The murder of Carol Sue Claber, a 16-year-old girl who vanished from a park in Boone County, Kentucky in 1976, has haunted investigators and the local community for decades. Her story is a chilling reminder of the dark side of human nature and the enduring power of hope for justice, even after decades of unanswered questions.
The Disappearance and Discovery
Carol Sue, known for her vibrant personality and love for socializing with friends at Devou Park, was last seen alive on June 4, 1976. Witnesses observed her leaving the park with an unidentified man driving a two-door car, possibly a Pontiac Grand Prix or a Chevy Monte Carlo.
Tragically, Carol Sue’s life was cut short. The following morning, a dentist driving to work made a grim discovery on Chambers Road: a young woman’s body lying near a culvert. The victim was identified as Carol Sue, and the cause of death was determined to be homicide.
Kentucky State Police investigators at a crime scene in 1976
The Early Investigation
The initial investigation, spearheaded by Detective Jerry Keith, encountered numerous obstacles. Despite their tireless efforts, years turned into decades without a significant break in the case. Detective Keith remained dedicated to finding Carol Sue’s killer, carrying the weight of this unsolved case with him throughout his career.
A Fresh Look at a Cold Case
In 2017, Detectives Coy Cox and Tim Adams inherited the cold case, determined to bring closure to Carol Sue’s family and seek justice for her tragic death. They meticulously reviewed the original case files, chasing down leads and re-interviewing witnesses. Two potential suspects emerged, both with ties to the area and criminal histories. However, DNA testing ruled out both men.
A Breakthrough in the Lab
Determined to uncover the truth, Cox and Adams turned to Othram Labs, a cutting-edge laboratory specializing in genetic genealogy. This innovative technology had the potential to unlock the secrets hidden within the decades-old DNA evidence. The Season of Justice, a non-profit organization dedicated to funding DNA testing for cold cases, provided crucial financial support for this endeavor.
Within months, Othram Labs delivered a promising lead: a potential match for the DNA profile from the crime scene. The suspect, however, was deceased. Undeterred, the detectives pursued familial DNA testing, focusing on the deceased individual’s relatives. The results were conclusive: the DNA matched, identifying Thomas Dunaway as Carol Sue’s killer.
A Shocking Revelation
The identification of Thomas Dunaway sent shockwaves through the investigation. Dunaway had a chilling connection to Boone County – he had committed another murder just six months after Carol Sue’s death. Convicted for the December 1976 murder of Ronnie Townsend, Dunaway served a mere seven and a half years in prison before his release in 1984. He died in 1990.
Closure for a Grieving Family
While a trial for Carol Sue’s murder is impossible, Detectives Cox and Adams were determined to bring closure to her family. Meeting with Carol Sue’s brother, they shared the news that his sister’s case had been solved.
The relief on his face was palpable. He confided in the detectives, revealing that he had carried the weight of his sister’s unsolved murder for years, even suspecting someone he knew. Finally, he had an answer. The identification of Dunaway brought a sense of peace and closure to a family haunted by tragedy for almost five decades.
Justice Prevails, Though Belated
The resolution of Carol Sue Claber’s case serves as a powerful testament to the importance of perseverance, technological advancements in forensic science, and the dedication of law enforcement professionals. While nothing can erase the pain of her loss, the truth, finally revealed after 46 long years, brings a sense of justice for Carol Sue and her family.