Chapter 96: Searching for Justice- The Murder of Kristina Hickey and The Abernathy Exoneration

In this gripping chapter of The Book of the Dead, we dive deep into one of the most haunting true crime cases: the murder of Kristina Hickey. Join us as we explore the chilling details of the crime that shook a community and the subsequent investigation that led to a wrongful conviction.

We’ll examine the evidence that pointed to Christopher Abernathy, who spent years behind bars for a crime he did not commit, and the journey toward exoneration. Listen in as we discuss the impact of media coverage, the role of forensic science, and the relentless pursuit of truth that ultimately led to Abernathy’s release. This episode sheds light on a tragic event and highlights the importance of justice and the fight against wrongful convictions.

Unfortunately, while Christopher was rightfully exonerated, Kristina's murder is still unsolved, and she has waited decades for justice. This is her story, in the hopes her family gets answers. 

If you have any information please contact the Cook County Sheriff’s Office at (312) 603-6444.

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Check out the Cold Case Coalition and read about the amazing work they have done 

Alice. (2023, April 27). Kristina S. Hickey (1969 – 1984). Defrosting Cold Cases. https://defrostingcoldcases.com/kristina-s-hickey-1969-1984/Appellate Court of Illinois. (1989). People v. Abernathy. In Casetext (545 N.E.2d 201). https://casetext.com/case/people-v-abernathy-10Associated Press. (1984, October 8). Police Search For Clues, Girl’s Death. Breeze Courier, 1.Christopher Abernathy - National Registry of Exonerations. (n.d.). https://www.law.umich.edu/special/exoneration/Pages/casedetail.aspx?caseid=4640Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office. (2015, February 11). Acquittal of Chicago Man from a 30-Year-Old Murder Case Ensued from Conviction Integrity Review. State’s Attorney. https://www.statesattorney.org/press-charges-dismissed-30-year-old-murder-case/Dec 05, 1985, page 4 - Southtown Star at Newspapers.com. (n.d.). Newspapers.com. https://www.newspapers.com/image/537431274/?match=1&terms=kristina%20hickeyFeb 26, 1987, page 34 - Chicago Tribune at Newspapers.com. (n.d.). Newspapers.com. https://www.newspapers.com/image/388394711/?match=1&terms=Christopher%20abernathy%20kristina%20hickeyFegelman, A. (1987, January 14). Rape-murder tale vital in case: Prosecutors tell of statements by defendant to friend. Chicago Tribune, 8.Girl, 15, found stabbed to death in Park Forest. (1984, October 7). Chicago Tribune, 4.Horaney, M. (1984, October 7). Park Forest student found murdered. The Southtown Star, A1–A2.Reynolds, P. (1984, October 11). Classmates say sad farewell to slain girl. Southtown Star, 1.Shaw, P. (1985, December 8). Bond hearing set for murder suspect. The Southtown Star, A1–A3.Shaw, P. (1986, October 30). Delay area man’s murder trial. The Southtown Star, A3.Shaw, P. (1987, January 18). Midlothian youth found guilty in...