Despite the best efforts of investigators in the Cold Case Unit and local, state and federal law enforcement officials, sometimes the trail of evidence in a crime “goes cold.”
But that does not mean investigators give up on these cases.
In order to continue to seek justice for the victims of these crimes and hold the perpetrators accountable, the Cold Case Unit, State’s Attorney’s offices, and police continue to investigate these cold cases. The Cold Case Unit works closely with the law enforcement agency that originally began the investigation and the public in seeking new evidence and information that may lead to solving these crimes.
Please review below the Cold Case Unit’s current list of open cases and help law enforcement authorities bring justice for these victims. In some cases, there is reward money available to anyone with information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of perpetrators of these crimes.
Rewards are authorized under Section 54-48 of the General Statutes, which reads:
When any crime punishable by death or imprisonment for more than one year has been committed, the Governor, upon application of the state's attorney for the judicial district in which it has been committed, may offer, publicly, a reward not exceeding fifty thousand dollars, to the person who gives information leading to the arrest and conviction of the guilty person, or, if such guilty person has fled after conviction of a felony in a court of this state, to the person who gives information leading to the arrest and detention of the convicted felon, whether found within the state or elsewhere, which reward shall be paid to the informer by the state, by order of the court before which such conviction is had.
Anyone with information about these cases should contact the Cold Case Unit by calling 1-866-623-8058, clicking this link to the Cold Case Unit’s email account (cold.case@ct.gov) or sending a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence also can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067. All communications will be kept confidential.
October 10, 2022
Homicide of Nico Saraceni
New Haven
$25,000 Reward
Nico Saraceni, age 29, of Newtown, was stabbed to death outside 623 Whalley Avenue in New Haven on October 10, 2022. A witness reported seeing an unidentified heavy-set black male wearing a gray suit walking east on Whalley Avenue after Nico was stabbed. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined a signal stab perforated Nico’s heart and lung.
Nico, a talented writer, poet, and an avid enthusiast of all things film, was a student at Southern Connecticut State University at the time of his death.
Anyone with information is asked to call the New Haven Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit at 203- 946-6304, leave an anonymous tip at 1-866-888-TIPS or Text-a-tip plus your message to 74637 (CRIMES). The Cold Case Unit can be reached by calling 1-866-623-8058, clicking this link to the the Cold Case Unit’s email account (cold.case@ct.gov) or sending a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence also can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
August 2, 2020
Homicide of Jawara Stennett
West Haven
$55,000 Reward
Jawara Stennett, age 39, of Brooklyn, New York, was fatally shot on the Exit 43 on-ramp to Interstate 95 in West Haven at about 10 p.m. on August 2, 2020.
Jawara was on his way home to New York after leaving his father’s home in West Haven where he had attended a family birthday party. Police responding to the I-95 exit ramp that night following reports of a shooting there found Mr. Stennett suffering from a gunshot wound to his torso. His death was subsequently determined to be a homicide. Jawara left behind a loving family, including five children.
Investigators are interested in speaking with the operator of a white Lexus GX 460 sport utility vehicle with a Connecticut license tag that was seen on video footage driving north on Campbell Avenue near Interstate 95 in West Haven on August 2, 2020 at about 10 p.m. Video 1 Video 2.
Anyone with information about the shooting should contact Detective Sgt. Michael Beauton at michael.beauton@ct.gov, Detective Maxwell Robins at (860) 805-3167 and maxwell.robins@ct.gov or Division of Criminal Justice Inspector Herbert Johnson at (203) 687-6816 and herbert.johnson@ct.gov. Information can also be passed on to the Cold Case Unit by calling 1-866-623-8058, clicking this link to the the Cold Case Unit’s email account (cold.case@ct.gov) or sending a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence also can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
November 18, 2018
Homicide of Dominic Marino
East Hartford
$50,000 Reward
On November 18, 2018, a family member found Dominic Marino’s body inside his residence at 48 Suffolk Drive, East Hartford. He was found with his wrists and ankles bound with tape. An autopsy determined that Marino died from a gunshot wound to the torso and his death was classified as a homicide. The unknown suspect or suspects appeared to have forced entry into Dominic’s home. There was also evidence of a struggle.
The East Hartford Police Department and Dominic’s family are requesting assistance from the public with any information that may lead to the identification and apprehension of the suspects. If you have any information regarding this case, please contact the East Hartford Police Department at (860) 291-7640, the Cold Case Unit by calling 1-866-623-8058, clicking this link to the the Cold Case Unit’s email account ( cold.case@ct.gov) or sending a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence also can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
May 6, 2018
Homicide of Kelsey Mazzamaro
Burlington
$50,000 Reward
Kelsey Mazzamaro, age 26, of Litchfield, was found slain in Burlington on May 6, 2018. On that morning, Kelsey was found deceased by a passing motorist. Her death was subsequently determined to be a homicide. At the time of her death, Kelsey had two young children.
