Linda Rayner went to Hammonasset Beach State Park to seek the beauty and peace of the ocean during a solo walk.
Linda Rayner's cause of death was blunt trauma to the head and neck, indicating a violent homicide.
A known violent offender, Herold Mee, who had been in prison since the 1970s for the beating deaths of three people, was a primary suspect.
Herold Mee was on furlough during the weekend of Linda's murder and was within a short driving distance from the scene. Additionally, he had a history of using rocks to kill, similar to Linda's cause of death.
A single strand of hair was found at the crime scene, which was retained for DNA testing and analysis.
The investigation hit a major obstacle because the crime scene was heavily affected by rain, likely washing away crucial evidence such as footprints, hair, and blood.
The hair sample could hold critical information for the case, but its exact details were not disclosed, and the DNA testing results were inconclusive.
The reward for information leading to the arrest of Linda Rayner's killer was initially $10,000, which later increased to $50,000.
Linda Rayner was a social worker who devoted her life to activism and volunteerism, which influenced her character to be compassionate and supportive of others in need.
Linda Rayner's murder had a far-reaching impact on her family and community, leaving a void in the lives of those who relied on her for support and compassion.
When Linda Rayner left for a walk in Hammonasset Beach State Park in the summer of 1992, she was seeking the beauty and peace that only the ocean can bring. Instead, she was brutally attacked by an unknown assailant and her case has remained unsolved ever since.
In the thirty-plus years since her death, investigators have identified at least one suspect… But her loved ones are still waiting for the day that they have all the answers.
View source material and photos for this episode at: darkdowneast.com/lindarayner)
Dark Downeast is an audiochuck and Kylie Media production hosted by Kylie Low.