Sophie Schwartz, 65, was killed on December 9, 1978, in Chicago, Illinois. While crossing Sunnyside Street near Wells Park she collapsed, crying out in pain; medics took her to the emergency room where doctors found a bullet wound in her back. She died about an hour later. Investigators reported no signs of robbery and no known prior threats, and the motive for the killing was described as unclear.

On December 23, 1978, 35-year-old Ronald Hoffman, nicknamed the Sunshine Sniper, was arrested carrying a .357 magnum revolver and 40 rounds of ammunition. Ballistics tests linked his weapon to multiple shootings, including the one that killed Sophie Schwartz. Hoffman was charged with multiple counts of murder; he did not offer a motive for the attacks.

Anyone who knew Sophie, saw her that day, or has information about the shootings is asked to come forward.