It’s one of the most talked about true crime cases in modern history, and almost 30 years on, the story of JonBenét Ramsey’s murder still has everyone talking.
At present, the conversations and conspiracies around the then six-year-old’s death have been reignited and refuelled by new Netflix documentary, Cold Case: Who Killed JonBenét Ramsey?
The new documentary from director Joe Berlinger was created in the hopes the case can be reinvestigated, while also examining the way in which JonBenét’s family were scrutinised.
“There were items that were tested, but the DNA technology back then was so primitive that it’s time to retest those items,” Berlinger told Today.
He went on to add: “There is a disturbing amount of people in my mind who clinging to this theory that the Ramseys did it. I just hope that my reporting is so rock solid that I will change some hearts and minds on this subject.”
Shining a new light on the 28-year-old cold case, we explore everything you need to know about the JonBenét Ramsey mystery, below.
What Happened To JonBenét Ramsey?
Six-year-old JonBenét Ramsey was killed at her family home in Boulder, Colarado on December 26, 1996.
The former child pageant star was initially believed to be kidnapped upon the discovery of a ransom note asking $118,000 for her return. However, hours after police arrived, her father discovered her body in the basement of their home.
The investigation that followed made national and international headlines and has continued to do so for almost three decades. Her killer has never been caught.
What Was The Official Cause Of Death For JonBenét?
The details around JonBenét’s cause of death are deeply disturbing.
She was found in the basement of her home with a garrote tied around her neck.
The official cause of death, per her autopsy report which was released by the Office of the Boulder County Coroner on Dec. 27, 1996, states the reason as “asphyxia by strangulation associated with craniocerebral trauma”.
Results of the examination also revealed JonBenét had suffered a fracture to the right side of her skull as well as a subarachnoid and subdural hemorrhage, which is bleeding on the brain. There were also signs she had been sexually assaulted.
What Was Unusual About The Ransom Note?
The ransom note found was the first thing to be found on the day of JonBenét’s murder, even before her body was discovered in the basement. The note itself has been debated for years with many calling its contents as well as its location unusual.
Firstly, the ransom note was discovered sitting on the steps of the family home, which was both inside the house and nowhere near the body.
The question of why a ransom note would be written, asking for money in exchange for the safe return of JonBenét would ever be written if her body had been left behind.
In the documentary we also see FBI agent Ron Walker discuss the unusual length of the note. “It’s quite unusual to see this magnum opus,” Walker says. “Your typical ransom notes are short and to the point.”
Then, the demands of the letter have also been cause for speculation, particularly the $118, 000 sum.
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