Cartersville Murders - Part 2

One of the most frustrating aspects of the Woody murders isn’t just that it remains unsolved—it’s that some of the most important evidence in the case simply disappeared.

In any homicide, physical evidence is crucial. It can link a suspect to the crime scene, confirm a struggle, and even tell investigators what kind of weapon was used.

But in the case of Monty and Patricia Woody, key pieces of evidence were either lost, destroyed, or never fully examined.

And without that evidence, investigators claim they can’t make an arrest.

The Missing DNA and Destroyed Clothing

Multiple sources claim that some of the most critical forensic evidence in the case was lost or destroyed. This includes:

• DNA evidence, which was supposedly last seen in an investigator’s pocket before vanishing.

• Clothing, which was removed from evidence storage and destroyed instead of being preserved.

These aren’t minor details. DNA and fabric fibers could have identified a suspect, placed someone at the scene, or confirmed a struggle. Instead, they’re gone—taking possible answers with them.

How Does Evidence Go Missing in a Murder Case?

Evidence disappearing from an active homicide case isn’t common, but it does happen. Here are a few possible explanations:

1. Accidental Mismanagement

• 1990 forensic standards weren’t what they are today. DNA testing was still in its early stages, and evidence storage procedures weren’t as strict.

• It’s possible the evidence was simply lost or mislabeled, meaning it could still exist somewhere but was never properly cataloged.

2. Deliberate Evidence Suppression

• Some believe the evidence was destroyed on purpose—to protect someone.

• If law enforcement had a suspect with powerful connections, it’s possible that crucial evidence was removed so a case could never be built against them.

• This theory has never been proven, but it’s one that people in the community continue to discuss.

3. Evidence Was Used as Leverage

• Some believe the evidence wasn’t destroyed at all—but kept hidden.

• If someone in power knows who the killer is, keeping evidence secret could be a way of maintaining control over that person.

• This would explain why there have been repeated statements about investigators “knowing” who did it, but never having enough to charge them.

4. It Was Discarded Due to Neglect

• If the case wasn’t considered a priority, the evidence could have been discarded as part of routine storage cleanouts.

• Old cases sometimes get “cleaned up” to make room for newer ones, especially when they seem unlikely to be solved.

• This is a less sinister theory, but just as damaging for justice.

Why This Matters

Without physical evidence, the case becomes nearly impossible to prosecute. Even if someone confessed, without supporting forensic proof, a conviction would be hard to secure.

And that’s exactly why this case remains cold.

Does Someone Already Know the Answer?

In 2005, investigators publicly stated they were “99% sure” they knew who the killer was—but that they didn’t have enough evidence to make an arrest.

That means the person who did this is likely still walking free.

And without the missing evidence, they might never face justice.

What’s Next?

Tomorrow, we’ll explore one of the biggest unanswered questions in the case:

• Who wrote the note found at the crime scene?

• Could this mystery person hold the key to solving the case?

• Was this a random attack, or were Monty and Patricia murdered because they were trying to help someone in danger?

What do you think? Was this a tragic accident in evidence handling—or something more suspicious? Let us know in the comments.