Kelsey was known to frequent the Waterbury and Torrington areas and investigators are asking that anyone with information concerning her whereabouts on May 5 or May 6 of 2018 contact the Cold Case Unit by calling 1-866-623-8058, clicking this link to the the Cold Case Unit’s email account (cold.case@ct.gov) or sending a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence also can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
September 24, 2016
Homicide of Nicholas Brown
Hartford
$50,000 Reward
Nicholas Brown, age 26, was fatally shot in Hartford on September 24, 2016. Nicholas was found suffering from multiple gunshot wounds outside of 160 Magnolia Street in Hartford and was taken to the hospital where he later died. At approximately 10:25 p.m. police had been alerted by the "Shot Spotter," an electronic system that detects possible gunfire. An autopsy identified a total of 18 gunshot wounds to the torso, head and extremities. Police recovered shell casings at the scene that had been fired from two different firearms, but no witnesses were located and no suspect has been identified.
Anyone with information about the homicide is asked to contact the Hartford Police Department. Tips may be left anonymously at (860) 722-8477 and at the Cold Case Unit by calling 1-866-623-8058, clicking this link to the the Cold Case Unit’s email account ( cold.case@ct.gov) or sending a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence also can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
September 7, 2016
Homicide of William Alvarado
Willimantic
$50,000 Reward
William Alvarado, age 73, was found slain in his home at 621 Valley Street in Willimantic on September 7, 2016.
Anyone with information should contact the Willimantic Police Department at (860) 465-3135 or call the Cold Case Unit at 1-866-623-8058. Emails should be sent to the Cold Case Unit’s account, and direct messages should be sent through the Connecticut DCJ Cold Case Unit Facebook page. Letters also can be sent to the Willimantic Police Department, 22 Meadow Street, Willimantic, CT 06226 or the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
October 21, 2015
Homicide of Ricardo Rivera
Hartford
$50,000 Reward
Ricardo Rivera was fatally shot in Hartford on October 21, 2015. On that evening at 10:16 p.m., Hartford police were called to the area of 7 Cherry Street on a report of shots fired. The caller reported hearing three gunshots, saw a “man down” and a silver Acura leaving the area with three males in it.
Officers arriving on the scene found Ricardo, age 19, suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. He was transported to the hospital where he died the next day. A second man also shot was taken to the hospital in a private vehicle before police arrived on the scene. He recovered from his injuries.
Only minimal evidence was recovered at the scene of the shootings and to date no witnesses have come forward. Anyone with information about the homicide is asked to contact Hartford Police. Tips may be left anonymously at (860) 722-8477 or by contacting the Cold Case Unit by calling 1-866-623-8058, clicking this link to the Cold Case Unit’s email account ( cold.case@ct.gov) or sending a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence also can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
April 19, 2015
Homicide of Jericho Scott
New Haven
$50,000 Reward
Jericho Scott, 16, was seated in a vehicle parked on Exchange Street near his home in New Haven when he was fatally shot shortly after midnight on April 19, 2015. Two other individuals standing near the vehicle were wounded in the same incident.
Investigators believe Jericho was hit with gunfire from a small or midsize silver or gray four-door sedan. The shootings are believed to have been in retaliation for an alleged robbery that occurred days before, but police do not believe Jericho was the intended target.
Anyone with information should contact the New Haven Police Investigative Services Division at (203) 946-6304 or the anonymous tip line at (203) 946-6296. Tips also can be submitted by text to 274637 or by email at ecic@newhavenct.gov and by contacting the Cold Case Unit by calling 1-866-623-8058, clicking this link to the the Cold Case Unit’s email account ( cold.case@ct.gov) or sending a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence also can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
March 25, 2015
Homicide of Hakeem "Sonny" Joseph
Bridgeport
$5,000 Reward
On March 25, 2015, Hakeem "Sonny" Joseph was fatally shot while working at his family's store, the T-Market, located at 1482 Reservoir Avenue in Bridgeport.
A masked gunman entered the store and fired multiple rounds at Joseph. There was no attempt at robbery.
The assailant was captured by recorded video surveillance of the market.
Anyone with information should contact the Bridgeport Police Department at 203-581-5224 or call the Cold Case Unit tip line at 860-548-0606 or 1-866-623-8058, write to the Cold Case Unit, P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067, or follow this link to email the Cold Case Unit. A direct message also can be sent to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page.
March 15, 2014
Homicide of Kristjan Ndoj
Shelton
$50,000 Reward
Kristjan Ndoj, age 15, was fatally shot in the driveway of a friend’s home on March 15, 2014.
