Two-Decade-Old Murder Mystery: Police Seek Leads in Olsztyn Case

After the 2023 discovery of skeletal remains buried along the Łyna River in Olsztyn, police have identified the victim as Stanisław Hornowicz, a man who vanished from legal proceedings in 2003.

Discovery of Remains

Sub-inspector Tomasz Markowski, spokesperson for the Warmia-Masuria police, reported that the remains of Stanisław Hornowicz were found buried by two passersby in September last year. Initial examinations of the site and the body indicated that the death was not natural and the burial site was intended to remain hidden.

Identification Through DNA

Investigators initially lacked documentation to identify the victim. Forensic experts determined the body belonged to a male between 40 and 55 years old who had been buried for several years. A DNA profile match eventually led authorities to Hornowicz’s family, though no missing persons report had ever been filed.

Criminal History and Disappearance

Born in 1958, Hornowicz had a history of legal trouble, including stints in Olsztyn and Barczewo prisons. He was wanted by the District Court in Olsztyn for fraud and document forgery at the time of his death. Following a 1998 divorce, he had no fixed residence.

Ongoing Investigation

Hornowicz last appeared in court in late 2003. Police inquiries in April 2004 revealed that neighbors had not seen him for two months. Olsztyn investigators are now calling for anyone with information regarding the death of Stanisław Hornowicz to contact the Criminal Department of the Provincial Police Headquarters in Olsztyn.