Sarah McAbee, 76, of Gaston County, North Carolina, was found dead on December 19, 1997, after being missing for nearly 10 months. Her body was discovered submerged in an abandoned well near Tryon Elementary School. An artificial Christmas tree had been placed on top of the remains, suggesting an effort to conceal the body.

Sarah distrusted banks and routinely hid large sums of cash in her home and clothing. After she vanished, family members located more than $25,000 hidden in various places around the house. Donald Baxter Wells, a known felon, confessed that he struck McAbee on the head with a hammer and became the primary suspect, but two trials ended in hung juries and no conviction followed.

The family continues to seek justice and the case remains unsolved. If anyone has information about Sarah McAbee or her disappearance, please share what is known with the authorities.