Anyone with information should contact the Connecticut State Police at 860-685-8190 or 1-800-842-0200 or the Cold Case Unit at 1-866-623-8058, the Cold Case Unit’s email account (cold.case@ct.gov), the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page via direct message. Written correspondence also can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067
December 21, 2012
Homicide of Kyle Seidel
Waterford
$25,000 Reward
Kyle Seidel, a 34-year-old husband and father of three children, was fatally shot on December 21, 2012, in the parking lot outside of Family Bowl on the Boston Post Road in Waterford. Kyle was on the way to pick up takeout food for his family from the Lucky Inn Chinese restaurant at the time of the shooting, which occurred around 8 p.m.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Waterford Police Department tip line at 860-437-8080 or Waterford detectives at 860-442-0645 or 860-442-9451, or you may follow this link to e-mail the Cold Case Unit, or call the Cold Case Unit tip line toll-free at 1-866-623-8058. Direct message can be sent to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page and written correspondence can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
May 16, 2012
Homicide of Ashley Armstrong
New Haven
Ashley Armstrong was fatally shot in New Haven on May 16, 2012. The 21-year-old was found in a black Volkswagen Jetta located near Shelton Avenue and Munson Street. An autopsy determined she had been shot several times.
Anyone with information should contact the New Haven Police Department TIPS Hotline at 1-866-888-8477, text a tip to "NHPD plus your message" to 274637, call the Cold Case Unit tip line at 860-548-0606 or toll-free at 1-866-623-8058, write to the Cold Case Unit, P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067 or send an email the at this link to the email of the Cold Case Unit. Direct messages can be sent to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page.
December 23, 2011
Homicide of Joseph Zargo
New Haven
$25,000 Reward
Joseph Zargo was shot to death at 50 Houston Street in New Haven on December 23, 2011. The death was ruled a homicide and is being investigated by the New Haven Police Department.
Anyone with information should contact the New Haven Police Department TIPS Hotline at 1-866-888-8477, text a tip to "NHPD plus your message" to 274637, call the Cold Case Unit tip line at 860-548-0606 or 1-866-623-8058, write to the Cold Case Unit, P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067 or follow this link to email the Cold Case Unit. Direct messages can be sent to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page.
August 6, 2011
Homicide ofIriquois Alston and Rackita Smalls
Norwalk
$50,000 Reward
Iriquois Alston and Rackita Smalls were found shot to death in a parked car in Norwalk on August 6, 2011. Iriquois, age 27, and Rackita, age 22, were found in the back seat of the black Honda sedan parked in front of 4 Avenue B in Norwalk shortly before 8 a.m. Both had been shot in the head.
The Norwalk Police Department requests that anyone with information about these crimes contact the Norwalk Police tip line at 203-854-3111 or send a text message to CRIMES (274637) with the letters "NPD" in the text field followed by the information. Tips also may be submitted online at www.norwalkpd.com and by contacting the Cold Case Unit by calling 1-866-623-8058, clicking this link to the the Cold Case Unit’s email account ( cold.case@ct.gov) or sending a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence also can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
August 13, 2010
Homicide of Amos Brown, Jr.
Norwalk
$50,000 Reward
Amos Brown, Jr. was shot to death on August 13, 2010, on Lexington Avenue in Norwalk. The shooting occurred in the vicinity of the El Coqui Grocery.The suspects, believed to be three black males in their teens or early 20s, fled the scene in a silver or gray Chevrolet Malibu that was later recovered by police.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Norwalk Police Department Investigative Services at 203-854-3111, or the Cold Case Unit at 1-866-623-8058. Anyone with information can also click this link to the the Cold Case Unit’s email account (cold.case@ct.gov) or send a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence also can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
March 3, 2010
Homicide of Barbara Hamburg
Madison
$50,000 Reward
On Wednesday, March 3, 2010, Barbara Hamburg was found dead outside of her home at 44 Middle Beach Road West in Madison. The 48-year-old mother of two had suffered multiple blunt and sharp-force injuries.
Barbara was scheduled to appear in New Haven Superior Court that day for a status conference stemming from her 2005 divorce, but she never made it to the courthouse.
At 11:25 a.m., Madison police received a 911 call reporting an injured person. When police and emergency medical personnel arrived, Barbara was already deceased.
The case is being investigated by the Madison Police Department and the Cold Case Unit. If you have information, please contact the Cold Case Unit at 1-866-623-8058 and through the Cold Case Unit’s email account (cold.case@ct.gov). Tips can also be sent via direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT, 06067
September 2, 2009
Homicide of Timothy Coleman
Hartford
$50,000 Reward
Timothy Coleman was shot to death in Hartford on September 2, 2009. Police called to the area of 102 Edgewood Street in Hartford found Timothy, age 38, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He died later that evening from his wounds.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Hartford Police. Tips may be left anonymously at 860-722-8477, at the Cold Case Unit number at 1-866-623-8058 and through the Cold Case Unit’s email account (cold.case@ct.gov). Tips can also be sent via direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT, 06067.
