#ColdCase

[dailydwshipwheel]

Today's DW ship of the day is...

Dazzle x Rodger !

Ship names; ColdCase, FailedCase, SadMystery

[longreads]

“I discovered a plausible myth, a trove of red herrings, and, finally, what appeared to be the truth.” 

Who killed the Fudge King? For our sister publication The Atavist Magazine, Tom Donaghy investigated—and possibly solved—a decades-old cold case about the murder of Harry Anglemyer, the beloved owner of a fudge shop empire. 

 Read an excerpt, “True Crime, Jersey Shore Style,” on Longreads.

[storyplaza]

Self-Defense or Murder? 😨

🕵️‍♂️ Chilling Menendez Case – Murder or Survival?

Was it a cold-blooded double murder… or a desperate act born from years of hidden trauma? The Menendez brothers shocked America—but the full story is more complex than headlines suggest. Watch the short story that will leave you questioning everything. 🤯

[husheduphistory]

Dead End: The Walk, Box, and Shock of Wallingford Connecticut

Founded in 1670, the town of Wallingford, Connecticut has witnessed centuries of change. Once connected to multiple influential figures in Colonial history and the American Revolution, by the 1800s the town became an industrial hub and in the later part of the 19th century Wallingford found itself featured across headlines all over the country. Unfortunately for the residents of the town, this new notoriety had nothing to do with Wallingford’s industry and everything to do with a horrible discovery.

On the morning of August 8th 1886 brothers Edward and Joseph Terrell, their friend Giles Sommers, and Edward’s dog were walking along an isolated dirt road looking for berries when they noticed something out of place. Hidden under some bushes was an 18” X 30” wooden crate with lettering on the outside claiming it was holding a “dozen pairs of finely stitched men’s shoes.” It seemed innocent enough, but when the dog approached the box its curiosity quickly turned to barking and whines of warning. Then there was the stench. The men left the scene, later returning with crowbars. When they pried open the box there were no shoes. There was straw, soaked in blood and packed around a headless human torso wrapped in tar paper.

The news of the horrific discovery sent shockwaves through Wallingford and beyond. The medical examiners estimated the torso belonged to a man between twenty-five and forty years old, weighing anywhere from 150 to 175 pounds, and that they had been dead between five and ten days before being discovered packed into the shoebox. Interestingly, the stomach was removed by the medical examiner and they discovered that there was a large amount of arsenic present in the victim’s system before he died. While this was all valuable information, it was the only information and the hope for answers quickly faded with authorities openly admitting there was very little to go on. As stated by the coroner, “This is the most mysterious case I have had since I was appointed coroner. With one exception, I have found out exactly what caused death, but this case puzzles me more than any yet. I can’t say whether or not I have obtained any clues.”

Newspaper headline about the body in the box. Image via newenglandhistoricalsiciety.com

The torso had no other bruises or injuries and it appeared the limbs and head were severed haphazardly with a knife or similar dull object. It was buried the next day but the questions continued to permeate headlines and conversations. One of the first suspected victims was Arthur J. Cooley, a Civil War veteran with very well known problems with drinking. Cooley worked at a local slaughterhouse for two decades before abruptly retiring and collecting a pension of $1,500 and his family had recently reported him missing after he was seen leaving a tavern but never returning home. But, Cooley eventually reappeared after an extended time away drinking and the mystery resumed. The next theory was more of a stretch and asked the people of Wallingford to look back to a series of fires that destroyed multiple buildings in town. Three years earlier Frank H. Morse Jr. was accused of setting two buildings ablaze that his father, Frank H. Morse Sr., was using for glass production. There was no question that it was arson, the guard was drugged prior to the fires breaking out and the charges were that Morse had his son intentionally set the blaze in order to collect insurance money. The trial of Frank H. Morse Jr. was recent, taking place only five months before the torso was found but due to a lack of evidence and Morse Jr. having an alibi that he was home the night of the fires, the charges were dropped. If Morse was truly home the night of the fires, did his father have someone else commit the crime for them and did they end up in the box as a punishment for not covering up their tracks well enough to prevent the suspicion of arson? When the torso was discovered the arson case was still open and people wondered if there was a connection. Others wondered if the murder was not an isolated incident. Only a few weeks before finding the torso in the box Edward Terrell was walking in the same area with his dog when he found the body of a deceased woman. Medical schools were questioned, rosters of missing persons were scoured, and there was no answer to who met their grisly end with a stomach full of arsenic but without their limbs and head.

