Keddie, California harbors a chilling secret from 1981. A brutal crime shook this quiet resort town, claiming four innocent lives. The tragedy left the nation in disbelief1.The Keddie Cabin Murders remain unsolved after 42 years. This puzzling case highlights the fragile nature of safety. It also underscores the ongoing pursuit of justice1.The victims were Glenna “Sue” Sharp (36), her children John (15) and Tina (12), and Dana Wingate (17). These four lives were tragically cut short in this horrific incident1.
On April 12, 1981, Sheila Sharp (14) came home to Cabin 28. She had no idea of the horror awaiting her12. Inside, she found a gruesome scene.Her mother, brother, and their friend were brutally murdered. Her younger sister Tina was nowhere to be found13.The Keddie Cabin Murders are not just about the brutal killings. The case is filled with unanswered questions that still puzzle investigators. Despite decades of probing, it remains one of America’s most baffling unsolved crimes2.
Let’s explore this complex case further. We’ll look at the victims, crime scene, and ongoing search for answers. Our goal is to shed light on this dark chapter in true crime history.
Overview of the Keddie Cabin Murders
The Keddie Cabin Murders shook California on April 11, 1981. This brutal cold case rocked the peaceful town of Keddie. It remains one of California’s most infamous unsolved crimes4.
Brief Summary of the Events
That night, four people were brutally killed in Cabin 28 at Keddie Resort. The victims were Glenna “Sue” Sharp, her children John and Tina, and John’s friend Dana Wingate45.
The crime scene was gruesome. Two knives, two hammers, medical tape, and electrical wires were found. These items were used to bind the victims4.
Sheila Sharp, 14, found the bodies the next morning after a sleepover. The discovery changed her life forever56.
Strangely, three boys were found unharmed in a bedroom. Ricky and Greg Sharp, with Justin Eason, claimed they slept through everything46.
The Victims’ Background
Sue Sharp, a single mom of five, had moved to Keddie five months earlier. The family sought a fresh start, unaware of the looming tragedy4.
Tina Sharp, the youngest victim, wasn’t found at the crime scene. Her remains were discovered three years later, 30 miles from Keddie46.
| Victim | Age | Relation |
|---|---|---|
| Glenna “Sue” Sharp | 36 | Mother |
| John Sharp | 15 | Son |
| Dana Wingate | 17 | John’s Friend |
| Tina Sharp | 12 | Daughter |
This horrific crime puzzled investigators for 35 years. It haunted the community and sparked many theories. In 2016, new evidence emerged, rekindling hope for justice45.
Timeline of the Incident
The Keddie Cabin Murders rocked Keddie, California on April 11, 1981. This tiny town of fewer than 100 people became the scene of a horrific crime7.
The brutal attack claimed the lives of the Sharp family and their friend Dana Wingate. Victims were found bound and showed signs of stabbing and blunt force trauma7.
Critical Dates and Events
The night’s events unfolded in a chilling sequence. Key moments paint a picture of the tragedy that struck Keddie7.
- 9:00 PM, April 11: An unknown green van was spotted near the Sharp’s cabin7
- 1:00 AM, April 12: Estimated time of the murders based on neighbor reports of muffled screaming8
- 1:30 AM: A family nearby reported hearing muffled screaming or a loud groan7
- 7:00 AM: Sheila Sharp, Sue’s 14-year-old daughter, discovered the crime scene8
Key Witnesses and Their Testimonies
Witness accounts were crucial in piecing together the night’s events. Sheila Sharp’s discovery launched the investigation. Neighbors’ reports of disturbances helped pinpoint the crime’s timing7.
Three children – Rick, Greg, and Justin Eason – survived unharmed in the home. Their testimonies have been vital to ongoing investigative podcast efforts8.
The Keddie Cabin Murders still fascinate true crime fans. With one living suspect and potential accessories, hope for solving this decades-old mystery remains8.
Investigative Process
The Keddie Cabin murders led to a big investigation by Plumas County sheriff Doug Thomas. The remote location and limited 1981 forensic tech made solving the case tough.
Initial Steps
Investigators secured the crime scene and gathered key evidence. The victims were bound with cords and tape, hinting at a planned attack.
Autopsies showed multiple stab wounds, blunt force trauma, and strangulation as death causes9. The cabin had no forced entry signs, with an open back door and turned-off lights.
This odd detail raised questions about the killer’s familiarity with the victims9. It made the case even more puzzling for investigators.
Key Leads and Suspects
The criminal investigation revealed several suspects. Sue’s ex-husband Jim Sharp was first suspected but had a solid alibi.
Later, Marty Smartt and John Boubede became potential suspects based on a child’s dream sketch9. The case reopened in 2010, bringing new evidence to light.