June 12, 2009
Homicide of Tremaine Newton
West Haven
Tremaine "Twin" Newton, age 20, was found deceased in his car near the commuter parking lot located off Exit 42 of Interstate 95 in West Haven on June 12, 2009.
Tremaine was in the front seat of the Chrysler Concorde, which had been pushed down an embankment from the parking lot into an area of thick brush. He had been shot several times in the back of the head.
Anyone with information should contact the Connecticut State Police at Troop G in Bridgeport at 203-696-2500 or 800-575-6330, or call the Cold Case Unit at 860-548-0606 or 1-866-623-8058, write to the Cold Case Unit, P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067, follow this link to email the Cold Case Unit or send a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page.
July 20, 2008
Homicide of Jakeem Tully
Hartford
$50,000 Reward
On July 20, 2008, at approximately 2:10 a.m. Hartford Police were called to St. Francis Hospital after a person who had been shot was brought to the hospital in a private vehicle.
Subsequent investigation determined that the victim, Jakeem Tully, age 15, was brought to the hospital by two individuals who were driving by the market at 485 Albany Avenue when they saw him wounded and in need of assistance.
Jakeem had been shot twice. No one at the scene notified the police. He was pronounced dead at the hospital at 2:42 a.m.
If you have information, please contact the Hartford Police Major Crimes Unit at 860-757-4000, the Cold Case Unit at 1-866-623-8058 and through the Cold Case Unit’s email account (cold.case@ct.gov). Tips can also be sent via direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT, 06067.
June 5, 2008
Hit-and-Run Death of Gabrielle Lee
New Haven
$10,000 Reward
Gabrielle Lee, age 11, was fatally struck by a motor vehicle in New Haven on June 5, 2008. Police believe she was struck by a dark-colored Volkswagen Jetta as she crossed Whalley Avenue on her way to the Top Kat Super Laundromat. Gabrielle was a student at the Elm City College Prep charter school.
Anyone with information should contact the New Haven Police Investigative Services Division at (203) 946-6304 or the anonymous tip line at (203) 946-6296. Tips also can be submitted by text to 274637 or by email at ecic@newhavenct.gov and by contacting the Cold Case Unit by calling 1-866-623-8058, clicking this link to the the Cold Case Unit’s email account ( cold.case@ct.gov) or sending a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence also can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
February 28, 2007
Homicide of Javed Akhtar
East Windsor
$50,000 Reward
On February 28, 2007, Javed Akhtar was found slain outside his place of business, the One Stop Convenience Store located at 68 Depot Street in East Windsor. Investigation revealed that Javed, age 32, was shot during an apparent robbery attempt.
Anyone with information should call the East Windsor Police Department at 860-292-8240, the Cold Case Unit tip line at 860-548-0606 or toll-free at 1-866-623-8058, write to the Cold Case Unit, P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067 or send an email by following this link to email of the Cold Case Unit. Direct messages can be sent to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page.
December 31, 2006
Homicide of Erica Cirioni
Norwich
$50,000 Reward
Erika Cirioni, a 26-year-old Norwich woman, was last seen alive on New Year’s Eve 2006. Erika was reported missing by her mother on that day. Her remains were discovered off a road in an isolated area of Montville on March 25, 2012. Based on the circumstances of the case, her death is considered a homicide.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Norwich Police Department at 860-886-5561, the Cold Case tip line at 860-548-0606 or toll-free at 1-866-623-8058, by email by following this link or by regular mail at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067. Tips can also be sent via direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page.
February 23, 2006
Homicide of Sara Palenza
Hartford
$50,000 Reward
Sara Palenza, age 19, of East Hartford, was shot to death in Hartford on February 23, 2006.Sara was a front-seat passenger in a vehicle that was fired on as it traveled along Albany Avenue in Hartford just after midnight on that night.
If you have information, call the Hartford Police Department at 860-527-7300, follow this link to e-mail the Cold Case Unit, call the tip line at 860-548-0606 or 1-866-623-8058, send a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page or write to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
August 28, 2005
Homicide of Anne Caro
Mansfield
$50,000 Reward
Anne Caro was found dead in her Mansfield home on her 37th birthday on August 28, 2005. The cause of death was strangulation.
Anne was the mother of two young children. The physical evidence recovered from the scene and witness interviews have not identified the person or persons responsible for the crime.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Connecticut State Police Eastern District Major Crime Unit at 860-886-6603 or the State Police Message Center at 860-685-8190. Anonymous tips can be sent to: Crimes (274637) Text “Tip711 plus your message”. Tips can also be sent by following this link to e-mail the Cold Case Unit, calling the tip line at 860-548-0606 or 1-866-623-8058, sending a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page or writing to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
May 6, 2005
Homicide of Edward Bell, Jr.
Hartford
$50,000 Reward
On May 6, 2005, at approximately 11:20 p.m., Hartford police officers responding to the area of 110 George Street on reports of shots fired found Edward “Little Man” Bell, Jr., age 34, suffering from gunshot wounds. He was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.
