Despite several leads and theories generated during the original investigation, no concrete evidence or confessions have been found to identify the killer. The case was reactivated in 2009 and 2023 with new forensic evidence, but no arrests have been made.
John's body was found face down on the floor with extensive head trauma, including multiple skull fractures. The medical examiner theorized that the murder weapon was likely a baseball bat-shaped object.
John was a musician who played bass in a punk band called Sold On Murder (SOM). His passion for music consumed most of his energy and resources, as he dedicated himself to recording and performing with his band.
John was known to buy and sell small quantities of marijuana to friends and Yale students to fund his music. He was also involved in a larger drug deal on the day of his murder, which may have contributed to his death.
Patrick was a man who claimed to have paid back rent for John's studio and was involved in a drug deal with him. He initially lied about his interactions with John on the day of the murder but later admitted to hearing an altercation and fearing for John's life.
John had been involved in physical altercations with members of the skinhead subculture within the punk scene, some of whom held neo-Nazi beliefs. These conflicts escalated, and some witnesses suggested that John's murder could have been racially motivated or related to a previous theft of musical equipment.
New forensic evidence generated by the FBI in 2009 and 2023 has reactivated the case. Investigators are now using advanced technology to test evidence from 1990, which could potentially identify the killer.
Jocelyn wants those responsible to know that John was loved and surrounded by a community that still cares for him. She emphasizes that his murder has left a lasting impact on his family and that they continue to seek justice and closure.
Nearly 35 years have passed since John Evers Robinson was found dead in his New Haven, Connecticut music studio. The original investigation generated several leads and theories of the killing, but the case remains unsolved. Now, John’s sister is doing everything she can to get her brother’s story out there. Someone knows something. It’s time to speak up.
View source material and photos for this episode at: darkdowneast.com/johneversrobinson)
Dark Downeast is an audiochuck and Kylie Media production hosted by Kylie Low.