Marty Smartt confessed to his therapist about the murders. A DNA-verified letter from Smartt hinted at his involvement in the killings9.
By 2018, six potential suspects were identified. DNA evidence linked back to a living suspect. A hammer found in 2016 matched one missing from Smartt’s home9.
The Victims: A Closer Look
The 1981 Keddie cabin murders shocked a small California community. Four lives were lost, sparking a decades-long investigation. The tragedy deeply affected the victims’ families and the town10.
Tina, Sue, and Their Family Background
Sue Sharp, 36, moved to Keddie with her five children after separating from her husband. She sought a fresh start with Johnny (15), Tina (12), Sheila (14), Greg (5), and Rick (10)10.
This Family Tragedy happened in cabin 28, seven miles from Quincy, California11.
That night, Sue, Johnny, and family friend Dana Wingate (17) were brutally murdered. The killers bound, stabbed, and beat them with a hammer10.
Tina Sharp went missing. Her remains were found three years later in 19841011.
Connections Among the Victims
The Sharp family had recently moved to Keddie. Dana Wingate, Johnny’s friend, was staying at the cabin that night10.
Sheila Sharp, 14, discovered the bodies. She later wrote a book about her experiences and theories10.
This Family Tragedy has haunted the survivors for over 35 years. Sheila, now 50, hopes for closure through renewed investigation efforts11.
The case continues to interest law enforcement and online sleuths. They all work to solve this enduring mystery.
Theories Surrounding the Murders
The Keddie cabin murders remain unsolved after four decades. This chilling true crime mystery has captivated investigators and the public. Various theories have emerged to explain this haunting case.
Investigative Theories
Initially, law enforcement thought it was a random attack. Later, they suspected someone known to the victims. The lack of forced entry into Cabin 28 supported this idea12.
Martin “Marty” Smartt became a key suspect. He allegedly confessed to a therapist, but this lead wasn’t pursued at the time13.
In 2013, the case reopened with new evidence. A hammer potentially linked to the murders was found. DNA evidence also pointed to living individuals who might be involved12.
Public Theories
True crime fans have developed their own ideas. Some believe Tina Sharp was the main target. Former Sheriff Greg Hagwood noted the unusual nature of leaving three bodies while abducting one victim13.
Others think organized crime might be involved. The brutal attack fueled this speculation. An anonymous 911 caller referenced the murders before Tina’s remains were identified13.
This caller seemed to have inside knowledge. It led to public speculation about a possible cover-up or wider conspiracy.
| Theory | Supporting Evidence | Challenges |
|---|---|---|
| Known Assailant | No forced entry | Motive unclear |
| Tina as Primary Target | Abduction of Tina | Excessive violence for one target |
| Organized Crime | Brutality of attack | Lack of clear connections |
The Keddie cabin murders continue to baffle investigators. Many questions remain unanswered in this perplexing true crime case12.
Unsolved Mysteries and Challenges
The Keddie Cabin murders remain a baffling cold case. Four victims were brutally killed in 1981, with one child vanishing. This tragic event stumped investigators for about 43 years14.
It’s part of a pattern of unsolved crimes in the Sierra Nevada region. These cases highlight the difficulties law enforcement faces in remote areas14.
Obstacles in the Investigation
The investigation hit many roadblocks from the start. Victims were found tied up and stabbed, making evidence collection tricky15. The cabin’s remote location challenged forensic teams, possibly causing them to miss clues.
Jurisdiction issues and limited resources slowed progress. These problems mirror other cold cases like the Cleveland Torso Murderer. That case saw 12-20 victims killed between 1935 and 1938, with no suspects found15.
Unexamined Evidence
Key evidence remains unexamined or lost to time. The Feather River Bulletin ran classified ads in early April 1981 that might hold clues14. Their importance is still unclear.
Like the unsolved Beaumont Children case from 1966, the Keddie murders lack solid physical evidence15. This gap in forensic data frustrates modern Crime Scene Investigation efforts. The case stays open, leaving victims’ families without closure.
Media Coverage and Public Interest
The Keddie Cabin Murders have gripped public attention for decades. This brutal crime occurred on April 12, 1981. It involved the deaths of Sue Sharp, Johnny Sharp, and Dana Wingate, with Tina Sharp missing16.
The shocking incident sparked intense media coverage. It has remained in the spotlight for over 35 years17.
Initial Media Response
News outlets quickly picked up the story. The crime’s gruesome nature and Tina’s disappearance fueled public curiosity. Media focused on Quincy, a small town of 2,000, and the nearby Keddie Resort16.
