E. Sue McKinney Marshel, a 38-year-old Caucasian woman, was killed on July 4, 1995, in Wayne City, Illinois. Sue and her 13-year-old daughter, Melinda, were reported missing after they did not attend a family Fourth of July celebration. Sue’s car was found the next day partially submerged in a pond and stained with blood, prompting suspicion of foul play.

Investigators later found the bodies of Sue and Melinda in a different rural pond. The women had attended the town’s Fourth of July festivities with Sue’s ex-partner, Niels Nieslen. Nieslen was arrested and charged in connection with the deaths; he was later convicted and given a sentence of life in prison without parole. The killings shocked the small community and underscored the devastating impact of domestic violence.

If anyone knew Sue or Melinda, or has information about what happened that day, please come forward.