In the realm of notorious crimes, the case of Evelyn Hartley stands out, especially in connection with infamously linked figure Ed Gein. This incident has gained renewed attention through Netflix’s portrayal in “The Ed Gein Story.”
Who Was Evelyn Hartley?
Evelyn Hartley was a 15-year-old honor student from La Crosse, Wisconsin. On October 24, 1953, she was babysitting for Viggo Rasmussen, a colleague of her father, Richard Hartley. Evelyn was expected to check in with her parents but failed to do so that evening.
The Disappearance
When Richard Hartley could not reach her after nine o’clock, he drove to the Rasmussen home. There, he found only her eyeglasses and a shoe. Evelyn had vanished without a trace.
The Investigation
The initial search for Evelyn involved police and sheriff’s deputies scouring the Rasmussen residence. They discovered bloodstains at various locations and an open basement window, suggesting an abduction had occurred. Her other shoe was found in the basement, further indicating a struggle.
Theories Surrounding Her Abduction
Authorities theorized that Evelyn may have gone to investigate a noise from the basement, leading to her encounter with her abductor. Eyewitness reports and physical evidence pointed to foul play, yet no ransom demands or contact from a kidnapper ever emerged, fueling suspicions that she had been killed.
Link to Ed Gein
Ed Gein, a notorious criminal arrested in 1957 for the murder of Bernice Worden, became a person of interest in Evelyn’s case due to his criminal history. Upon searching his home, authorities found disturbing evidence, including furniture made from human remains. This led to conjecture that Gein could have been involved in numerous disappearances, including that of Evelyn Hartley.
Speculation and Evidence
- Lieutenant Vern Weber dismissed claims linking Gein to Evelyn’s disappearance.
- Attempts to match dental records and other evidence proved inconclusive.
- Gein’s purchase of newspapers regarding Evelyn’s case was for his twisted interests, not indicative of guilt.
- A polygraph test conducted post-arrest ruled Gein out as a suspect in Evelyn’s case.
The Legacy of Evelyn Hartley’s Disappearance
Despite the absence of definitive evidence linking Ed Gein to Evelyn, rumors have persisted. Residents often speculate about his involvement, especially since he was in the neighborhood around the time she went missing.
Challenges of Proving Guilt
The community’s suspicion never translated into concrete legal evidence against Gein. Dramatic portrayals, such as those seen in Netflix’s “Monster,” embellish the story yet stray from factual accuracy regarding Evelyn’s tragic disappearance.
Ultimately, while Ed Gein remains a figure associated with violence and horror, the case of Evelyn Hartley is a reminder of the tragic, unresolved nature of some disappearances in history.
