Why would someone choose to write about tragedy in their retirement? For author and former journalist Bob, the answer lies not in darkness, but in remembrance, resilience, and the enduring pursuit of justice. In this deeply moving reflection, he shares the story that shaped his passion for true crime—and the unforgettable moment that reaffirmed his purpose.
People always ask me why I am writing true crime stories in my retirement. The answer walked through the door when I appeared recently for a book signing at the St. Louis library.
Many years earlier, while working for KMOV-TV, I did a story on the murder of Mary Macinski, a 33-year-old woman who was brutally killed in 1987. Mary had gone out for her evening walk, but never returned. Concerned, her father went looking for her, and found her body lying between two homes in a busy neighborhood. She had been stabbed 57 times.
Nobody heard a thing. Her killer was never found.
Mary’s family had dealt with their grief for years before I met them. But when I did, an amazing thing struck me. The family had come to peace with Mary’s murder, and in fact had forgiven the killer.
“People cry out for justice when what they really want is vengeance,” Mary’s sister Ann told me. Her other sister Emily agreed. “We have come to peace with it. We still would like the person to be caught. But we are at peace. We have forgiven the person.”
As I prepared to make my remarks at the library, and talk about the cold cases in my book 25 Frozen, 1 Thawed, I watched as a family walked in and sat in the front row. I had seen them before, but could not place them.
And then it hit me. It was Ann and Emily.
I talked about Mary that night. And after my presentation I hugged her family, just as I had years ago.
“You haven’t forgot us Bob,” Ann said. “And we haven’t forgotten you.”
Why am I writing true crime stores in my retirement? I think you know.
Discover the stories behind the headlines in 25 Frozen, 1 Thawed—a compelling collection of cold cases that honors victims, seeks truth, and keeps their memories alive.
 | A guest post by
|
Thank you for sharing. To show you care benefits both parties. Connections, allies and friendships.