Massachusetts

Chartier Family: Judy’s case is open and very active

CHELMSFORD, Mass. — Nearly two months after missing Chelmsford teenager Judy Chartier, and her car, were found in the Concord River, the Judy Chartier case is not closed.

The Chartier family has been told Detectives from Chelmsford, Billerica, and the Massachusetts State Police are actively working the case, tracking down anyone who might have information.

Judy’s cousin tells me, she’s been told dozens of witnesses are being interviewed, and tips are pouring into police.

“It’s about 60-70 interviews that they’re conducting,” Heather Laine told me. “It’s relieving to know that they are taking it seriously.”

Here’s what we know about Judy Chartier’s last hours.

Judy was last seen alive early in the morning of June 5, 1982.

She vanished after attending a party at a house in Billerica.

Earlier, Judy and her boyfriend got into an argument because two men were flirting with her.

Judy drove her boyfriend home, and then returned to the party.

39 years later, Judy Chartier was located about a half-mile away in a remote stretch of the Concord River.

A key question for investigators: did Judy Chartier accidentally drive her car down the long dirt road that leads the river? Or was someone else behind the wheel?

Chelmsford Police detectives tell me they are interviewing anyone who was at the party.

They are trying to reconstruct what really happened at that party.

At the same time, investigators are waiting for the State Medical Examiner to determine the cause and manner of Judy’s death.

Heather Laine told me, she hopes her family has some answers soon.

“I want a complete picture of what happened. I want to know if it was an accident or if it was something that happened, foul play,” said Laine.

If you have any information, you are urged to contact Chelmsford, Billerica, or State Police