Dark Downeast: The Disappearance of Eddie Segall (New Hampshire) – Episode Summary
Release Date: May 8, 2025
Introduction
In this gripping episode of Dark Downeast, investigative journalist and storyteller Kylie Lowe delves into the mysterious disappearance of Eddie Segall in Nashua, New Hampshire, back in 1977. Lowe meticulously unpacks the events leading up to Eddie's vanishing, the initial investigation's shortcomings, the resurgence of interest decades later, and the lingering questions that still haunt the case.
Background of Eddie Segall
Eddie Segall, a 33-year-old woman, relocated from Florida to Nashua, New Hampshire, in late 1976 under the promise of employment and housing. Within months of settling in, Eddie became a regular at the Women's World Gym and Spa in Merrimack, establishing a small social circle in her new environment.
The Disappearance
On June 15, 1977, Eddie was last seen leaving her residence around 1 PM to attend her routine 2:15 PM class at the health club. She borrowed a 1969 Oldsmobile 88 from the couple she was living with, Stephen and Rosalind. Dressed in blue jeans, a white tank top jersey, green sandals, and carrying a brown purse, Eddie was seen carrying only a towel as she departed.
Notable Quote:
"Eddie had nothing else but a towel with her, and off she went as the hours ticked steadily by."
— Kylie Lowe [02:20]
By the time the class began, Eddie was conspicuously absent. Concerns grew as evening approached when Eddie failed to return home, prompting her housemates to initiate a search. Eddie was officially reported missing by 1:14 AM on June 16, 1977.
Initial Investigation Shortcomings
The Nashua Police Department's response was notably sluggish, with almost two weeks passing before Eddie's disappearance received serious attention. During this period, Eddie's vehicle remained unaccounted for, allowing crucial evidence to potentially vanish.
Notable Quote:
"It seems as if almost two weeks passed before the unexplained absence of the Nashua newcomer received any serious consideration from law enforcement."
— Kylie Lowe [05:30]
On July 3, 1977, the abandoned Oldsmobile was discovered on a logging road in Hollis. Upon inspection, items including a black leotard, towel, a crushed leather cowboy hat, a folding army shovel, and other miscellaneous tools were found inside. Curiously, no forensic examination was conducted on the vehicle or its contents, leaving significant evidence untouched.
Life Circumstances and Potential Motives
Eddie's background revealed a tumultuous personal life, including a history of legal issues in Florida and associations that hinted at possible involvement in illicit activities. Her connection with a man referred to as "Charlie" raised suspicions, especially considering Charlie's erratic behavior and alleged attempts to rekindle a strained relationship.
Notable Quote:
"Charlie described Eddie as a, quote, 'challenge to him.' But then Charlie also admitted to Officer Manning that once Eddie was in the Northeast, he personally set up a meeting between Eddie and a client in Massachusetts, and she made $40."
— Kylie Lowe [09:45]
Eddie's association with another individual, "Brad," who admitted to facilitating Eddie's client meetings, further complicated the case, suggesting possible ties to the sex trade.
Reopened Investigation in 2010
After lingering unanswered questions and emerging evidence, the Hollis Police Department reopened Eddie's case in 2010. Lt. James Sartel acknowledged the original investigation's inadequacies, citing numerous loose ends and potential leads that were never explored.
Notable Quote:
"The original investigation didn't meet present day standards and said there were a lot of loose ends."
— Lt. James Sartel [14:52]
Collaborating with former investigators and interviewing key individuals, the renewed effort aimed to piece together Eddie's last movements and identify any overlooked evidence.
Recent Search Efforts and Current Status
Modern investigative techniques, including the use of cadaver dogs and ground-penetrating radar, were employed to locate Eddie's remains. In November 2011, Dr. Alan Gantz utilized sonar equipment to identify a disturbed area in Hollis' woods, indicative of a possible clandestine grave. However, this remains the last documented search effort, leaving the case unresolved.
Notable Quote:
"It appears that the person we've been calling, Brad, is deceased. But Charlie. Charlie is still out there."
— Kylie Lowe [38:09]
Despite these efforts, the whereabouts of Eddie Segall remain unknown. The investigation stands at a crossroads, with more than 30 years since her disappearance and minimal progress toward uncovering the truth.
Unanswered Questions and Theories
Several theories persist regarding Eddie's disappearance:
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Personal Conflict with Charlie: Charlie's volatile behavior and past confrontations with Eddie suggest he might have played a role in her vanishing.
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Involvement in Illicit Activities: Eddie's purported connections to the drug trade raise the possibility that she stumbled upon dangerous information or was entangled in criminal endeavors beyond her control.
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Unidentified Serial Offender: Initial research into potential serial killers in the area during the 1970s considers whether Eddie could be a victim in a larger pattern of crimes.
Notable Quote:
"What happened to Eddie Seagal? Did a meeting with a client turn dangerous? Is it possible that Charlie, angry that Eddie had moved on with Brad, did something to her? Or could it have been the theory that Officer Manning has suspected all along that Eddie was wrapped up in something illegal and she knew too much?"
— Kylie Lowe [40:25]
Conclusion and Call to Action
As Eddie Segall's case approaches its 48th anniversary, Kylie Lowe emphasizes the pressing need for information to finally solve this decades-old mystery. She urges anyone with relevant information to come forward, highlighting the importance of community involvement in bringing closure to Eddie's loved ones.
Notable Quote:
"Eddie needs to be found. Finding her remains could lead to critical information about what happened to her or even who was responsible, and she deserves the dignity of being laid to rest."
— Kylie Lowe [42:30]
Lowe concludes by encouraging listeners to reach out to law enforcement agencies with any tips, reinforcing the notion that time does not erase the truth.
Further Engagement
For those seeking more information or wishing to contribute to the case, Dark Downeast provides multiple avenues for contact, including police hotlines and their official website. Follow-ups and updates on the investigation are available through the podcast's Instagram page and official website.
This summary encapsulates the key elements of the episode, providing a comprehensive overview for those unfamiliar with the full discussion.