New Hampshire Cold Case Unit, Newton Police Renew Appeal for Answers in Rachael Garden’s 1980 Disappearance

Concord, NH - Attorney General John M. Formella and New Hampshire State Police Colonel Mark B. Hall announce, on behalf of the New Hampshire Cold Case Unit, a renewed appeal for public assistance in the cold case disappearance of Rachael Garden.

"Forty-six years is a long time for a family to wait for answers. But for our investigators, the passage of time only strengthens our resolve," said Senior Assistant Attorney General R. Christopher Knowles, Chief of the New Hampshire Cold Case Unit. "We believe there are people who have information that could be the missing piece in this case. We urge them to come forward."

Fifteen-year-old Rachael Garden was last seen on March 22, 1980, while walking home from Rowe's Corner Market on Pond Street in Newton, New Hampshire. She has not been heard from since. Extensive searches have been conducted without any results, and circumstances surrounding her disappearance suggest that foul play was involved.

The New Hampshire Cold Case Unit and local authorities are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding her disappearance and are seeking new information that may lead to a resolution.

At the time of her disappearance, Rachael was wearing a two-tone blue ski parka, jeans, a plaid shirt with silver threads, and brown lace-up shoes. She was also carrying a dark blue tote bag with the word "Things" printed on it.

Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen or had contact with Rachael Garden on March 22, 1980, or who has any information regarding her disappearance or the individuals she was last seen with, to come forward.

Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the New Hampshire Cold Case Unit directly via email, [email protected], or by phone at (603) 271-2663. All tips can remain anonymous.