On November 18, 1987, 30‑year‑old Ruby Elaine Dardeen, known as Elaine, was found beaten to death at her mobile home outside Ina, Illinois. Elaine was seven months pregnant; the attack caused premature labor and the newborn girl was also beaten to death. Elaine’s 3‑year‑old son Peter was found beaten and tucked into bed beside them. The scene suggested prolonged, staged savagery.

Elaine’s husband, 29‑year‑old Russell Keith Dardeen, was missing at first; his body was found the next day in a field about a mile from the trailer. Keith had been shot multiple times and sexually mutilated, and his car was later found parked at a police station several miles away. Forensic timing indicated Keith was killed within an hour of the others, who likely died about 12 hours before discovery.

Investigators—including local police, state police and FBI profilers—examined extensive evidence and leads but found no sign of burglary, forced entry, or sexual contact, and nothing stolen. In 2000 convicted killer Tommy Lynn Sells later confessed with some nonpublic details, but prosecutors declined charges because of inconsistencies and inability to interview him in person. The case remains unsolved.

Does anyone have information about the Dardeen family or that area in 1987?