In a world increasingly connected by technology, justice no longer rests solely in the hands of law enforcement. Citizen detectives—passionate, everyday people with sharp minds and sharper instincts—are stepping in to re-examine long-forgotten clues, decode cryptic evidence, and challenge cold cases that have remained unsolved for years.
From deciphering digital footprints to organizing virtual search parties, these online sleuths have proven they can make real impact. But it’s a delicate balance: amateur investigations must tread lightly, respecting victims’ families and not hindering official work.
Still, for many cases left in the shadows, a new perspective might be exactly what’s needed.
Below are 17 unsolved murder cases that remain open—and may be just one clue away from justice.
The Double Murder That Led to Another Tragedy
- Victims: Jocelyn Watt & Rudy Perez
- Location: Wind River Reservation, Wyoming
- Year: 2019
The couple was found shot to death in their home. A year later, Jocelyn’s sister Jade Wagon—who had been advocating for justice—also died under mysterious circumstances. Officials ruled it accidental, but her family believes otherwise.
The Small Town’s Only Cold Case
- Victim: Kelley Gaffield
- Location: Webster, New York
- Year: 1995
After a night with friends, Kelley disappeared. Her body was later found in a wooded area, and despite hundreds of leads, no arrests have ever been made.
“Down the Hill”: The Voice That Still Haunts Delphi
- Victims: Liberty German & Abigail Williams
- Location: Delphi, Indiana
- Year: 2017
Libby German captured a chilling video of a man on the trail, including his voice. Thousands of leads have poured in—but the killer still walks free.
A Party, Racism, and an Unsolved Murder
- Victim: Alonzo Brooks
- Location: La Cygne, Kansas
- Year: 2004
After attending a party, Brooks never came home. His body was found weeks later. Racial tensions and a lack of accountability still surround the case, which the FBI is treating as a possible hate crime.
The Women Who Knew Too Much
- Victims: The Jennings 8
- Location: Jefferson Davis Parish, Louisiana
- Years: 2005–2009
Eight women, all linked to a criminal underworld, were found dead—often dumped in water. The cases appear connected, yet authorities insist they’re not.
Murder on the Most Tragic Day in America
- Victim: Henryk Siwiak
- Location: Brooklyn, New York
- Year: 2001
Siwiak was fatally shot the night of 9/11. With all eyes on the Twin Towers, his death was overlooked—and remains unsolved.
The Lifeguard Who Never Made It Home
- Victim: Molly Bish
- Location: Warren, Massachusetts
- Year: 2000
Molly disappeared from her lifeguard post. Her body was found years later, deep in the woods. Her killer has never been found.
The Murdered Marine’s Girlfriend Is Still Missing
- Victim: Krystal Mitchell
- Location: San Diego, California
- Year: 2016
Mitchell was strangled, and her boyfriend, Raymond McLeod, fled the country. He’s still on the U.S. Marshals’ Most Wanted list.
Could You Be the Break in the Case?
These murders are more than statistics—they’re open wounds for families, still waiting for closure. Digital detectives have made breakthroughs before, and they may again. However, experts caution against interfering with active investigations.
“Well-meaning sleuths can unintentionally harm a case,” says criminal justice professor Dr. Khadija Monk.
Brittney Knapp, a senior investigator, adds: “Unauthorized interviews or online speculation can destroy evidence credibility.”
If you want to help:
- Share verified missing persons posts
- Submit tips through official crime reporting portals
- Organize online discussions responsibly
- Don’t contact victims’ families unless invited
Where to Submit a Tip
If you have any information—big or small—contact:
- National Center for Missing & Exploited Children: 1-800-THE-LOST
- Crime Stoppers USA: 1-800-222-TIPS
- FBI Tip Line: tips.fbi.gov
Final Thought: Justice Needs You
The era of armchair detectives has arrived. With caution, respect, and integrity, citizen investigators have the power to shine light into the darkest corners of unsolved crimes. Could you be the one to uncover the clue that cracks a cold case?
🕵️♀️ Share your thoughts in the comments:
Should citizen detectives play a bigger role in solving crimes? Or should cold cases be left only to the professionals?