Continued Media Attention
The case has kept public interest through various media formats. In 2017, North Bank Entertainment released “Cabin 28,” a horror film inspired by the murders16.
TV shows have also covered the case. People Magazine Investigates aired episodes discussing the ongoing investigation17.
The 2013 reopening of the investigation reignited media coverage. New developments, like finding a potential murder weapon, kept the case visible18.
| Media Type | Example | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Film | “Cabin 28” | 2017 |
| Television | People Magazine Investigates | Ongoing |
| News Coverage | Local and National Outlets | 1981-Present |
The ongoing fascination with the Keddie Cabin Murders shows media’s impact on cold cases. Investigators are confident about solving the case. Media keeps this decades-old mystery alive in public consciousness16.
Impact on the Community
The Keddie Cabin Murders of April 12, 1981, deeply scarred the small resort town. It changed the character of Keddie and its residents’ lives forever19. The brutal killing of four people shocked the community, causing fear and distrust among neighbors19.
Psychological Effects on Keddie Residents
The murders had a profound impact on the town’s psychology. Residents struggled with the fact that such a terrible crime happened in their close community19. The attack occurred just 10 feet from neighbors, adding to the trauma19.
Three boys were left unharmed in the same cabin during the attack. This knowledge added to the psychological stress experienced by locals3. Fear took hold of the town as the investigation continued without answers.
The Community Impact showed in the decline of tourism, a key economic driver for Keddie. This downturn caused financial problems for many residents. It added to the emotional burden of the tragedy.
Changes in Community Safety Measures
Keddie put new safety measures in place after the murders. Residents became more watchful, adding security systems and starting neighborhood watch groups. Eight investigators were sent in, showing the case’s importance19.
Despite these efforts, the murders’ impact led to cabin 28’s demolition in 2004. This act showed the community’s struggle to move on19. The unsolved case, now 42 years old, still haunts Keddie19.
Recent Developments in the Case
The Keddie cabin murders case has seen progress in recent years. In June 2013, investigators reopened the case. This brought new hope to solving the decades-old mystery20.
New Evidence Emerges
In 2016, a key piece of evidence surfaced. A steel, blue-handled claw hammer was found in a pond near Keddie. This hammer matches suspect Marty Smartt’s description and is being analyzed20.
In 2018, DNA evidence from the crime scene linked to a living suspect21. This shows how advanced forensics can help solve cold cases.
Advances in Forensic Technology
Modern forensics allow investigators to reexamine old evidence. They’re analyzing a 911 recording from an anonymous caller about Tina Sharp’s remains20. New audio and DNA tests offer fresh leads.
The new investigation has identified six living “persons of interest”20. A letter from suspect Marty Smartt reads like a confession. These findings have energized the search for justice.
The Keddie murders remain unsolved, but progress continues. Sheriff Greg Hagwood said, “There is no expiration date on homicides”2021. This shows the ongoing commitment to solving the case.
The Role of True Crime in Society
True crime stories have captivated audiences for decades. Cases like the Keddie Cabin Murders maintain a strong grip on public interest. This genre has grown into a cultural phenomenon across various media platforms.
Popularity of True Crime Stories
The Keddie murders, which occurred in April 1981, still fascinate true crime enthusiasts today20. The case’s complexity involves brutal killings and a disappearance. These elements fuel ongoing speculation and interest20.
True crime stories often highlight unsolved mysteries, keeping cold cases visible. The Keddie murders investigation reopened in June 2013. This shows how public interest can impact law enforcement efforts20.
Impact on Law Enforcement
Public fascination with true crime can spark renewed investigative efforts. In the Keddie case, at least six persons of interest have been identified20. New evidence, like a claw hammer, has emerged near Keddie.
True crime stories also pressure law enforcement to solve cold cases. Sheriff Greg Hagwood stated, “There is no expiration date on homicides”20. This reflects ongoing commitment to resolving cases, partly driven by public interest.
| Impact of True Crime | On Society | On Law Enforcement |
|---|---|---|
| Raises awareness | Keeps cold cases in public eye | Generates new leads |
| Educates on criminal justice | Sparks public discussions | Increases pressure to solve cases |
| Provides catharsis | Builds community engagement | Encourages resource allocation |
Conclusion and Ongoing Questions
The Keddie Cabin Murders of April 12, 1981, remain one of America’s most chilling unsolved cases. Four victims fell prey to a brutal attack in Keddie, California. This horrific crime has cast a long shadow over the community for over four decades2223.
Justice remains elusive, with countless questions unanswered. The quiet town still grapples with the shocking events that unfolded that fateful night.
Summary of Key Points
The investigation faced challenges from the start. Cabin 28 in the Keddie Resort yielded little evidence, with no signs of forced entry23.
