Lowell Police Seek ID Of Mystery Officer In Painting
LOWELL (CBS) - It's the mystery of the man in the painting, and Lowell Police are asking for help making an ID.
A formal portrait depicting a Lowell Police Lieutenant 80 or 90 years ago was recently found. And they don't know who he is.
"This is going to be somebody's great grandfather or great uncle," says Lowell Police Captain Tim Crowley.
But who is the very distinguished gentleman staring from the canvas? It's a missing person case with a twist. "It's a good investigation. You're looking for a happy outcome," Crowley says.
The painting was found at the Lowell photography studio of George Poirier who passed away a few months ago. Poirer's grandson found the portrait, a black and white photo used as a model for the painting, and an envelope that doubled as a receipt, indicating the portrait was done in December of 1964 and that it cost $125.
"It was paid for by the Lowell Police Relief Association, which no longer exists," Capt. Crowley says.
It even has instructions for colors. "On that envelope it dictated the badges and buttons were to be gold, the hat was to be white, the jacket was to be blue," Crowley says.
Crowley believes the police lieutenant is wearing a uniform from the 20's or 30's. But was this a retirement portrait, or was the officer killed in the line of duty? There are many questions, but no answers.
"It's very impressive work. You look at the painting off that photo, the detail is outstanding, down to the hat is a little crooked on his head," Crowley explains.
The Lowell Police are hoping someone recognizes the picture, and it can be given to family members.