Maggie Long: Search for killers of Colorado student, 17, who was burned alive continues for fifth year
PARK COUNTY, COLORADO: Authorities are still looking for those responsible for the murder of Maggie Long, a Park County youngster five years ago, according to a news release from the Park County Sheriff's Department on Wednesday, November 30. They are even offering a $75,000 reward for information that will help them catch the perpetrators.
A statement from Park County Sheriff Tom McGraw stated, "While the Park County Sheriff’s Office, the 11th Judicial District Attorney's Office, and our state and federal partners have never stopped the search for the people responsible for Maggie's death, we renew our commitment to her family and the Bailey community on this somber anniversary — and beyond — in our quest for justice in this case." When responding to reports of a fire at Long's residence in Bailey on December 1, 2017, fire firefighters discovered her dead. She was 17 years old at the time of the incident. According to Park County authorities, as many as three attackers may have set Long's house on fire and burned her alive.
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Evidence, according to the FBI, indicates that Long, 17, and her attackers engaged in a "physical altercation" before they grabbed an AK-47-style gun, 2,000 rounds of ammunition, a green safe, and jade figurines from the house. The murderers "appear to have spent a significant amount of time at the house," according to the Maggie Long Task Force, which is made up of local, state, and federal law enforcement officials.
The #FBI offers a reward of up to $20,000 for info leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the homicide of Maggie Long, age 17. Her remains were discovered after a house fire was extinguished on December 1, 2017, in Bailey, Colorado: https://t.co/j6Xkv3Ufbv pic.twitter.com/b0MAEOcrDy
— FBI Most Wanted (@FBIMostWanted) December 1, 2022
The award sum has gradually increased by the task force since it began at $20,000 in 2018. The task force tip line is still active, and composite sketches of the three suspected attackers are still being circulated, according to the report. Sheriff McGraw stated, "Someone has that key piece of information that will lead to the arrest of those responsible for Maggie’s murder. We ask that people be bold and come forward to share what they know to help us solve this case."
Long's family also released a statement on the day commemorating Long's death. A statement by the Long family read, "Maggie deserves justice. She was an irreplaceable, innocent soul with a majestic presence. She brought joy to our family, her friends, and her community that will never be forgotten. Five years ago, she was horrifically murdered," according to Fox21 News.
"We have endured an active investigation while processing the loss of our beloved Maggie. Our hope is that someone with information will come forward so those responsible for Maggie's death will be apprehended and held accountable. No other family should have to suffer such senseless loss," the statement concluded.