Thomas Trala was 36 when he was found dead on Thursday, October 6, 1988, at a well station along Delaware Route 9 just outside Delaware City. He and 46-year-old Raymond Rapuano were discovered together at the remote utilitarian site. Detectives determined Rapuano died of apparent gunshot wounds, but the medical examiner could not determine the manner of Trala’s death, leaving a key unanswered question in the investigation.

The file has remained open and the Delaware State Police list this among their cold-case homicides. No arrests have been announced and authorities have not publicly identified suspects. Traces of the case appear in brief public memorials noting Trala’s name, age, and where he died, but the core details—what occurred at the Route 9 well station and who was responsible—remain unresolved.

Anyone who knew Thomas, was in the area that day, or has information about the Route 9 well station scene is asked to come forward.