The discovery of Tina Sharp’s skull 50 miles away three years later deepened the mystery24. Despite numerous leads, the case remained cold for 32 years until its reopening in 201324.
Current State of the Investigation
The pursuit of justice continues today. Investigators have identified at least six people of interest and are reexamining the murder weapons24.
True crime enthusiasts and media keep the case in the public eye. They balance awareness with respect for the victims’ families.
Like 50% of U.S. homicides, the Keddie case remains unsolved. Hope persists that forensic advances will bring closure to this haunting mystery22.
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Source Links
- The Keddie Murders: Inside The 40-Year-Old Case Of America’s Most Confounding Quadruple Homicide – https://allthatsinteresting.com/keddie-cabin-murders
- Hidden Details To Be Shared in The Keddie Murders Cold Case – https://medium.com/@authorcm9/hidden-details-to-be-shared-in-the-keddie-murders-cold-case-4077547113cf
- The Keddie Murders: Secrets, Suspects, and Missing Pieces – https://www.10minutemurder.com/blog/the-keddie-murders-secrets-suspects-and-missing-pieces/
- Cold Case – The Keddie Cabin Murders – https://www.thoughtco.com/cold-case-the-keddie-cabin-murders-4108811
- Keddie Cabin Murders: Authorities Are Still Investigating Slaying of Mom, Kids – https://people.com/crime/keddie-cabin-murders-1981-people-magazine-investigates/
- The Unsolved Keddie Cabin Murders: A Case That Baffled Investigators – https://medium.com/cold-case-chronicles/the-unsolved-keddie-cabin-murders-a-case-that-baffled-investigators-74f118648a30
- The Keddie Murders — Unresolved – https://unresolved.me/keddie
- The Murders in Cabin 28 – https://medium.com/the-crime-logs/the-murders-in-cabin-28-1f05a20c6122
- Unsolved in California: The Case of the Keddie Cabin Murders – https://lostsoulsofamerica.wordpress.com/2022/01/12/unsolved-in-california-the-case-of-the-keddie-cabin-murders/
- Keddie Cabin Murders: Sheila Sharp Fights for Answers in Killing of Mom, Siblings – https://people.com/crime/keddie-cabin-28-murders-sheila-sharp-update/
- Inside the Search for the Keddie Cabin Killers 35 Years After a Family Was Slaughtered – https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/inside-search-keddie-cabin-killers-140027250.html
- The Chilling Unsolved Case of the Keddie Cabin Murders – https://www.thevintagenews.com/2024/01/12/keddie-cabin-murders/
- The Keddie Cabin Murders: The Real Story Behind Cabin 28 – https://coldcaseexplorations.com/california-cold-or-unsolved-cases/the-keddie-cabin-murders-the-real-story-behind-cabin-28/
- New “Classified Theory” About The Keddie Murders Tells A Different Story – https://medium.com/@authorcm9/new-classified-theory-about-the-keddie-murders-tells-a-different-story-bea9db6e1c92
- 20 Of The Creepiest Unsolved Mysteries Ever…They’ll Keep You Up At Night – https://collective.world/20-of-the-creepiest-unsolved-mysteries-ever/
- Keddie Cabin Murders: 5 Things to Know About 1981 Killings of Mom and Kids – https://people.com/crime/keddie-cabin-28-murders-5-things-know/
- People Magazine Investigates After Show: New Clues in Keddie Cabin Murders – https://people.com/crime/people-magazine-investigates-offers-new-clues-on-keddie-cabin-murders-giving-survivor-a-little-more-hope/
- 35 Years Later, New Clues May Solve Keddie Murder Mystery – https://www.cbsnews.com/sacramento/news/35-years-later-new-clues-may-solve-keddie-murder-mystery/
- Keddie Murders: California’s quadruple homicide – https://www.crimeandinvestigation.co.uk/article/the-keddie-murders-californias-infamous-quadruple-homicide
- Keddie Cabin 28 Murders: Why the Plumas Sheriff Revived Cold Case Investigation – https://people.com/crime/keddie-cabin-28-murders-new-investigation-sheriff-hagwood/
- Keddie murders – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keddie_murders
- The Keddie Cabin Murders – https://vocal.media/criminal/the-keddie-cabin-murders
- The Keddie Cabin Murders: A Cold Case That Haunts Time – https://medium.com/@victoria.vlkva/the-keddie-cabin-murders-a-cold-case-that-haunts-time-729c23b659e0
- The Disturbing Murders at Keddie Cabin – https://buzzfeed-unsolved.fandom.com/wiki/The_Disturbing_Murders_at_Keddie_Cabin
