How do I receive information on a murder that occured in 1968, when I am the granddaughter?

Question

I was just like to know some of the details surrounding the death and maybe what the investigators may have found-even if it doesn't result in re-opening of the case or the criminal being caught. The case is still unsolved.

Answer 1

I'm sorry for your loss. You can tell by your question it still bothers you. I would start with your local police department (or whatever agency originally investigate the murder). Perhaps you can find the name of the detective who originally investigated the case. He (she) may still be alive and can shed some light on what happened.

If you don't get any luck with the police department, try your local historical society or library. I'm sure newspapers still exist from 1968 and you might be able to learn more details or people you could talk to about the case.

It seems to me when something this tragic occurs, and there is never closure because the person is never caught/tried, that must be really terrible for the family.

Good Luck

Answer 2

It is too late for you to get full details, because there are limitations on how long records are supposed to be stored.

Start with County Court House where the deceased lived / died & get yourself a copy of the death certificate, which will include stuff like the date it happened, the official cause of death, maybe even names of officials at the time like medical examiner, doctor who diagnosed cause of death.

This is real important in case family members told you something different than what was in the official records.

In addition, see if there's a record there on who was the executor of the will of the deceased. If that person is still alive, they may be able to tell you stuff, or have records they can show you.

Armed with death certificate info, check the newspaper morgue for what was published right after the death about your grandparent. By newspaper morgue, I mean copies of newspapers of time (probably on microfilm) obituary section, and news articles, either in public library or the newspaper ... warning ... the newspapers in the community in 1968 might not be the same as today, due to buyouts, go out of business, etc.

The newspaper articles will narrow your focus a bit to where in the city the murder was believed to happen, or where the body was found, which dictates which police station handled the case. Another warning ... since then, the police district maps may have been redrawn ... you need to find the police station that has the cold case records on unsolved crimes, if those records are still accessible.

Then go ask there, what if anything they can tell you about the murder of your grandparent.

If no success, then go to city hall, to the office of the prosecutor or district attorney, and ask for guidance on where you can find the info you looking for.

Good luck.

Answer 3

If you are the pressumed victim then you need to contact the police department that handled that case in the state that supposedly this took place. If you have little to go on, check with your local libraries archives, they should be able to give a lead on what was printed. and perhaps that would take you to the next step.

Answer 4

I suggest you inquire at the police department that did the initial investigation. Also, inquire with the county clerk AND court clerk to see if there are any public records available.