A Walk Through the Woods: The Unfolding of the Delphi Murders
Dateline NBC presents "A Walk Through the Woods," an in-depth exploration of the harrowing true-crime case that has gripped Delphi, Indiana, since the tragic murders of two young girls, Liberty German and Abigail Williams. Released on February 25, 2025, this episode delves into the intricate investigation, the community's anguish, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
Introduction
The episode opens with Lester Holt setting the tone for the story:
“[00:01] Lester Holt: A true crime story never really ends. Even when a case is closed, the journey for those left behind is just beginning.”
This narrative primes listeners for a deep dive into a case that has not only shaken a small community but also highlighted the enduring quest for closure.
The Tragic Events of February 13, 2017
On a serene February day, Liberty German (14) and Abigail Williams (13) ventured into the woods near Delphi, Indiana, for a simple walk:
“[00:47] Andrea Cann: Two girls set out for a walk through the woods. ... And then this is the trail. A trail that ends here at an old railroad bridge.”
Their peaceful outing took a fatal turn near the abandoned Monon High Bridge. The brutal murders were discovered hours later, sending shockwaves through the tightly-knit community:
“[01:12] Lester Holt: They were taken from them. Those girls matter.”
Initial Investigation and Community Response
Sheriff Tony Liggett of Carroll County led the initial investigation, describing Delphi as a safe haven disrupted by this heinous crime:
“[02:34] Tony Liggett: Carroll County. Delphi is a great place to raise your family. People felt safe.”
As day turned to night, the urgency of the search intensified, yet no immediate leads surfaced. The community mobilized, with residents joining the exhaustive search efforts:
“[03:15] Liggett: Very high up. Yeah. Yep. ... They just vanished.”
Emerging Suspects: Ron Logan and Keagan Klein
The investigation first focused on Ron Logan, a local with a troubling past but no direct evidence linking him to the murders. Despite multiple accusations from women alleging harassment and assault, Logan maintained his innocence:
“[05:47] Connie Dillman: I just told him that I felt that it was Ron Logan. ... He was abusive.”
Subsequently, Keagan Klein emerged as another suspect after using a fake social media profile, Anthony Schatz, to solicit explicit photos from young girls. Despite initial suspicions, solid evidence connecting Klein to the murders remained elusive:
“[10:25] Jennifer OJ Brad Rosie: ... he was asking for those because she had told people that he was asking.”
Breakthrough: The Arrest of Richard Allen
Years into the investigation, a significant breakthrough occurred when Kathy Schenck, a dedicated volunteer, uncovered a overlooked tip leading to Richard Allen, a 50-year-old Delphi resident. Allen's connection was cemented by forensic evidence linking his firearm to the crime scene:
“[18:45] Liggett: It was a match. ... Very high up.”
Despite Allen's initial cooperation, inconsistencies in his alibi and subsequent confrontations escalated suspicion. His trial revealed damning evidence, including confessions recorded while incarcerated, which he later recanted:
“[22:10] Dr. Monica Walla: ... I think I killed them.”
The Trial and Conviction
Richard Allen's trial became a focal point of national attention. The prosecution presented a compelling case based on forensic evidence, witness testimonies, and incriminating confessions:
“[30:25] Prosecutor Nicholas McClelland: This is about bridge guy. ... Two young girls who were murdered.”
The defense, however, challenged the validity of the ballistic evidence and portrayed Allen as a misunderstood individual, contending that the evidence was circumstantial and tainted by investigative oversights:
“[34:55] Defense Attorney: There's a difference between fired bullets and unfired bullets ejected from a gun after it's been racked. ... They were comparing apples and oranges.”
After weeks of deliberation, the jury found Allen guilty on all charges:
“[40:10] Libby's Cousin Sadie: ... It was like our nightmares coming to a close.”
Aftermath and Community Healing
The conviction provided a semblance of closure to the grieving families and the Delphi community. In honor of Liberty and Abigail, the families established Abby and Libby Memorial Park, transforming their sorrow into a space for community gatherings and remembrance:
“[47:30] Becky Petty: We decided we were going to buy bleachers for the girls softball field. ... Abby and Libby Memorial Park.”
Conclusion
"A Walk Through the Woods" encapsulates the profound impact of the Delphi murders, highlighting the relentless efforts of law enforcement, the unwavering support of the community, and the enduring pain of the victims' families. Through meticulous storytelling and poignant interviews, Dateline NBC offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of a case that underscores the complexities of seeking justice in the face of tragedy.
Notable Quotes
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Lester Holt [00:01]: “A true crime story never really ends. Even when a case is closed, the journey for those left behind is just beginning.”
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Tony Liggett [02:34]: “Carroll County. Delphi is a great place to raise your family. People felt safe.”
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Connie Dillman [05:47]: “I just told him that I felt that it was Ron Logan. ... He was abusive.”
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Kathy Schenck [18:50]: “This is bridge guy. ... We need to talk to that guy.”
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Prosecutor McClelland [30:25]: “This is about bridge guy. ... Two young girls who were murdered.”
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Sadie Moudy [40:15]: “It was like our nightmares coming to a close.”
Final Thoughts
This episode serves as a testament to the resilience of a community and the tireless pursuit of truth and justice by those involved. "A Walk Through the Woods" not only recounts a tragic event but also celebrates the strength and solidarity that emerge in the darkest of times.
For those seeking a deeper understanding of this case and others like it, follow Dateline NBC for more compelling true-crime stories and in-depth investigations.