Deep Dive
Why did Joan Risch's disappearance on October 24, 1961, in Lincoln, Massachusetts, become a significant mystery?
Joan Risch, a 30-year-old homemaker, vanished on October 24, 1961, in Lincoln, Massachusetts, leaving behind a bloody kitchen and no body. Her husband was out of town, and her children were left unattended. The scene suggested a violent struggle, but Joan's body was never found, making it a no-body homicide.
Why did the kitchen scene suggest a violent struggle?
The kitchen was covered in blood, with significant blood pools, smears, and a contact transfer of blood on the wall. The phone receiver and cord were pulled off the wall and placed on a trash can, and a small table that usually held the kitchen telephone was overturned in the hallway. These details indicated a violent interaction.
Why were the fingerprints found at the crime scene significant?
Three fingerprints found at the scene did not match anyone in the family or known visitors. One was a bloody print on the telephone, and two others were on the wall near the telephone. These prints, if identified, could lead to the perpetrator, although they have not been matched to anyone in the FBI's database.
Why did the investigators believe Joan was likely a victim of homicide despite the lack of a body?
The significant amount of blood in the kitchen, the violent scene, and the presence of unexplained fingerprints suggested that Joan had suffered a violent attack. The blood patterns indicated a bleeding injury, and the scene suggested that Joan was likely moved after being attacked.
Why did the social norms of 1961 make Joan a potential target?
In 1961, homemakers like Joan often had predictable patterns and were home alone during the day while their husbands were at work. This made them vulnerable to attacks, as potential offenders could observe and predict their routines without the threat of a male presence.
Why did it take so long for the police to be notified after Lillian found the bloody scene?
Barbara Barker, the neighbor, and another woman, Mary Jane Butler, took about 45 minutes to search the house and call the police. They may have been in shock and unsure of what they were seeing, which delayed their response. Additionally, the lack of immediate recognition of the severity of the situation and the absence of a 911 system contributed to the delay.
Shownotes Transcript