With no human connections being made, authorities looked to the box for answers. The torso was packed into a wooden crate that was manufactured for a shoe factory located over 100 miles away in Fall River, Massachusetts. From there the box was filled with shoes and shipped to a wholesale boot and shoe dealer in Chicago, Illinois who then sent it to a local shoe shop. Once the crate was unpacked it was thrown in the back of one of these shops before it was sold to a man who was never identified. While this was the fairly normal lifecycle of these types of shipping cartons, the fact that it was in Chicago raised some more suspicions. Only a few months earlier in May 1886 Chicago was the site of the bloody Haymarket Riot where striking laborers fighting for workers’ rights clashed with police in Haymarket Square. A bomb was thrown into the crowd killing multiple people leading to the arrest of eight labor leaders and the eventual execution of half of them. With the riot fresh in their minds, the crate’s ties to Chicago, and no other leads, people began to wonder if the crate was shipped back home from Chicago containing the body of someone involved in the riot that fell to a different form of  justice.

The absence of answers left a lot of room for speculation to thrive. One story claimed that a mysterious bag was seen at the bottom of a well that disappeared before it could be recovered and a young man claimed that he saw the box sitting in the bushes for over a week before it was found. Rumors and theories swirled but in the weeks following the discovery there were some random, but very real additions to the story. Early in the investigation pieces of scalp were found near the site of the body in the box but they provided no groundbreaking information other than the pieces pointing to the victim having dark hair. While these pieces of scalp could not be proven to be from the same victim, another discovery had a connection that was hard to ignore. On September 26th a farmer found a pair of arms and legs near the site where the bloody box was found. The limbs were not at the site when the box was originally discovered and they were wrapped in the same tar paper as the torso.

With these seemingly connected, terrible finds people began speaking up. A local Wallingford woman came forward and told the authorities that in early August a disheveled, bearded man knocked on her door asking for directions to a nearby pond. He was carrying a sack and was wearing a shirt covered in blood but she assumed he was homeless and directed him to the water. She stated that later on she saw him again, walking past her house without the sack and wearing a clean shirt. With the first real lead finally coming out the police prepared for a manhunt, but only a few days later the woman totally recanted her story stopping any progress. Another woman named Mabel Preston claimed at first to know everything regarding the murder and was subpoenaed by the court but once she was under oath she changed her story, saying she knew absolutely nothing about the crime. She didn’t have much time to change her mind again, two years later Mabel committed suicide.

With the only two possible leads revoking their information the case was left floating in limbo until it gradually began to fade from the headlines and public memory. Major news about the case would not appear again until 1926 when the former police chief of Wallingford came forward with a shocking claim. Dan O’Reilly was chief of police when the bloody box was discovered in 1886 and four decades later he spoke exclusively to The Journal, not to discuss his opinions of the case, but to say that he knew exactly who the murderer was. According to O’Reilly, he had “several reasons” for never disclosing the truth about the killing including: “…the fact that the perpetrator of the crime, that is the actual killer, has now been dead nearly twenty years and I know of no good reasons why the descendants or relatives of the murderer should be made to bear the ignominy which revelation of his identity would impose on them.” But who were these descendants that would be so affected? O’Reilly told the paper that contrary to opinions, this murderer was not some rogue bloodthirsty madman or a cold-blooded predator, he stated the killer “was no outcast beyond the pale of society, but the scion of one of New England’s oldest families, a native of New Haven county, whose ancestry traces directly back to the Mayflower.” He also revealed details about the victim, that he was a resident of Fairfield county and that he was brutally murdered to silence him because he was aware of people involved in a “serious crime” committed against the state of Connecticut. Despite these salacious claims and the decades gone bye he reiterated that he would not change his mind on his secrecy, stating: “…I shall carry this secret, already locked in my heart for twenty years, to the grave with me.” O’Reilly kept his promise, never disclosing the name of the killer.

Story printed by The Journal where former chief Dan O'Reilly claimed to know the killer. Image via newspapers.com.

The “Wallingford Shoebox Murder” was never solved and is still considered an open case despite the trail going cold nearly 140 years ago. Today the most prominent remnant of the crime stands silent, but in plain sight with the road where the box was discovered now being officially named Shoebox Road.

***************************************************************

Sources:

Kilianski, Michael. “The Connecticut Shoebox Murder Mystery: America’s Oldest Cold Case.” Blogspot.com, 23 May 2021, creativehistorystories.blogspot.com/2021/05/the-connecticut-shoebox-murder-mystery.html.

Landrigan, Leslie. “The Mystery of the Wallingford Shoebox Murder.” New England Historical Society, 8 Aug. 2015, newenglandhistoricalsociety.com/the-mystery-of-the-wallingford-shoebox-murder/.

Mangan, Gregg. “The Shoe Box Murder Mystery.” ConnecticutHistory.org, 8 Aug. 2020, connecticuthistory.org/the-shoebox-murder-mystery/.

