5 Evansville Area Cold Cases You Could Help to Solve

Despite their best (and often tireless) efforts, local law enforcement investigators don't solve every case. The reasons why could be any number things, potential leads don't pan out, evidence is scarce, etc. But, that doesn't mean they give up. While they may not be focusing the same original effort on these cold cases, they remain open investigations in hopes new evidence may come to light, including five from right here in Evansville.

According to the National Institute of Justice, how long a case remains open before it's considered "cold" varies from agency to agency. Once all leads have been exhausted, and no new evidence comes light, a case becomes cold, whether that's after a few months, or a few years.

With that said, regardless of the amount of time that's passed since the investigation began, the hope someone or something will come forward that leads to a conclusion is always there. If you or someone you know has any information on one of the following cases from the Indiana State Police's cold case files that can provide closure for all parties involved, contact local authorities.

The Disappearance of Aleah Beckerle

While not listed on the Indiana State Police's cold case database, the disappearance of 19-year-old special needs teenager, Aleah Beckerle of Evansville remains unsolved since she was first reported missing eight months ago on July 17th, 2016.

The most recent publicly-released activity surrounding the case took place back in September when local authorities responded to a call of possible human remains on Weinbach Avenue, just south of I-69. After a thorough search, authorities determined the remains were those of an animal.

The family continues the search, having hired a private investigator, and creating the "Bring Aleah Home" group on Facebook to allow the public to share any information they may have.

The Murder of Harold Koester

According to the ISP, 57-year-old Griffin, Indiana resident, Harold "Pat" Koester, was found dead near his driveway back in August 2009 from an apparent gunshot wound. With no solid leads on the case, his murderer remains at large today.

The Murder of Amanda Lee Vanscyoc

19-year-old Vanscyoc's body was found near the Ohio River in "rural Warrick County" on November 13th, 2001 according to ISP records. Investigators determined strangulation to be the cause of death. However, an archived article about the murder on the 14 News website notes a disturbing twist in the investigation when investigators discovered semen from her stepfather on her body. Amanda's mother stood by her husband who died in a car crash several years later. The investigation is ongoing.

The Murder of Joseph Carl Vincent

The body of then 49-year-old Joseph Carl Vincent was found near the intersection of 1st Avenue and Kratzville Road on Evansville's north side with multiple gun shot wounds on July 16th, 1982, according to the ISP. Making this case peculiar is the fact the pickup truck he was driving was located three miles away from where his body was discovered.

The Disappearance of Teresa Rideout

Then 53-year-old Chandler, Indiana resident, Teresa Rideout was reported missing by a friend on September 11th, 1994, and hasn't been heard from since according to the ISP record of her case. Investigators at the time believed foul play was involved.

If you have any information that could provide a new lead to anyone of these cases, contact the Indiana State Police District Investigative Commander by calling 1-812-867-2079 or 1-800-852-3970.