Randy Kraft: The Chilling Legacy of the Scorecard Killer and Recent Victim Identification
Randy Kraft remains one of the most infamous serial killers in American history. Known as the "Scorecard Killer," Kraft's name continues to haunt both investigators and the families of his victims, even decades after his arrest. Recent developments have brought closure to yet another cold case, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of his brutal crimes.
Who Was Randy Kraft?
Randy Kraft was a computer programmer in California whose secret life shocked everyone who knew him. Between the late 1970s and early 1980s, Kraft preyed upon young men, often targeting military personnel and hitchhikers. His crimes spanned across several states, most notably California, Oregon, and Michigan.
Kraft's moniker "Scorecard Killer" comes from a coded list found in his vehicle after his arrest. This list is believed to reference up to 67 victims, though he was convicted of 16 murders in California. The precise number of his victims remains uncertain to this day, fueling ongoing investigations and public fascination. For a detailed account of his crimes and conviction, CBS News offers a comprehensive overview of Kraft’s criminal history and ongoing investigations.
The Identification of Larry Eugene Parks
In May 2025, cold case investigators made a significant breakthrough. After nearly 45 years, a "John Doe" victim found along Interstate 5 near Woodburn, Oregon, was identified as Larry Eugene Parks, a 30-year-old Vietnam veteran. Parks had been last seen in Florida in 1979, and his family was left without answers for decades. The identification was possible thanks to forensic investigative genetic genealogy and the persistence of law enforcement teams. KATU News details the closure this discovery brought to Parks' family.
Oregon State Police believe Randy Kraft is the only person under investigation for Parks’ 1980 murder. The identification process involved DNA profiling and family member submissions, demonstrating how modern forensic techniques solve cases once thought unsolvable. FOX 12 Oregon provides further insight into the events and investigative steps leading to Parks' identification.
A Long Shadow Over Decades
Randy Kraft’s arrest in 1983 ended his reign of terror but left a legacy of unanswered questions. Evidence collected during his trial linked him to several cases outside California, suggesting that even more families may be affected by his crimes. The recent breakthroughs underscore how advances in DNA technology are crucial for justice.
Despite being sentenced to death in 1989, Kraft remains at San Quentin State Prison and has never admitted guilt. Law enforcement agencies continue to review cold cases for potential connections. The Scorecard Killer’s crimes have left a permanent mark on American criminal history, and each new identification brings hope for resolution to long-suffering families.
Conclusion
The case of Randy Kraft serves as a grim reminder of the importance of perseverance in criminal investigations. As new victims are identified and stories are told, the work of dedicated professionals and advances in forensic science bring long-awaited answers. For more on the ongoing cases linked to Kraft and the impact on families, follow the latest coverage in credible news reports.