“Notorious Shoe Box Murder No Mystery to Dan O’Reilly Knows Who Was the Slayer.” The Journal , 7 Aug. 1926, www.newspapers.com/article/the-journal/172560421/.

[criminalfile]

What is the Criminal File?

Criminal File is a project that I started to shed light on lesser-known crime and paranormal stories. I hope you’ll enjoy reading my works as much as I enjoy writing them!

There are two series under The Criminal File Brand:

Case Files focuses on all things related to crime and cold cases.

Tea Time Cryptid is the spin-off series with a heavy focus on paranormal stories and tales of the macabre.

Join me as we delve into some of humanity’s darkest chapters, one horrifying story at a time.

Why Should You Subscribe?

If you’re a fan of all things crime & horror-related, you don’t want to miss out on this newsletter. Each week, we go deeper into the rabbit hole filled with tales of the dark and morbid.

I mean it’s completely free to hit that subscribe button so what do you have to lose but your sanity?

Check out the Criminal File today!

[profilingevil]

Suzanne vanished on Mother’s Day 2020. Now, a grand jury says Barry killed her—and the new evidence is chilling. Tranquilizers. Timeline gaps. And the discovery of Suzanne’s remains.

[thesassygazette]

🕯️ SHELBY’S SWEETHEART, STILL MISSING 💔

On Valentine’s Day 2000, 9-year-old Asha Degree packed her bookbag, walked into the rain, and was never seen again.

📁 Buried backpack.

🧬 DNA breakthroughs.

💬 A chilling confession.

But still no arrests. No answers.

Now, 25 years later, we’re revisiting everything: the timeline, the suspects, the heartbreak, and the hope.

📰 Read the full deep dive here:

🔗 https://thesassygazette.blogspot.com/2025/06/the-vanishing-valentine-inside-unsolved.html

Because someone, somewhere, still knows the truth.

#AshaDegree #TrueCrime #MissingChildren #UnsolvedMystery #JusticeForAsha #TheVanishingValentine #ColdCase #BlackAndMissing #TheSassyGazette

[99sunflower]

I really don’t understand why I would love to see this case be solved.

I remember being 15 and it wasn’t easy gettIng hit on by older men. I remember walking inside a store on vacation when I was 15 a guy kept following me and wouldn’t leave me alone. This was in a tropical state. My mother told me older men tend to do this a lot to younger females. She experience the same type of harassment at my age at the time. Yes, I’m a feminist who wants justice for this ladies missing.

[home-inspiration-blog]

Body found in Oregon nearly 45 years ago linked to notorious serial killer arrested in OC

A man who was found dead along Interstate 5 in Oregon has been identified after nearly 45 years and police say a notorious California serial killer is the sole person of interest in the case. Marion County Cold Case: Larry Eugene Parks Identified as 1980 Murder Victim #ORNews #ColdCase https://t.co/sdw0m4jELn — RN Oregon (@RightNowOregon) May 9, 2025 The 30-year-old was identified Friday as…

[ladonnahumphreyofficial]

LaDonna Humphrey on the Importance of Persistence in Investigative Journalism

In the world of investigative journalism, where truth often lies hidden beneath layers of secrecy, misinformation, and resistance, persistence is not just a trait — it is a necessity. Few individuals embody this more powerfully than LaDonna Humphrey, a seasoned journalist and author whose work continues to shed light on unresolved crimes and societal injustices. Her unwavering commitment to seeking the truth has made her a trusted voice in true crime circles and a model of journalistic perseverance.

Who Is LaDonna Humphrey?

LaDonna Humphrey is an investigative journalist, advocate, and true crime author best known for her work on the Melissa Witt murder case, a decades-old unsolved crime that has haunted the state of Arkansas since 1994. Over the years, Humphrey has become a prominent figure not only for her investigative skills but also for her dedication to giving a voice to the voiceless — especially victims whose stories have faded from the headlines.

Beyond writing and reporting, Humphrey co-founded All the Lost Girls, a nonprofit organization that advocates for missing and murdered women. Her advocacy extends far beyond words, often involving deep collaboration with law enforcement, forensic experts, and families of victims.

Persistence: The Heart of Investigative Journalism

Investigative journalism is vastly different from daily reporting. It often involves months, sometimes years, of digging through public records, interviewing sources, fact-checking, and challenging the status quo. For LaDonna Humphrey, persistence is not just a technique — it's a mindset.

When she first began investigating Melissa Witt’s case, she faced significant roadblocks: limited access to evidence, reluctance from potential witnesses, and the sheer difficulty of unraveling a cold case. But instead of giving up, she pressed forward — filing FOIA requests, building a network of supporters, and meticulously piecing together timelines and clues.

