Authorities are currently investigating the sewer system beneath a rundown house in Philadelphia, known to be associated with at least two missing women. They’re on the lookout for DNA and any evidence suggesting chemicals that could have been used to dispose of bodies, according to sources.
This underground search is part of a larger investigation involving the FBI and local law enforcement examining ties between two missing women and a felon named Eugene Horsch. He was discovered to be hoarding hazardous chemicals, firearms, and drugs within his deteriorating three-story residence in Olney.
Frank Vanois, the deputy chief of detectives for the Philadelphia Police Department, revealed that police stumbled upon “strange contraptions” during their investigation, which included at least one 55-gallon drum linked to a water pipe. This prompted officials to enlist help from the local water department to further explore the sewer pipes underneath the home on Chew Avenue.
Search crews are looking for any remnants of DNA, evidence of chemical usage for body disposal, or indications of a drug lab, sources indicated.
In a further unnerving development, investigators found a handwritten note containing references to “setting up drums” and threats. In the note, which was obtained by media, Horsch mentioned acting impulsively: “When you act on emotion, you get into trouble.” He also noted having a two-foot zip tie ready and expressed a rather troubling lack of remorse.
Vanois addressed reporters, stating that an FBI evidence collection team, along with the Forensic Science Division of the Philadelphia Police Department, gathered significant amounts of dangerous materials from the house, alongside other crucial evidence for the ongoing investigation.
This material was sent to a lab for further examination, with the residence now being classified as safe. Vanois mentioned that if any DNA evidence arises, it may take a while to confirm, and that they’ve started interviewing individuals related to the case.
He expressed the complexity of the situation, mentioning that they are maintaining their presence around the house to ensure they can re-enter without needing to acquire a new warrant. So far, there hasn’t been any evidence of human remains discovered, aside from a few urns within the property.
The investigation into Horsch initiated on June 19 after a U.S. park ranger overheard a heated argument involving Horsch and his girlfriend in a vehicle near Independence Hall. When the ranger heard her say, “You’re going to hurt me,” he decided to investigate further, prompting law enforcement involvement.
Upon their arrival, authorities found Horsch with a fraudulent Drug Enforcement Administration badge, a switchblade, and two firearms with altered serial numbers. His girlfriend was found with a fake ID featuring her photo but identifying a woman who had been reported missing earlier this year.
The missing woman, whose name appeared on the ID, had last been seen in the Kensington area back in February, though officials have yet to disclose her identity. The girlfriend indicated that Horsch had given her the ID to use, as he had a warrant against him, and while she didn’t personally know the missing woman, she felt something was amiss.
The investigation led authorities to Horsch’s home, where an array of troubling items were located, including a substantial amount of ballistic evidence, various drugs, and a disturbing unsigned letter that referenced serial killer Ted Bundy.
It remains unclear whether the letter was a genuine correspondence or merely a prank. While Horsch faces charges related to firearms and drug possession, the investigation is ongoing. His attorney claims that the chemicals and other unsettling discoveries belonged to Horsch’s deceased father.
This situation has raised alarms among the family of Amy McHale, whose last contact was in 2016. In a voicemail, she reassured her mother that she was safe at the Olney home previously owned by Horsch’s father.
Horsch’s late father had a criminal history linked to drug manufacturing and counterfeiting and reportedly exploited vulnerable women. Amy McHale’s daughter, Amanda Stouffer, expressed disbelief over her mother’s disappearance, insisting that despite her struggles, McHale was a devoted parent.
As of now, neither the Philadelphia Police nor the Water Department has responded to inquiries for additional details.