If you have information, call the Hartford Police Department at 860-527-7300, follow this link to e-mail the Cold Case Unit, call the tip line at 860-548-0606 or 1-866-623-8058, send a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page or write to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
February 18, 2005
Homicide of Sandra Ramos-Cuadrado
Naugatuck
$50,000 Reward
On February 18, 2005, Sandra Ramos-Cuadrado was found stabbed to death in her residence at 70 Olive Street in Naugatuck.
If you have information, follow this link to e-mail the Cold Case Unit, call the tip line at 860-548-0606 or 1-866-623-8058, send a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page or write to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
The case is being investigated by the Naugatuck Police Department and the Cold Case Unit, assisted by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Forensic Science Laboratory, the Waterbury Police Department and the Office of the State's Attorney for the Judicial District of Waterbury.
September 2004
Homicide of Floyd W. Ellis, Jr.
Sharon
$50,000 Reward
On February 18, 2005, Sandra Ramos-Cuadrado was found stabbed to death in her residence at 70 Olive Street in Naugatuck.
If you have information, follow this link to e-mail the Cold Case Unit, call the tip line at 860-548-0606 or 1-866-623-8058, send a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page or write to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
The case is being investigated by the Naugatuck Police Department and the Cold Case Unit, assisted by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Forensic Science Laboratory, the Waterbury Police Department and the Office of the State's Attorney for the Judicial District of Waterbury.
September 15, 2004
Homicide of Maria Laura Capon Bravo Rojas
New Milford
$50,000 Reward
On September 15, 2004, Maria Laura Capon Bravo Rojas was found slain in her family’s New Milford business she operated with her husband, David’s Flooring, at 441 Danbury Road in New Milford. She was killed by multiple blows to the head and shoulder.Anyone with information should contact the New Milford Police Department at 860-355-2000 or the Office of the State’s Attorney for the Judicial District of Litchfield at 860-567-0871. Follow this link to e-mail the Cold Case Unit with information or a tip or call the tip line at 860-548-0606 or 1-866-623-8058. Tips can also be sent via direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page or through written correspondence to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
Missing since August 24, 2004
William "Billy" Smolinski, Jr.
Waterbury Area
$60,000 Reward
William “Billy” Smolinski, Jr., was last seen on August 24, 2004, when he asked a neighbor in Waterbury to watch his pet dog for a few days while he went to look at a car he was interested in buying. The 31-year-old left behind his truck, wallet and keys.
The case is being coordinated by the Office of the Chief State’s Attorney. Participating in the investigation are the Connecticut State Police Western District Major Crime Squad, the Seymour Police Department, Shelton Police Department and Waterbury Police Department.
More information on the case can be found at www.justice4billy.com or by following this link to visit the website of the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System.
Follow this link to e-mail the Cold Case Unit with information or a tip or call the tip line at 860-548-0606 or 1-866-623-8058. Tips can also be sent via direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page or through written correspondence to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
June 20, 1999
Homicide of LaDawn Roberts
Hartford
$30,000 Reward
On June 20, 1999, Hartford Police responded to the rear porch of 272 Garden Street where officers found the partially clad body of LaDawn Roberts, age 28, of Hartford.
LaDawn was last seen alive in the area of Albany Avenue and Garden Street at approximately 11 p.m. on June 19, 1999. Earlier that day she was seen on Edgewood Street in Hartford. She was known to frequent the Upper Albany neighborhood, particularly Edgewood and Cabot streets.
She was 5 feet tall and weighed approximately 130 pounds and was five months pregnant at the time of her death.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Hartford Police Department at 860-527-7300 or the Cold Case Unit at 1-866-623-8058. Tips can also be sent by clicking this link to the the Cold Case Unit’s email account (cold.case@ct.gov) or sending a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence also can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
December 4, 1998
Homicide of Suzanne Jovin
New Haven
$150,000 Reward
Suzanne Jovin, a 21-year-old senior at Yale University, was stabbed to death near the corner of Edgehill Road and East Rock Road in New Haven on December 4, 1998.
This investigation is now being handled by the New Haven State's Attorney's Office, which continues to pursue investigative leads in an effort to solve this tragic murder. Authorities are interested in all available information or leads, no matter how remote or trivial that information may seem, and want to hear from anyone who has heard something, seen something, or who may even have repressed the knowledge of something that could be related to the murder of Suzanne. Please contact the New Haven Police Department at 203-946-6316 or the New Haven Judicial District State’s Attorney’s Office at 203-503-6823. The Cold Case Unit can be reached at 1-866-623-8058. Tips can also be sent by clicking this link to the the Cold Case Unit’s email account (cold.case@ct.gov) or sending a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence also can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
September 24, 1998
Homicide of Agnieszka Ziemlewski
Farmington
$50,000 Reward
On September 24, 1998, Agnieszka (Agnes) Ziemlewski, age 26, was found shot to death on a walking trail on the Metropolitan District Commission (MDC) Reservoir property near Old Mountain Road in Farmington.