This kind of tenacity is what separates surface-level reporting from transformative journalism. In Humphrey’s case, her work has reopened public interest in cold cases, encouraging others to come forward with new information and, in some instances, prompting law enforcement to re-engage with dormant investigations.

Why Persistence Matters to the Public

Investigative journalism, especially when fueled by persistent inquiry, plays a vital role in democracy. It holds power to account, uncovers truths that would otherwise remain buried, and gives a platform to those often ignored or forgotten. LaDonna Humphrey’s investigations remind us that even when answers seem out of reach, persistence can make the difference.

By refusing to let cases like Melissa Witt’s be forgotten, Humphrey has not only honored the memory of the victim but also educated the public on broader issues — such as systemic flaws in cold case investigations and the importance of community involvement in justice.

The Digital Age and New Challenges

While digital tools have made some aspects of journalism easier — such as access to archives and ability to reach wider audiences — they have also introduced new challenges. Online misinformation, shortened attention spans, and the pressure of rapid news cycles make it harder for in-depth investigations to find their footing.

In this landscape, Humphrey’s steady, focused approach is more valuable than ever. Her success proves that long-form investigative work still has a place — and impact — in the modern media environment.

Lessons from LaDonna Humphrey for Aspiring Journalists

For those looking to pursue a career in investigative journalism, LaDonna Humphrey’s journey offers key lessons:

Stay committed to the story even when progress feels slow.

Build trust with sources and communities.

Never underestimate the power of research — even small details can lead to breakthroughs.

Use storytelling as a tool for justice, not just entertainment.

Final Thoughts

LaDonna Humphrey’s career stands as a testament to the power of persistence in journalism. In a field where patience and resilience are often overlooked, she reminds us that sometimes the most meaningful stories are the ones that take the longest to tell. Her work continues to inspire journalists, advocates, and readers alike — proving that with dedication, even the coldest case can spark new hope.

[lisalfisher]

Culpeper County

[storyplaza]

The Ghost of Isdalen Valley

Norway, 1970. A woman's body found in the valley... but the truth is far stranger. Fake passports, coded notes, endless questions. Ruled a suicide, but the case of the Isdal Woman is a labyrinth of secrets. Who was she, and what was she hiding? Dive into this chilling, unsolved mystery. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Cwfo_6Qk8OU

[worldviewnews]

The Jack the Ripper mystery might finally be solved

In a stunning revelation that could rewrite one of history’s most chilling unsolved mysteries, historian Russell Edwards claims to have uncovered the true identity of Jack the Ripper. Through an extraordinary 100% DNA match, Edwards identifies Aaron Kosminski, a 23-year-old Polish immigrant and barber, as the infamous serial killer who terrorized London’s East End in the late 1800s.

For years, Kosminski had been considered a suspect, but now, according to Edwards, the evidence is irrefutable. Edwards' breakthrough came after he purchased a shawl found at the scene of Catherine Eddowes’ gruesome murder in 2007. Using DNA from a descendant of Kosminski’s oldest brother, Edwards claims the results confirm the Ripper’s identity.

"Without a doubt, 100% it’s him," Edwards told NewsNation’s "Banfield," his voice charged with conviction. In an unexpected twist, Edwards also commissioned a composite drawing based on family photos of Kosminski, offering a rare glimpse of the man behind the bloodshed—a face reconstructed from the past, now staring back at us.

Edwards turned his findings into a book, "Naming Jack the Ripper: The Definitive Reveal," hoping to bring closure to the 137-year-old case that has haunted both Britain and the world. Forensic tests on the shawl—a nine-foot-long relic tucked away in a police filing cabinet for decades—seem to support his claim. The evidence, Edwards argues, places Kosminski at the crime scenes with chilling certainty.

Yet, not everyone is convinced. Forensic DNA expert Jarrett Ambeau voices skepticism, calling the use of mitochondrial DNA—less precise than nuclear DNA—insufficient to definitively identify the killer. The shawl, Ambeau points out, has been handled by countless individuals over the years, introducing the possibility of contamination. “What about all the other people that touched this item in the 137 years between the date of the murder and the date it was tested?” Ambeau questions. “The information just isn’t there.”

While the debate rages on, the mystery of Jack the Ripper remains as tantalizing as ever. Has Russell Edwards finally cracked the case, or is this just another false lead in the eternal whodunit? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the search for the truth behind the Ripper’s identity has never been more captivating.

[mboyle]

Some cases haunt you. This is one of them

[criminalfile]

Breaking News in South Korea

Jung Yoo-jung, an avid true crime fan, was recently sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of a female tutor.

She allegedly killed and dismembered the victim ‘out of curiosity.’ Jung posed as a parent seeking a tutor before stabbing and dismembering the victim.

She was caught after a taxi driver became suspicious and called the police.