Someone Knows Something: Police Revive Investigation Into Unsolved Folsom Family Killings

FOLSOM, NJ — The New Jersey State Police Cold Case Unit is once again asking for the public’s help in solving one of Atlantic County’s most haunting unsolved crimes: the 1978 murders of Gary Deal, Joan Deal, and their young son, Jason.

Nearly 48 years after the killings shocked the small community of Folsom, investigators are hoping advances in forensic science and the passage of time may help generate new leads.

According to authorities, the bodies of Gary Deal, 26, his wife Joan Deal, 26, and their three-year-old son Jason were discovered inside their home on Mays Landing Road on October 30, 1978.

Investigators determined that Gary and Joan Deal suffered multiple gunshot wounds and injuries from a sharp-edged weapon. Their young son was found dead in his bedroom after suffering fatal injuries. The murders devastated the community and remain among the most disturbing unsolved cases in Atlantic County history.

Over the decades, detectives have followed numerous leads while repeatedly reviewing evidence in an effort to identify those responsible. As technology improved, crime-scene evidence was subjected to advanced DNA testing and ballistic analysis in hopes of uncovering new information. Despite extensive investigative efforts, the case remains unsolved.

Now, the New Jersey State Police Cold Case Unit believes someone may still hold the key to solving the crime.

Investigators note that nearly five decades have passed since the murders occurred. During that time, relationships may have changed, loyalties may have shifted, and individuals who were once reluctant to come forward may now be willing to share information.

Detectives are urging anyone with knowledge about the murders, no matter how small it may seem, to contact authorities.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective I Dominic Rubino of the New Jersey State Police Cold Case Unit at 1-833-4NJ-COLD (833-465-2653) or by email at coldcase@njsp.gov. Anonymous tips are also accepted.

The full New Jersey State Police press release can be viewed here: NJSP Cold Case Appeal.

As another anniversary of the murders passes, investigators remain committed to finding answers for the Deal family and bringing justice in a case that has remained unresolved for nearly half a century.