Richard Cottingham: Infamous NYC ‘Torso Killer’ Admits 1965 Murder
Richard Cottingham, infamous for his brutal killings, has confessed to a 1965 murder. Known as the “Torso Killer,” Cottingham admitted to killing Alys Eberhardt, an 18-year-old nursing student. Her body was discovered in her family’s home located in Fair Lawn, New Jersey, approximately 12 miles northwest of Manhattan.
Confession and Investigation
The confession emerged as authorities reopened Eberhardt’s cold case in 2021. Following years of extensive interviews with Cottingham, police were able to extract a comprehensive confession. This included specific details previously unknown to the public. Fair Lawn Police Chief Joseph Dawicki confirmed the case’s closure, stating that no further charges will be brought against Cottingham.
Background on Richard Cottingham
Now 79 years old, Cottingham has been incarcerated since his arrest in 1980. He is currently serving three life sentences at South Woods State Prison in Bridgeton, New Jersey. Over the years, he has claimed responsibility for nearly 100 homicides dating back to the 1960s. However, law enforcement has officially linked him to about a dozen murders.
Known Victims
- Alys Eberhardt (1965)
- Diane Cusick (1968) – sentenced to 25 years to life
- Five women in New York City and northern New Jersey
- Others admitted while incarcerated
Legacy and Impact
Chief Dawicki expressed his hope that Eberhardt’s family can find peace now that the responsible individual has confessed. “Alys was a vibrant young nursing student who was taken from our community far too soon,” he remarked. Although her life cannot be restored, the confirmation of Cottingham’s guilt provides a sense of closure to the grieving family.
Immunity and Plea Deals
Cottingham was sentenced for the murder of Diane Cusick but received immunity for four other killings as part of his plea agreement. He continues to remain a focus of interest for ongoing investigations related to unsolved cases connected to his questionable past.
