Can You Help Solve These Real-Life Cold Cases?

Introduction

Cold cases hold a unique place in the world of true crime. These are the unsolved mysteries that linger for years—sometimes decades—waiting for that one breakthrough, one lead, or one person to speak up. Advances in forensic science, renewed public interest, and online sleuthing have brought fresh momentum to many of these long-forgotten cases. And increasingly, everyday people—not just detectives—are playing a part in solving them.

Today, we highlight five real-life cold cases that remain open and deeply compelling. Each is haunting, frustrating, and filled with unanswered questions. As you read, consider: could you be the person who connects the dots?

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1. The Disappearance of Maura Murray (2004)

Haverhill, New Hampshire, USA

On February 9, 2004, 21-year-old nursing student Maura Murray left the University of Massachusetts Amherst, emailed her professors about a fabricated family emergency, and drove north into rural New Hampshire. Around 7 p.m., her car crashed on Route 112 in Haverhill. Several witnesses saw her at the scene, but by the time police arrived minutes later, she was gone—leaving behind her car, personal belongings, and no tracks in the snow.

Theories:

  • She staged her disappearance to start a new life.

  • She was abducted by a passerby.

  • She succumbed to the elements and was never found.

Despite countless documentaries, podcasts, and internet forums dedicated to her case, Maura’s fate remains unknown. The FBI even created a missing persons profile years later, indicating ongoing interest. Her family continues to search for answers.

2. The Long Island Serial Killer (2010–Present)

Gilgo Beach, New York, USA

In December 2010, police searching for missing sex worker Shannan Gilbert stumbled upon human remains buried along Ocean Parkway in Long Island. Over time, they discovered the bodies of 11 individuals, mostly women involved in escort services, scattered along the beach area. While one suspect, Rex Heuermann, was arrested in 2023 in connection to some of the murders, many remain unsolved and unaccounted for.

Known Victims:

  • Melissa Barthelemy

  • Megan Waterman

  • Amber Lynn Costello

  • Maureen Brainard-Barnes
    …and others, some unidentified.

Authorities believe the killings could span over a decade. The case underscores both the vulnerability of marginalized communities and the persistence of online communities that kept this story alive when it was largely ignored.