BREAKING: Authorities have arrested Jamison ‘Jamie’ Fisher, 50, in connection with the 29-year-old cold case of missing 11-year-old Trudy Appleby. Fisher was charged with three counts of first-degree murder and concealment of a homicidal death, just one week before the 29th anniversary of Trudy’s disappearance on August 21, 1996, near her home in Moline, Illinois.
In a dramatic turn of events, Moline Police Chief Darren Gault announced the arrest on Thursday, stating, “The arrest of Fisher marks a turning point in this mystery that has spanned nearly three decades.” He emphasized the relentless pursuit of justice, which honors Trudy’s memory and the unwavering support of her family and community.
Trudy was last seen wearing a one-piece swimsuit, shorts, and a T-shirt, carrying a beach towel. After asking her father if she could swim with a friend, she was denied permission. However, phone records indicated she made arrangements to go swimming despite this. Investigators revealed that a witness had reported seeing Trudy in a Chevrolet vehicle with another person of interest, William ‘Ed’ Smith, near his home on Campbell’s Island. Smith has since died, but Fisher was named a person of interest in 2020.
Authorities confirmed that Trudy’s body has never been found. The search for her remains continues, with Catherine Runty, Henry County State Attorney, expressing hope for a trial. “We are committed to bringing justice to the members of our communities,” she stated.
Fisher had been in custody at Scott County Jail since July on unrelated narcotics charges. His arrest in this case is seen as a significant breakthrough in a mystery that has haunted the community for nearly three decades.
This latest development is not just a legal matter; it brings renewed hope to Trudy’s family. “While nothing can bring back young Trudy to her family,” Chief Gault added, “the relentless pursuit of justice honors her memory.”
As this case unfolds, the community watches closely for updates, underscoring the importance of justice for missing persons. The emotional weight of this tragedy remains heavy, as families and friends of missing individuals seek closure.
Stay tuned as more details emerge regarding this compelling case.
