Decades-Old Murder Case Reopened Through New Podcast Investigation
A Rolling Stone journalist has launched a new podcast called Devil's Quarry to investigate the unsolved 1995 murder of 12-year-old Josette Wright in Carmel, New York, whose case led to the wrongful convictions of two young men. The investigation points to Howard Gombert, a known serial predator with a documented pattern of abducting and assaulting children, who was never interviewed by police despite multiple complaints and witness accounts. The case matters because Gombert is scheduled for release in approximately six months, while the murders of Josette Wright and another missing girl, Robin Murphy, remain unsolved after 30 years.
A Rolling Stone journalist who previously reported on the wrongful convictions in the Josette Wright murder case has launched a new podcast investigation to identify the actual killer. The 12-year-old's remains were discovered in 1995 in rural Carmel, New York, leading police to arrest and convict two local teenagers despite insufficient evidence. Through extensive reporting, the journalist identified Howard Gombert, a serial predator with a documented pattern of targeting children, as the likely perpetrator based on multiple sworn complaints from victims and witness testimony. Despite evidence connecting Gombert to the crime, police never interviewed him, instead pursuing the two teenagers who were eventually exonerated after spending decades in prison. The two wrongfully convicted men received substantial settlements totaling $32 million, but the actual murders of Josette Wright and another missing girl remain unsolved, with Gombert scheduled for release within six months.
What's missing
The article does not clearly explain why Gombert was never charged with Josette's murder despite the evidence presented, nor does it detail the current legal status or barriers preventing his prosecution for this specific crime. Additionally, the specific evidence linking Gombert to Josette's remains (beyond victim pattern testimony) is not detailed.
How coverage differed
Rolling Stone's coverage emphasizes systemic police failure and injustice against the wrongfully convicted men, framing the story as an investigative triumph and moral reckoning. The outlet's left-leaning perspective highlights institutional failures and the need for accountability, while the podcast launch is presented as a continuation of truth-seeking journalism rather than a neutral news report.
What different sources said
- Rolling StoneLeft
One Story I Wrote Haunted Me. So I Kept Chasing It Down
Related
Clashes in Pakistan-administered Kashmir Leave 11 Dead Amid Protests Over Legislative Representation
Recent clashes between protesters and police in Pakistan-administered Kashmir resulted in at least 11 deaths, with the Joint Awami Action Committee leading demonstrations against a constitutional rule reserving legislative seats for Indian Kashmir refugees. The protesters argue the reserved seats give refugees disproportionate political influence in the region. The dispute highlights a longstanding political tension in Pakistan-administered Kashmir that the government says would require constitutional reform to address.
Rome Mayor Ignazio Marino Resigns Following Expense Account Scandal
Rome Mayor Ignazio Marino resigned on Thursday following a scandal involving questionable expenses on his city hall credit card, including alleged family dinners claimed as official business. Marino had faced mounting pressure from his own Democratic Party and other political opponents over months of controversies, including parking violations and his absence during a major organized crime funeral. His resignation marks the end of a tenure that began with promises to reform Rome's corruption-plagued administration but was undermined by multiple scandals and loss of political support.
Houston Texans Aim for Super Bowl with Offseason Upgrades and CJ Stroud's Return to Form
The Houston Texans, coming off a playoff appearance, have expressed Super Bowl aspirations for the 2026 season, with star pass rusher Will Anderson Jr. stating the team believes it has championship-caliber talent. The team made significant offseason moves including acquiring running back David Montgomery, safety Reed Blankenship, and offensive linemen to strengthen their roster. Success will depend heavily on quarterback CJ Stroud returning to his 2023 rookie form after declining production over the past two seasons.