This Tree Helped Solve a Murder
How traditional detective work met innovative science to bring justice in a haunting case of love, betrayal, and tragedy.
In October 2019, a young mother and engineer vanished without a trace, leaving behind a one-year-old child and many unanswered questions. This event unfolded in Columbia, Missouri, where the local police were faced with a challenging case.
The woman, known for her dedication to her family and her promising career, seemed to have disappeared overnight. Initial reports from her husband raised immediate concerns due to their inconsistency and lack of urgency. Despite the lack of physical evidence initially, the investigation quickly intensified, uncovering resentments hidden beneath the surface of a seemingly happy family.
A Mysterious Disappearance
The case began on October 10, 2019, when local police first made contact with Joseph Ellidge. He reported that his wife had not been seen since October 8. He claimed to have gone to bed with their child and, upon waking, found that his wife was missing. Notably, her phone and wedding ring were left behind, suggesting she had not planned to leave for a long duration.
