The Body of Andrew Patrick Cohen

Below is an archived excerpt from a police investigation conducted on October 17, 1996 at Houdaille Quarry in Springfield Township, Union County, New Jersey. This is also the site where the body of Jeannette DePalma was found in 1972.

Body of white male, 26 years of age, found lying face-down in a pile of leaves adjacent to a large oak tree. Victim was most likely stripped from his original clothes forcefully, suggested by the marks of struggle around the wrists and ankles. Body was found dressed in a sheer white negligee and women’s underwear with an illegible name written on the tag. Upon further inspection, more marks of struggle were discovered.

Marks of struggle that were discovered included a scar on the victim’s knee which was estimated to measure 5 or 6 inches long and strangulation scars around the neck that were most likely self-inflicted. Unique details such as the victim’s fingernails and toenails being painted a shimmery purple color were also found.

Upon toxicology reports, several traces of substances such as MDMA, cocaine, and amphetamines were discovered with mixed pH levels of 1, 8, 11, and 14, suggesting that the victim had severe blood loss and was subject to various chemical solutions. However, traces of chloroform were discovered around and inside the mouth. Victim was most likely gagged with a rag or cloth soaked in chloroform, although the specification of whether it was stabilized or water-saturated is unknown.

Other details of note include that the victim’s hair was bleached blonde, wore a Star of David necklace, and had “HC + A” carved onto thigh.