An unfired bullet was found between the two girls' bodies in 2017. It took Indiana State Police more than five years to connect it to a suspect.
The Murders
Abby Williams and Libby German were murdered in February 2017 in Delphi, Indiana, in a case that went unsolved for more than five years despite an extensive investigation and significant public attention.
The Arrest
In late October 2022, authorities announced the arrest of Richard Allen in connection with the murders. According to a redacted probable cause affidavit, an unfired bullet found between the victims' bodies at the crime scene was matched by the Indiana State Police crime laboratory to a firearm owned by Allen, forming a key piece of the evidence against him.
Challenging the Evidence
Allen's defense attorneys have publicly questioned the reliability of the ballistics analysis connecting the bullet to his firearm. In a subsequent filing, his legal team submitted a sealed "motion in limine" specifically addressing ballistics evidence, asking the court to rule certain evidence inadmissible at trial. The specific contents of that motion were not made public.
Where the Case Stood
Judge Fran Gull, assigned from outside the county to preside over the case, was responsible for ruling on the sealed motion and determining what ballistics evidence would be permitted at trial.
Editorial Note on Case Status
This entry reflects the case during pretrial proceedings. Please confirm and add the trial outcome, verdict, and sentencing before publishing, given how significant this case became in national media coverage.
FAQ
What evidence connects Richard Allen to the murders?
Prosecutors have cited an unfired bullet found at the crime scene that was matched to a firearm belonging to Allen.
How long after the murders was Allen arrested?
More than five years — the murders occurred in February 2017, and Allen was arrested in October 2022.
Has Richard Allen gone to trial?
This should be verified before publishing — the available information here reflects the pretrial phase of the case.