The Deck Podcast – Episode: William Alvarado (Ace of Spades, Connecticut) Summary
Introduction
In this compelling episode of The Deck, host audiochuck delves deep into the chilling unsolved case of William Alvarado, known as the "Ace of Spades," from Willimantic, Connecticut. Released on January 8, 2025, this episode unravels the complexities surrounding William's tragic death, the meticulous investigation efforts, and the relentless pursuit of justice by his family and law enforcement.
Background: William Alvarado’s Life
William Alvarado was a cherished resident of the John J. Ashton Towers, a public housing apartment complex housing over 100 residents, many of whom were elderly, disabled, or living with mental illnesses. William, originally from Puerto Rico, moved to Connecticut as a teenager and led a life marked by generosity and social engagement despite his limited education. His brother, Oscar Alvarado, and niece, Melissa, describe William as a kind-hearted individual who frequently helped neighbors and collected cans for extra income to assist those in need.
Key Quote:
- Oscar Alvarado: "He was helpful, kind, loving. He would help others in need, even if he didn't know them." [16:02]
- Melissa Alvarado: "He really, more than anything, just wanted friends." [16:02]
The Night of the Crime: September 7, 2016
On the night of September 7, 2016, at approximately 2:00 AM, first responders received a call for a medical emergency at William's apartment in the Towers. Paramedics and firefighters arrived expecting to assist William but instead found him deceased, sprawled in a chair, covered in blood. Initial observations suggested a violent struggle, but no visible wounds were apparent until the medical examiner repositioned William and discovered a deep stab wound to his neck.
Key Quote:
- Detective Eric Dean: "Detectives bagged up all those knives in the house, along with a few other items of evidence that they'd spotted right away, like a phone and a pack of Newport cigarettes sitting on a table near William's body." [07:04]
Investigation Begins: Collecting Evidence
Investigators meticulously combed through William's apartment, collecting over 20 knives of varying sizes, a pack of cigarettes (which stood out as William was a non-smoker), his phone, and a crucial single drop of blood. Outside the apartment, police focused on nearby dumpsters known for high foot traffic, hoping to find discarded evidence such as the murder weapon or DNA from the perpetrator.
Key Quote:
- Detective Eric Dean: "We collected a large amount. We call it an inventory of weapons or tools that we didn't know if they were used or not." [08:22]
Suspects and Leads: Carmen’s Involvement
A significant lead emerged involving Carmen, a woman nearly 30 years younger than William, who lived a few doors down with her boyfriend, Pablo. Carmen had developed a close relationship with William, offering to help manage his medications and receiving financial assistance in return. Concerns arose when William began feeling threatened, reporting unexplained heating of stove burners and expressing fears for his safety.
Carmen was placed under scrutiny as the last known person to see William alive and the one who discovered his body. Despite initial suspicions, DNA tests revealed that neither Carmen nor Pablo matched the unknown DNA profiles found at the crime scene. Nevertheless, the family believed Carmen might have been entangled in a rivalry or manipulative relationship that could have led to William's demise.
Key Quote:
- Detective Eric Dean: "He just was someone that kept to himself, wanted to enjoy people around him and have friends and company and just have companionship. And sadly that included people with bad intentions." [17:11]
- Taylor: "Whomever is responsible, I believe knew him... I think it's more personal and I think the wound and his appearance suggests that." [10:04]
Family’s Pursuit of Justice
Oscar and Melissa Alvarado became proactive in seeking answers, conducting their own canvassing of the Towers, distributing flyers, offering rewards, and advocating for increased rewards from the state. Their relentless efforts culminated in a $50,000 reward, significantly higher than their initial $2,000, thanks to their collaboration with Detective Dean.
Key Quote:
- Oscar Alvarado: "He kept telling me he felt scared there for his life because he felt threatened and he was afraid of his life that somebody would do something harmful on him." [28:51]
- Melissa Alvarado: "She deserves all the credit in the world for this because she would not let it go, and nor should she." [32:37]
Breakthrough: Anonymous Tip via Playing Cards
A pivotal moment in the investigation occurred when an anonymous informant, flipping through a deck of cold case playing cards distributed in Connecticut prisons, recognized William's photo. This led him to contact the Cold Case Unit, offering information about William's killer. The informant identified someone known to the community with a history of criminal activity and strong ties to the Towers.
Key Quote:
- Detective Eric Dean: "They were able to corroborate a lot of what he told them. In fact, most of what he told them checked out." [37:52]
Advancements in Technology and Ongoing Investigation
With the introduction of advanced video enhancement technology, previously corrupted surveillance footage from the Towers was restored, allowing detectives to examine the tapes frame by frame. This technological leap provided fresh insights and brought investigators closer to identifying the suspect. Additionally, ongoing DNA retesting aimed to match unknown profiles with new persons of interest, heightening hopes of solving the case.
Key Quote:
- Taylor: "The technology and resources that we didn't have in 2016... have opened the door." [39:39]
Community Fear and the Path to Closure
Fear permeates the Towers community, with residents hesitant to come forward, either out of fear or uncertainty. Detective Dean emphasizes the importance of community cooperation, urging anyone with information to step forward to ensure safety and bring closure to William's family. Despite the challenges posed by mental illnesses among residents and reluctance to speak, the combination of family advocacy and investigative breakthroughs keeps the hope alive.
Key Quote:
- Detective Eric Dean: "They need to connect their person of interest to William’s murder... His criminal activities... have a history... he's a menace." [42:09]
- Oscar Alvarado: "Nothing will ever be the same without his brother again." [43:53]
Conclusion: A Pursuit of Justice
As the episode draws to a close, there remains a steadfast belief within the investigative team and William's family that justice is attainable. With enhanced evidence analysis and the unwavering determination of those seeking answers, the case of William Alvarado stands on the brink of resolution. The episode serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of community involvement and the relentless pursuit of truth in bringing closure to enduring cold cases.
Final Appeal:
- Detective Eric Dean: "We just want someone to come forward and to speak up and to do the right thing in order to keep that community safe and to give and bring William justice and closure to our family." [42:59]
Call to Action
Listeners are encouraged to contribute any information they might have regarding William Alvarado's murder by contacting the Willimantic Police Department or the Connecticut Cold Case Unit Tip Line. Your tip could be the key to solving this haunting mystery and ensuring justice for William.
Contact Information:
- Police Department: 860-465-3135
- Tip Line: 1-866-623-8058
- Email: cole.caset.gov
For more information and to stay updated on the case, visit thedeckpodcast.com.
This episode of The Deck masterfully intertwines personal narratives, investigative details, and ongoing efforts to shed light on a case that has long sought resolution. It's a testament to the power of persistence, community involvement, and the relentless quest for justice.