A Christmas photo, taken in 1978, is one of Carla Tucker’s family’s last happy memories with the whole family together.
“During the holidays she liked to cook,” said Laverne Wilson, Carla’s mother. “She would be right there in the kitchen with me.”
Tragically, six months later in June of 1979, the 14-year-old Miller Middle School student disappeared. She was last seen walking out of a party store off of Charlevoix and Elmwood.
“Carla was sexually assaulted, strangled to death, and left in 55 gallon drum encased in concrete,” said Crime Stoppers President John Broad.
The crime happened between Detroit’s east side and a landfill on Mattelin Road in Carrollton Township in Monroe County.
Thirteen years later, in 1992, her body was discovered, but she remained a Jane Doe for decades. Over the years the torment of not knowing what happened to the kind-hearted kid was devastating for family.
“Situations like this,” said Carla’s brother Horace Tucker. “It really takes a toll on families. I can’t even explain it.”
After being missing for 36 years, this year Carla was identified through DNA but her killer has never been caught.
Carla’s family is begging anyone with information about her murder to contact police.
Her mother has a message for her killer.
“I just want to say that, the person or the people who killed my daughter, you not only killed my daughter but you killed my family,” said Laverne. “With all my heart, I pray for you, but you need to come in and turn yourself in.”
According to Crimes Stoppers, even the smallest clues can provide help solving this crime.
You can reach Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP. All tips are anonymous. A $2,500 reward is being offered for information that leads to an arrest.
Crime Stoppers is offering an additional $1,000 for a tip that comes in before midnight Friday. You can also text Crime Stoppers of Michigan your tip at 274637.
