Charles Ray Hatcher confessed to the abduction, sexual assault, and murder of Eric Christian, confirming his guilt and revealing details about the crime.
Melvin Renalds was wrongfully convicted for the murder of Eric Christian based on a false confession, despite evidence pointing to another suspect.
The investigations into Eric Christian's murder highlighted flaws in the criminal justice system, including mental health evaluations, wrongful convictions, and the pursuit of justice for victims.
Deep dives
Eric Christian's Abduction and Murder
Four-year-old Eric Christian was abducted from a mall in Saint Josef and later found sexually assaulted and murdered by Charles Ray Hatcher.
Melvin Renalds' Wrongful Conviction
Melvin Renalds was wrongfully convicted for the murder of Eric Christian based on a false confession, despite evidence pointing to another suspect.
Charles Ray Hatcher's Confession
Charles Ray Hatcher confessed to the abduction, sexual assault, and murder of Eric Christian, confirming his guilt and revealing details about the crime.
Hatcher's Criminal History
Charles Ray Hatcher had a long criminal history, including previous assaults, abductions, and murders of children in different states.
Impact and Legacy
The investigations into Eric Christian's murder highlighted flaws in the criminal justice system, including mental health evaluations, wrongful convictions, and the pursuit of justice for victims.
*** Warning: This case involves a child victim *** On May 26 1978, four-year-old Eric Christgen suddenly disappeared while playing in a park in St Joseph, Missouri. The next day, his body was discovered near the Missouri River, sparking a manhunt like the small town had never seen before.
