Reward Offered In Disney Murder Case

The ongoing investigation into the disappearance and murder of Kelly Disney has received significant boosts in recent weeks, according to Linda Snow who has been actively working on the case. She also confirmed continued collaboration with the FBI—an effort ongoing since spring 2023. Newport Police Chief Malloy has assigned Detective Ticerone to work directly on the case, providing critical local support. "The partnership with the FBI has been invaluable," Snow said, citing help from both local agents and specialists in Quantico on profiling and focusing the investigation on specific suspects. Having sworn officers actively involved is crucial for conducting interviews, filing search warrants, and making arrests. Progress in the case is evident.

Detectives report that several new leads have recently been developed, driven in part by a remarkable show of community support: an Oregon woman who recently offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to the recovery of Kelly’s remains and the successful prosecution of her killer. Though the donor wishes to remain anonymous, Snow said news of the reward has already increased public response and tips. She emphasized that while locating Kelly's remains is their top priority, the case can still proceed if remains are not found. "The most important thing for us is to return her remains to her family, but we definitely can proceed with the case without her remains," investigators stated.

The Kelly Disney investigation has been ongoing for over 40-years. 17-year-old Kelly Disney was last seen in the early morning hours on March 9, 1984, walking eastbound on Highway 20 near U.S. 101 in Newport, Oregon. Kelly was observed on Highway 20 by several witnesses before disappearing and never being seen alive again. In July 1994, Kelly’s skull was found in an abandoned vehicle near Big Creek Reservoir outside of Newport, Oregon. It appeared her skull had recently been placed at that location and her death was ruled a homicide. Kelly’s disappearance and homicide remain unsolved. Those with any information should contact Linda Snow at 541-265-0284.