Victim: Jane Prichard, 28-year-old female
Date of Incident: September 20th, 1986
Location: 502 Blackbird Forest Road, Smyrna, DE 19977
Community: Blackbird Forest
Investigation Details:
Jane Prichard, a graduate student at the University of Maryland studying botany, was found dead in Blackbird Forest State Park on the evening of September 20th, 1986, by two campers. Detectives determined she was fatally shot with an unknown firearm. She was last seen alive shortly after 10:00 AM by a hunter, who provided detailed descriptions of her clothing, vehicle, and scientific equipment.
Detectives are seeking to identify a possible suspect or witness. A composite sketch depicts a white male with a beard, approximately 5’9″ to 5’10” tall, medium build, wearing a brown jacket and blue jeans.
If you have any information regarding this case, please contact the New Castle County Division of Police Criminal Investigations Unit at 302-395-8110 or email: Coldcase@Newcastlede.gov
The victims and families of our unsolved cases are not forgotten. Ongoing efforts by the New Castle County Division of Police and the Criminal Investigations Unit’s Cold Case Unit are being made to bring about a resolution to each case. Additionally, if you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a violent crime or has lost a loved one to sudden death and needs assistance, the New Castle County Division of Police Victim Services Unit is available to offer you support and resources through (302)395-8000.
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