
The Delphi Murders: Background
Madness Meter
Delphi Murders Case: Background
The Delphi Murders involve the deaths of two young girls in Delphi, Indiana, in February 2017. This post outlines the key facts of the case: the day of their disappearance, the setting, and the discovery of their bodies. These details lay the foundation for upcoming discussions on witnesses, suspects, theories, and evidence.
Who Were Abby and Libby?
Abigail Williams, 13, was described by her family as inquisitive, strong in character, and happiest outdoors—whether exploring nature, collecting bugs, or being around animals. Liberty German, 14, was remembered as independent, intelligent, and full of energy. She wanted the people around her to be happy and was described as “everything” by her loved ones. Both girls were remarkable as individuals and inseparable as best friends.
The Day of the Disappearance
On February 13, 2017, an unusually warm Monday in Indiana, school was canceled. After a sleepover, the girls had breakfast and decided to spend the afternoon on the Monon High Bridge Trail. Kelsey German, Libby’s older sister, dropped them off. They were expected to be picked up later that day, but they never returned.
At first, family and friends thought the girls might have gotten lost or distracted on the trail. By nightfall, concern escalated—especially since Libby was afraid of the dark. Authorities were contacted quickly, and the response was immediate. Over 300 volunteers, along with local police and firefighters, began searching the area. Delphi is a small community of about 3,000 people, and residents also spread the word through phone trees.
The Monon High Bridge itself was an abandoned railroad structure, deteriorated and dangerous, with missing planks and no functional purpose. It spanned Deer Creek and was surrounded by dense woods. During the search, a black Nike shoe belonging to Libby was found. Soon after, the bodies of both girls were discovered about a quarter mile from the bridge, in a wooded area. Their deaths were ruled homicides. Investigators have withheld many specific details, a strategy referred to as a “wall of secrecy,” intended to protect the integrity of potential confessions. Critics, however, argue this limited the public’s ability to assist.
One critical piece of evidence was a Snapchat video taken by Libby. It showed the girls walking across the bridge and captured an unidentified man approaching them. This video became the central lead in the investigation and remains one of the most significant pieces of evidence in the case.
Madness Meter Explained
Madness 🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬 (5/5): These were children, only 13 and 14 years old. The fact that someone targeted them—and that investigators had both video and audio of the suspect yet it still took years to solve—makes this case especially maddening.
Sleuthing 🕵️🕵️🕵️🕵️ (4/5): The investigation goes in many directions, with endless theories to chase. It’s a rabbit hole that can keep any armchair detective busy for hours.
Intensity ⚡⚡ (2/5): Although the injuries were brutal, investigators have kept most of the details hidden, leaving the most graphic aspects out of public view.
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What’s Next: Key Witnesses and Suspects
The next post will focus on key witnesses and persons of interest in the Delphi Murders. We will examine who was on the Monon High Bridge Trail that day, the statements given to law enforcement, and the individuals whose names became central to the investigation through police updates and media coverage.