Agnes emigrated to this country from Poland with her family in the early 1980s. She had lived in Hartford with her parents and two sisters before moving to an apartment of her own in West Hartford. Agnes graduated from the University of Connecticut and was working at United Health Care in Hartford at the time of her death.
Anyone with any information regarding this case is urged to call the Farmington Police Department Detective Unit at 860-675-2462 or 860-675-2460. The Cold Case Unit can be reached at 1-866-623-8058. Tips can also be sent by clicking this link to the the Cold Case Unit’s email account (cold.case@ct.gov) or sending a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence also can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
September 12, 1996
Rhonda Johnson and Corán Johnson
Stamford
Rh
onda
Johnson and her six-month-old son, Corán, were found fatally shot in her blue
Toyota Camry on Thursday, September 12, 1996, on Grenhart Road between Victory
Street and Diaz Street in Stamford.
Eighteen-year-old Rhonda had picked up her son from his babysitter’s home on Oaklawn Avenue in Stamford around 3:30 p.m. and was scheduled to start a shift at 4 p.m. at Stamford Hospital where she worked as a dietary aide.
Johnson’s family grew worried when they learned she had not showed up for work and had not contacted anyone to explain why. A passerby on Grenhart Road observed Rhonda slumped over the steering wheel of her car and notified emergency services shortly before 8 p.m.
Both Rhonda and Corán were killed by gunshot wounds to the head. Rhonda, a part-time college student, was a graduate of Westhill High School in Stamford.
The case is being investigated by the Stamford Police Department and the Cold Case Unit. Anyone with information about these homicides should contact the Stamford Police Department or call the Cold Case Unit at 1-866-623-8058 or contact the unit through the Cold Case Unit’s email account (cold.case@ct.gov). Tips can also be sent via direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT, 06067.
March 21, 1996
Homicides of Champaben Patel and Anita Patel
Windsor
$50,000 Reward
On March 21,1996, the bodies of Champaben Patel and her daughter Anita were found in their family home in Windsor. Champaben Patel had been strangled and her body was burned. Anita had been stabbed and her body was burned.
Investigators believe Champaben Patel was killed first, in the bedroom of her home. They further suspect that Anita Patel and her two children arrived at the house while the attack was occurring, and that Anita told the children, then ages 3 and 5, to leave the house. The children ran from the house and were found by a woman walking to her mailbox, who called the police. Anita Patel was stabbed in the kitchen of the house. Gasoline was poured around her body and set afire. Although she had been stabbed 14 times, an autopsy determined she died of smoke inhalation.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Cold Case Unit number at 1-866-623-8058 or contact the unit through the Cold Case Unit’s email account (cold.case@ct.gov). Tips can also be sent via direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT, 06067.
October 29, 1995
Homicide of Leah Ulbrich
Hartford
$50,000 Reward
On Sunday, October 29, 1995, at approximately 4:49 a.m., Hartford Police received 911 calls about a woman being dragged by a motor vehicle from Locust Street west on Elliott Street toward Wethersfield Avenue in Hartford.
The caller described the car as similar to a 1995 or recent year Nissan Maxima or similar make. Another caller, using a fire emergency telephone at the corner of Elliott Street and Wethersfield Avenue, observed the female being dragged by the car south on Wethersfield Avenue toward Wethersfield. The female caller was never identified.
Just prior to the 911 calls, a Hartford Police Officer patrolling north on Wethersfield Avenue near Elliott Street observed a small dark color car enter Wethersfield Avenue from Elliot Street and travel south with no headlights on. The officer observed something unidentifiable being dragged from the passenger side of the vehicle. The officer pursued the car without success. The officer followed a discernable trail of liquid left on the pavement to the area of Jordan Lane near Ridge Road in Wethersfield.
The officer located the victim, with extensive injuries, lying against the northern curb of Jordan Lane. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene by responding Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). An autopsy performed at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined the cause of death as extensive blunt trauma and certified the manner of death as a homicide. The victim was identified as Leah Ulbrich, age 24, of Hartford and New Britain.
Since October 29, 1995, the Hartford Police Department and the Wethersfield Police Department have conducted an intensive investigation into the murder of Leah Ulbrich. Numerous extensive interviews have been conducted and forensic evidence analyzed. In November 2001, a joint investigation was initiated between the Hartford Police Department, the Wethersfield Police Department and the Cold Case Unit of the Office of the Chief State's Attorney.
Follow this link to e-mail the Cold Case Unit with information or a tip about the case or call the tip line at 860-548-0606 or 1-866-623-8058. Tips can also be sent via direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT, 06067.
