Identification of Long Island Murder Victim
Authorities have finally identified a dismembered body found abandoned on Long Island in the 1980s as that of Susan Mann, a 15-year-old girl. Her remains, likely relocated from another grave, were discovered by police on Thursday.
Susan vanished from her home in Queens on May 17, 1980. Over two years later, her remains were located in a dumpster in Freeport, but her identity remained unknown until now.
“We will never give up,” emphasized Nassau County Police detective Colonel Steven Fitzpatrick during a news conference. “There are no cold cases. Only open cases.”
Fitzpatrick noted the advancements in DNA technology that helped break the case. “This is yet another example of how DNA technology is evolving and aiding investigations,” he remarked.
It was reported that Mann left home on her bike to retrieve her sister’s stolen pocketbook from school. Her body was discovered on November 4, 1982, in a trash can behind Cantergrass Works on North Main Street in Freeport, but investigators could not connect her to the missing girl at that time.
The remains of the girl, who had been buried as Jane Doe, were exhumed earlier this year for testing, utilizing modern DNA techniques unavailable during the 1980s, according to Fitzpatrick.
A necklace featuring the letter “K” was among the few clues found at the scene back in 1982.
Furthermore, Crime Stoppers is currently offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to an arrest in the case.
The identification was facilitated through the FBI’s Research Genealogy Program. Fitzpatrick mentioned that they believe Mann’s body was interred shortly after her disappearance, possibly moved later due to fears of it being uncovered during nearby construction.
“If anyone remembers anything about the construction site back in 1981 or 1982, we urge you to reach out,” he added.
The revelation of Mann’s murder has stirred a mix of emotions for her family, with Fitzpatrick noting, “It evokes a full range of feelings for those left behind.”
