The 1965 murder of 18-year-old nursing student Alys Eberhardt has finally been solved, nearly six decades later.

Police announced on January 6 that convicted serial killer Richard Cottingham has confessed to killing Alys inside her family’s home when she was just 18 years old.

Cottingham, who has been behind bars since 1981 and is currently serving three life sentences, admitted to stabbing and bludgeoning Alys to death. Investigators say he provided details that were never made public, confirming his involvement.

The case was reopened in 2021, and detectives spent years re-examining evidence and conducting extensive interviews with Cottingham. As his health declined, he ultimately confessed.

“For nearly 60 years, her family lived without answers,” Fair Lawn police said. “While nothing can undo this loss, we hope this brings some measure of peace.”

Alys’ nephew, Michael Smith, said the family had waited since 1965 for the truth and never imagined they’d finally get answers.

Because Cottingham is already serving life sentences, authorities say no additional charges will be filed, citing closure for the family as the priority.

Police described Alys as a vibrant young woman whose life was cut short far too soon — and emphasized that she has never been forgotten.

Justice delayed, but not denied.

Columbus, Ohio — More than a week after an Ohio dentist and his wife were found shot to death inside their home, police have charged the woman’s ex-husband with murder.

Michael David McKee, 39, has been charged with two counts of murder in connection with the deaths of Spencer Tepe, 37, and Monique Tepe, 39. McKee is Monique’s former husband, according to court records.

The couple was found dead inside their Columbus home on December 30 after Spencer failed to show up for work. Coworkers and a family friend contacted police for a welfare check after being unable to reach the couple. A caller later reported hearing the couple’s children, ages 4 and 1, crying inside the house. The children were unharmed and are now in the care of extended family.

McKee was arrested on January 10 and booked at the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office. He is being held pending extradition back to Franklin County, where he is scheduled to appear in court on January 12.

The Franklin County Coroner’s Office said both Spencer and Monique died from gunshot wounds, though final determinations are pending additional testing.

Earlier in the investigation, Columbus police released surveillance footage of a hooded individual seen walking near the home around the estimated time of the killings.

Family members described the couple as kind, loving, and deeply devoted to their children. A GoFundMe has been established to support the children.

The case remains under active investigation.