THE STORY OF LOU SMIT, THE DEDICATED HOMICIDE DETECTIVE FEATURED IN THE GRIPPING NEW THREE-PART NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY: COLD CASE: WHO KILLED JONBENET RAMSEY?
On Christmas night in 1996, the brutal murder of six-year-old JonBenét Ramsey shocked the nation. Found dead in her family's Boulder, Colorado home, JonBenét's body was discovered in the basement, with a broken skull and strangled by a garrote. A ransom note left in the home added to the confusion, but the truth would prove even more elusive.
As the case unfolded, the media swarmed and speculation ran rampant. JonBenét’s status as a child beauty queen only fueled the fire, with many focusing on her parents, John and Patsy Ramsey, as the primary suspects. However, the case took an unexpected turn when Boulder District Attorney's office brought in legendary homicide detective Lou Smit.
Smit, known for his unyielding pursuit of the truth, quickly grew disillusioned with the Boulder police’s focus on the Ramsey family. He believed that vital evidence pointing away from the parents was being ignored. Resigning from his official role, Smit chose to continue his investigation privately, using his own resources, determined to find justice for JonBenét.
Smit’s findings would change the direction of the investigation. He was convinced the Ramsey family had no involvement, but tragically passed away in 2010, just before he could solve the case.
Now, in Lou and JonBenet, Smit’s longtime friend and colleague, John Anderson, reveals the story behind Smit’s tireless investigation and the profound legacy he left behind. Drawing on Smit’s extensive work, Anderson and the detective’s family and colleagues believe the elusive killer can finally be identified, bringing justice to a case that has haunted the nation for nearly three decades.
This book offers a compelling, behind-the-scenes look at one of America’s most infamous unsolved murders, providing new insights into the case and honoring the unwavering dedication of Lou Smit, the legendary detective who refused to give up.