RIDGEFIELD PARK, NJ — In a groundbreaking development, United Search Corps (USC) has resolved the 42-year-old mystery of Charles "Chip" Murphy’s disappearance. Chip, who was 25 years old at the time, vanished on April 29, 1982, after attending a New York Yankees game. Later that day, he was seen leaving a friend’s house in Ridgefield Park, New Jersey, driving his girlfriends 1974 Chevy Camaro. Both Chip and the vehicle disappeared without a trace, leaving his family, friends, and community in anguish over his fate for decades.
On April 30, nearly 42 years to the day since he went missing, USC's dedicated missing persons unit made a pivotal discovery. Chip's Camaro was discovered submerged 12 ft deep within the Overpeck Creek just blocks away from where he was last seen.
The Bergen County Prosecutor's Office has positively identified the remains as Mr. Murphy’s, thus providing closure to a case that has haunted the community for over four decades. The recovery operation showcased the power of collaboration and innovation in solving cold cases nationwide, involving United Search Corps, Bergen County Regional Dive Team Led by Tim Andro, Bergen County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, Bergen County Sheriff’s Department, Ridgefield Park Police Department, Maywood Police Department, and supported by the Bergen County Office of Emergency Management, and the New Jersey State Police.
At this moment, our thoughts and prayers are with Chip’s family, friends, and all those affected by this tragedy. It is our hope that this resolution brings them some measure of peace.
United Search Corps is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to solving missing persons cases. Funded by donations, USC offers its services to families free of charge and provides law enforcement with contracting, consultancy, and support for both active and cold cases. Our approach integrates public awareness, advocacy, and advanced search techniques to assist victims and their families in their search for answers.
For more information or to arrange an interview, contact us at info@unitedsearchcorps.org.