A suspect in the 1991 rape and murder of Dana Ireland in Hawaii killed himself after being identified and questioned by investigators. Dana was 23 years old when she was kidnapped, raped, and killed in the Kapoho area. The DNA found on Dana and on a sheet used to transport her to the hospital matched Albert Lauro Jr., who was 57 at the time. Lauro was questioned by police on July 19 but was not arrested at the time due to lack of probable cause for the murder charge since the statute of limitations for rape-related charges had lapsed. Police Chief Benjamin Moszkowicz defended this decision and stated that more evidence was expected to be obtained from Lauro.
The police were hoping to gather more information from Lauro regarding the case but he took his own life, which has resulted in a coroner’s inquest being conducted. Lauro’s body was found at his home, and investigators are trying to determine if he left behind any notes or clues that may shed light on his actions. The investigation into Dana Ireland’s murder remains active, and police are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward. Three individuals have served prison terms for their involvement in the case, including Albert “Ian” Schweitzer who was recently released after new evidence was presented proving his innocence.
Those involved in Dana’s murder included Schweitzer, Frank Pauline Jr., and Shawn Schweitzer. Frank Pauline Jr. received three life sentences and was killed by an inmate in a New Mexico prison in 2015. Shawn Schweitzer accepted a plea deal and served one year in prison followed by five years of probation. DNA evidence collected at the crime scene was initially known as “Unknown Male #1” as it did not match any existing databases. Changes in technology later allowed for a match to be made to Albert Lauro Jr. based on DNA found on a shirt at the crime scene and a fork that he had used and discarded.
Despite Lauro’s suicide hindering the investigation, the police remain committed to solving Dana Ireland’s murder. The authorities are encouraging anyone who may have known Lauro and possesses information relevant to the case to come forward. The case has gone through various developments over the years, with new evidence leading to the release of one of the convicted individuals. Police Chief Moszkowicz expressed hope that access to Lauro’s cell phone may provide additional information that could help them understand his actions. The tragic events surrounding Dana Ireland’s death have left a lasting impact on her loved ones and the community, and solving the case remains a top priority for law enforcement.
