and wind-swept afternoon March 28 at Cornelia and Halsted. Crime Stoppers Chairman George McDade gave out flyers that had a photo of Kevin Clewer; a sketch of "Fernando," a person of interest; and pertinent information on them. Several people took the flyers to distribute around Boystown and Andersonville.
On March 24, 2004, Kevin Clewer, 31, was found in his apartment murdered, the victim of multiple stab wounds. According to the flyer, he was last seen on North Halsted with someone known as "Fernando," who is considered a person of interest.
Describing the operation, McDade said, it would take about 45 minutes "to get the flyers out to the businesses so that everybody will know that there was a bad crime that we need help getting solved." When asked if any new leads had surfaced, McDade told Windy City Times, "At five years old, the leads are gone." At this point, an unidentified man interjected, "They arrested Fernando five years ago. I thought they were going to be looking for the killer, not Fernando." McDade then replied, "I talked to Chicago police two days ago. They said, 'Just use the composite [ on the flyer ] ."
Cook County Crime Stoppers encourages people to anonymously report tips on crime and be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000. People can call 800-535-STOP or visit www.cookcountycrimestoppers.org any time to report their tips.