Identification of Church Murderer After Over 60 Years

After more than six decades, officials have identified the man responsible for the tragic rape and murder of nine-year-old Carol Ann Dougherty in a church in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. This revelation, announced by Bucks County District Attorney Jennifer Shawn, comes following a detailed investigation by a grand jury.

The grand jury’s 53-page report concluded that William Schrader was the sole individual involved in the crime that took place at St. Mark’s Church on October 22, 1962. This was based on various forms of evidence, including eyewitness accounts and a recent confession from a family member of Schroeder.

“This heartbreaking case has haunted our community for more than 60 years, inflicting profound pain on Carol Ann’s family,” Shawn stated. “Even with the passing of time, this incident has never been forgotten and continues to be a priority for law enforcement.”

At a press conference on October 29, 2025, Dougherty’s sister, Kay Dougherty Taranka, shared her emotional reaction. “Our family has lived with these unanswered questions, and the uncertainty surrounding Carol’s death has shaped our lives,” she said. “This discovery finally brings some truth and closure to a wound that never seemed to heal.”

According to the findings, Carol Ann was last seen riding her bicycle to the local library before stopping for snacks. When she didn’t return, her father sadly found her body inside the church. Investigators determined she had been both raped and strangled.

Schrader, who worked at a nearby factory, had given a hair sample to the police during earlier questioning. However, he failed a polygraph test and investigators discovered inconsistencies with his alibi, as his timecards indicated he was not at work that day. Following his questioning, he left the area, ultimately residing in Louisiana.

A significant breakthrough occurred in November 2024 when Robert LeBlanc, Schrader’s son-in-law, disclosed to investigators that Schrader had confessed to killing Carol Ann on two occasions, stating he felt the need to silence her. This information aided the grand jury’s investigation.

The report also indicated that of the 141 men tested over the years, Schrader was the only individual who could not be ruled out as the source of DNA evidence found at the scene. Other suspects from the initial investigation were ruled out after careful reevaluation.

Investigators revealed a troubling pattern in Schrader’s past involving violence and sexual offenses against minors, including compelling testimony about his abusive behavior towards those he had access to. Clinical psychologist Dr. Véronique Vallière analyzed his behavior, describing him as having exhibited psychotic tendencies and a lack of self-control.

The Bucks County officials expressed hope that this resolution brings peace to Carol Ann’s family and all those impacted by the tragedy. Officer Joe Moores from the Bristol Borough Police emphasized the importance of this investigative work, stating that it has finally provided answers to both the family and the community.