September 5, 1994
Homicides of Gladys Punch and Warren Tarkington
West Haven
$20,000 Reward
Gladys Punch, age 72, and her brother, Warren Tarkington, age 75, were fatally shot in St. Lawrence Cemetery in West Haven on Labor Day, September 5, 1994, while they were visiting the grave of Gladys' husband. Police were called to the scene around 2:30 in the afternoon after being notified by a witness that two people were lying prone in the cemetery. The two victims were located among the headstones on near Forest Road.
If you have any information, call the Cold Case Unit number at 1-866-623-8058 or contact the unit through the Cold Case Unit’s email account (cold.case@ct.gov). Tips can also be sent via direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT, 06067.
May 6, 1992
Gary Potak
Bridgeport
On May 6, 1992, Gary Potak and Charles “Chick” Gombrewicz (now deceased) drove to Father Panik Village in Bridgeport to purchase marijuana.
As they circled the housing project two males crossed the street in front of their vehicle. Gary Potak was driving and stopped to let these two individuals cross. One of these males walked over to driver's side of the car and asked Gary Potak what he was looking at. Gary answered that he wanted to buy “pot." This male pulled out a gun and told the two to get out of the car. The passenger (Gombrewicz) exited the vehicle and heard gun shots and ran off. The passenger later learned that Potak had been fatally shot.
The case is being investigated by the Bridgeport Police.Follow this link to e-mail the Cold Case Unit with information or call the tip line at 860-548-0606 or 1-866-623-8058. Tips can also be sent via direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT, 06067.
September 7, 1990
Homicide of Nancy Valentin
Stratford
$50,000 Reward
On September 7, 1990, at approximately 10:45 p.m. Nancy Valentin, age 31 was found lying on the pavement in the parking lot of Rose’s Family Restaurant at 595 South Main Street in Stratford. Nancy was employed as a waitress at Rose’s and had just left work for the evening.
Nancy was transported to the hospital where she later died. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined that the cause of death was a gunshot wound.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Stratford Police Department at 203-385-4100,the Cold Case Unit number at 1-866-623-8058 or contact the unit through the Cold Case Unit’s email account (cold.case@ct.gov). Tips can also be sent via direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page. Written correspondence can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT, 06067.
July 28, 1990
Homicide of Joseph Mackanesi
Stratford
$5,000 Reward
On July 28, 1990, at approximately 2:00 a.m., Joseph Mackanesi, age 32, flagged down a police patrol car near the intersection of Soundview and Barnum Avenues in Stratford and reported that he had been shot by two black males who had attempted to rob him. Joseph was transported to the hospital where he later died. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined the cause of death was a gunshot wound.
Mr. Mackanesi was employed in the local area as a truck driver and food salesman prior to his death.
If you think you can provide any information, call the Stratford Police Department at 203-385-4100, the Cold Case Unit tip line at 860-548-0606 or 1-866-623-8058, write to the Cold Case Unit, P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067, follow this link to email the Cold Case Unit or send tips via direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page.
February 10, 1990
Homicide of Luis Gonzalez
Bridgeport
Luis Gonzalez was shot outside of the Vega Alta grocery store owned by his parents at 1160 State Street in Bridgeport on February 10, 1990.
The 16-year-old Bassick High School student and star athlete had been summoned outside to speak to an unidentified person wearing a black ski mask. Luis was shot multiple times. He was taken to Park City Hospital in Bridgeport where he died.
Anyone with information should call Bridgeport Police at (203) 581-5205, the Cold Case Unit tip line at 860-548-0606 or 1-866-623-8058, write to the Cold Case Unit, P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067, follow this link to email the Cold Case Unit or send tips via direct message to theCold Case Unit’s Facebook page.
June 18, 1987
Homicide of Marie Techlowec Nielsen
New Britain
$20,000 Reward
Marie Techlowec Nielsen's body was found by her teenaged son on June 18, 1987 after he gained entrance to their New Britain apartment through a window. (He had earlier given his key to the apartment to his mother who had locked her keys in her car.)
The victim's body was found face down on the bed in her bedroom. The cause of death was determined to be asphyxia by strangulation.
Follow this link to e-mail the Cold Case Unit with information or call the Cold Case Unit toll-free at 1-866-623-8058 or 860-548-0606 in the Hartford area. Direct mail can be sent to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page or write to the Cold Case Unit, P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT, 06067.
March 14, 1986
Homicide of an Unidentified Infant
Fairfield
$25,000 Reward
On the morning of March 14, 1986, the mutilated body of a 1-day-old baby boy was found near a wooded picnic area of Lake Mohegan Town Park in Fairfield. The infant had been strangled and his death was ruled a homicide.
The mutilation of the child's face was determined to have occurred after he was killed. The infant's injuries appear to have been ritualistic in nature and may possibly be related to a religious practice known as Palo.
