Gerald Earl Cavanagh, a 49-year-old Canadian-American, was found dead at the water’s edge on San Francisco’s Ocean Beach in the early hours of January 27, 1974. His body had multiple stab wounds and a defensive wound on his left hand, showing he struggled with his attacker. He was fully clothed and carrying $21.12 and a Timex watch; the medical examiner briefly listed him as John Doe #7.

Cavanagh is considered the first known victim in a series attributed to an unidentified killer dubbed The Doodler. That suspect has been described in reports as a Black man between 19 and 25 who sketched victims before stabbing them; the attacks targeted white men met at gay nightclubs, bars, and restaurants in San Francisco and victims were often left near waterfronts or parks.

No arrests have been announced and the killer’s identity remains unknown. Does anyone have information about Cavanagh, his movements in January 1974, or connections to the other victims?