13-Year-Old Matthew Margolies Disappears in Greenwich, Connecticut
Boy’s murder remains unsolved more than four decades as authorities continue to seek new leads and public tips
Matthew Margolies, 13, was well known in Greenwich, Connecticut’s Pemberwick neighborhood. In the early 1980s, neighbors often saw him riding his bike, stopping by his grandparents’ home, or fishing along the Byram River. He was energetic, curious, and loved the outdoors.
Matthew shared a close bond with his grandfather, George Margolies, who taught him both how to fish and how to navigate the woods. After his parents divorced in 1983, Matthew spent even more time at his grandparents’ home. When George’s health declined from cancer in the summer of 1984, Matthew remained at his side, helping care for him and maintaining their daily routines along the river, according to the Connecticut Post.
George passed away later that summer, and the loss deeply affected Matthew. Despite his grief, he continued to find comfort in the outdoors, returning to the familiar trails and riverbanks he had explored with his grandfather.
Disappearance on August 31, 1984
On Aug. 31, 1984, Matthew left his grandmother’s house early in the day to go fishing at his favorite spot on the Byram River. Neighbors and friends saw him at the Sparta Deli and fishing nearby that morning, and he interacted with them.
After a few hours of fishing, he briefly went back to his grandmother’s home. Witnesses saw him again in the neighborhood, and he walked past the deli again.
Later that day, when Matthew was expected home, he never showed up.
Search and Investigation
Concerned, his mother reported him missing at 9 p.m. to the Greenwich Police Department, launching a search that involved local and state police, tracking dogs, and volunteers.
Authorities initially focused on the river and the nearby woods for Matthew. The Hartford Courant reported that tracking dogs followed his scent from clothing left at his grandmother’s home. The dogs led them to a river dam where the trail ended. Divers searched the waters, while investigators followed tips to abandoned buildings, farms, and local cemeteries. They also contacted Matthew’s father, who lived in Texas, to see if he had any information about his son’s whereabouts or recent activities.
Discovery of the Body
Five days later, on Sept. 5, 1984, authorities discovered Margolies’ body in a wooded, hilly area near Pemberwick Road in Greenwich, close to where he was last seen. The Greenwich Time reports that authorities described the death as violent, involving stabbing, strangling, and suffocation.
Suspected weapon found in the death of Matthew Margolies
Investigation Challenges
In the weeks after the discovery, police questioned several individuals and investigated potential suspects. They also attempted to reconstruct Margolies’ last movements and identify anyone who may have interacted with him that day.
Despite an extensive investigation, authorities made no arrests. The evidence collected was insufficient for prosecution. Investigators relied mainly on witness statements and physical evidence at the time of his death.
Community Impact
Matthew’s disappearance and death left a lasting mark on Greenwich. Families who had allowed children to explore freely became more cautious, and parents closely monitored outdoor activities. Schools and community groups began emphasizing child safety, organizing programs and workshops.
Decades later, the story of Matthew Margolies remains part of local memory, referenced alongside other high-profile unsolved cases in Greenwich.
Ongoing Efforts
Authorities continue to review the case and say any new tips could be crucial in moving it forward. Investigators periodically revisit leads as part of a cold case program, hoping that advances in technology or fresh information might provide answers.
Local organizations and community members have also remained involved, raising awareness about unsolved cases and child safety. If anyone has information about Matthew Margolies, please contact the Greenwich Police Department at (203) 622-8000.