Montgomery County, MD — As July 25, 2025, marks the 50th anniversary of one of Montgomery County’s most heartbreaking unsolved crimes, police are renewing their call for public assistance in the brutal murder of 15-year-old Kathy Beatty.
In 1975, Kathy was found unconscious, beaten, and sexually assaulted in a wooded area behind the former K-Mart in Aspen Hill. She succumbed to her injuries days later in the hospital. The case has haunted the community and her family for half a century.
A Chilling Discovery
On the evening of July 24, 1975, Kathy was reported missing by her family. The next day, her sister made the devastating discovery—Kathy was found barely alive, partially clothed, and unconscious in a remote wooded area known to local teens as “the rocks.” Investigators later confirmed she had been sexually assaulted and suffered blunt force trauma to the head from a rock.
Despite immediate efforts by law enforcement, no arrests were ever made. Kathy remained in a coma and died a week later in the hospital, never regaining consciousness.
The Ongoing Search for Justice
Over the past five decades, detectives have followed every available lead. Though advancements in forensic technology have helped solve many cold cases, Kathy’s murder remains unsolved. Now, the Montgomery County Police Department’s Cold Case Section is making a renewed push for information.
To mark this solemn anniversary and revitalize the investigation, the department has released a dedicated podcast detailing Kathy’s case, her life, and the impact of her death on those left behind. By sharing her story with new audiences, police hope it will trigger memories and prompt someone to come forward.
“This case has never been forgotten,” said a spokesperson for the Cold Case Unit. “Before her mother passed away, she made us promise to never give up on Kathy. We intend to keep that promise.”
A Community Call to Action
The department is urging anyone with even the smallest piece of information—no matter how old or insignificant it may seem—to come forward. Sometimes, long-silent witnesses or community members remember key details that could break a cold case wide open.
To encourage tips, a $10,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest in Kathy Beatty’s case.
How to Help
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Solvers of Montgomery County through the following means:
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Visit www.crimesolversmcmd.org
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Click the “Submit a Tip” link at the top of the page or go directly to www.p3tips.com
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Call 1-866-411-TIPS (8477)
Callers may remain anonymous.
As the 50-year milestone passes, investigators remain committed to bringing long-overdue justice to Kathy Beatty’s family. Her story continues to resonate, not only as a tragic case but also as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and hope—even decades later.
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