Anyone with information should contact the Fairfield Police Department at 203-254-4840, follow this link to e-mail the Cold Case Unit, call the Cold Case Unit tip line at 860-548-0606 or toll-free at 1-866-623-8058, send a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page or write a letter to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
January 1986
Homicide of Pamela Jerome
Bridgeport Area
$20,000 Reward
Pamela Jane Jerome was found deceased on January 13, 1986, in a wooded area on property owned by the Bridgeport Hydraulic Company on Valley Road in Redding. She had been strangled.
Pamela was known to have engaged in prostitution in the Bridgeport area. It is believed that she was sexually assaulted before she was strangled.
Anyone with information should contact the Connecticut State Police Western District Major Crime Squad at 203-267-2200 or 800-375-9918. Or call the Cold Case Unit tip line at 860-548-0606 or 1-866-623-8058. Written correspondence can be sent to the Cold Case Unit, P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 0606, a direct message may be sent to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page or follow this link to email the Cold Case Unit.
September 12, 1985
Homicide of Carmen J. DeLuca
East Windsor
On September 12, 1985, a patron of the all-night Gas & Save found the manager, Carmen J. DeLuca, fatally wounded inside of the temporary office trailer for the business located at 163 Bridge Street in East Windsor. Investigators determined that Carmen was shot in an apparent robbery but could locate no witnesses to the crime.
Approximately three hours later, a clerk of an AM/PM convenience store in Orange, Connecticut, was shot by a black male during an armed robbery. The bullet recovered from that clerk matched the bullet removed from Carmen. The suspect in the Orange robbery was described as a black male 5’8" tall to 6’0" tall, very slender and approximately 18-25 years of age. The victim of the Orange robbery also described the suspect as being the passenger in a silver four-door Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham.
The case is being investigated by the East Windsor Police Department in conjunction with the Connecticut State Police Central District Major Crime Unit, the Office of the State’s Attorney for the Judicial District of Hartford and the Cold Case Unit in the Office of the Chief State's Attorney.
Anyone with information should follow this link to e-mail the Cold Case Unitor contact the East Windsor Police Detective Division at 860-292-8240, the Cold Case Unit Tipline at 860-548-0606 or 1-866-623-8058, send direct mail to theCold Case Unit’s Facebook page or write to the Cold Case Unit, P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT, 06067.
Missing Since August 31, 1984
Homicide of Mary Badaracco
Sherman
$50,000 Reward
Mary Badaracco was reported missing from her Sherman home on August 31, 1984. State Police said she was last seen by her husband, Dominic, a Danbury businessman and bar owner, 11 days earlier. In 1990, State police reclassified Mary’s disappearance as a homicide.
Anyone with information should contact the Cold Case Unit at 1-866-623-8058. Emails should be sent to the Cold Case Unit’s account, and direct messages should be sent through the Connecticut DCJ Cold Case Unit Facebook page. Letters also can be sent to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
September 1982
Homicide of Julieanne Miller
Old Saybrook
$50,000 Reward
On September 29, 1982, Julieanne Miller was reported missing to the Old Saybrook Police Department by her father, who is now deceased. She was last seen at her residence in the company of her boyfriend on September 22, 1982. She is presumed dead but her body has not been recovered.
If you have information, follow this link to e-mail the Cold Case Unit, call the Cold Case Unit Tip Line at 1-866-623-8058 or at 860-548-0606, send direct mail to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page or write to the Cold Case Unit, P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT, 06067.
January 14, 1997
Homicide of Thera Wilson
Hartford
$50,000 Reward
On January 14, 1977, the body of Thera Wilson, age 26, was found in the garage of the then-Statler Hilton Hotel at 10 Ford Street in Hartford. The victim, also known as Thera Wilson, Theresa Wilson and Mona Williams, had been stabbed to death. At the time of her death, the victim had been engaged in prostitution.
In 1977, numerous leads were pursued by the Hartford Police Department, all with negative results. In March of 2006, at the request of the Hartford Police Department, the case was re-opened with the assistance of the Cold Case Unit of the Office of the Chief State's Attorney.
Anyone with information is requested to call 860-548-0606 or 1-866-623-8058 or e-mail the Cold Case Unit by following this link. Direct mail also can be sent to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page or write to the Cold Case Unit, P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT, 06067.
October 13, 1973
Homicide of Janette Couture
East Hartford
$50,000 Reward
Janette Couture was found deceased in her apartment in East Hartford on October 13, 1973. An autopsy determined she had been stabbed and her death was ruled a homicide.
East Hartford Police Detectives are reviewing case evidence complied over the years and continue to investigate all “persons of interest.” Anyone with any information is encouraged to contact the East Hartford Police confidential tip line at 860-289-9134, follow this link to e-mail the Cold Case Unit, call the Cold Case Unit tip line at 860-548-0606 or toll-free at 1-866-623-8058, send a direct message to the Cold Case Unit’s Facebook page or write a letter to the Cold Case Unit at P.O. Box 962, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.