Search Continues for Suspects in Maggie Long’s Murder: Seven Years Later
PARK COUNTY, Colo. — Seven years after the tragic death of high school senior Maggie Long, authorities are still seeking leads in her murder case. On December 1, 2017, deputies from the Park County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported house fire at a residence in Bailey, where they discovered the remains of 17-year-old Long. It is believed that Long interrupted a burglary in progress upon returning home from Platte Canyon High School, leading to a confrontation with her attackers before the fire erupted.
Investigators revealed that Maggie was burned alive in the blaze, which was set intentionally. The suspects are thought to have stolen several items, including firearms and ammunition, during the incident. Although law enforcement believes three individuals are responsible for Long’s murder, they have yet to identify or locate them. Authorities speculate that the suspects may have sustained injuries from the fire and could have altered their appearances or left the area altogether.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is treating Long’s death as a hate crime. In light of the ongoing investigation, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and local law enforcement are urging anyone with information to step forward. Sheriff Tom McGraw emphasized the community’s potential role in solving this high-profile cold case, stating, "We believe someone knows something that could help solve this case and bring a measure of justice to Maggie’s family."
To incentivize tips, a reward of $75,000 has been offered, sponsored by various agencies including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Anyone with information can contact the Maggie Long Task Force using the tipline at 303-239-4243 or via email at maggie.long.tips@state.co.us, with options for anonymity.
Source
Photo credit www.denver7.com