Remembering Jacob Wetterling: Mother thinks about murder after 35 years

Article

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – Jacob Wetterling was kidnapped and murdered 35 years ago, on October 22, 1989.

It was a case that gripped Minnesotans and the nation and had a lasting impact on many people's lives.

On October 22, 1989, Jacob was kidnapped by a masked gunman while riding his bicycle home with his younger brother and one of his friends. His disappearance remained one of Minnesota's biggest mysteries until Danny Heinrich, who had lived in nearby Paynesville, confessed in 2016 to kidnapping and killing the 11-year-old boy.

In the years following Jacob's disappearance, his mother, Patty Wetterling, helped found the Jacob Wetterling Resource Center, which provides victim assistance to families of missing children and adults and educates families and communities to prevent kidnapping and child sexual exploitation.

Patty Wetterling's thoughts on the anniversary of her son's murder

Patty Wetterling wrote a letter to mark the anniversary of Jacob's murder. Here is her full letter:

“On this day 35 years ago – October 22nd – our 11-year-old son Jacob was stolen from us and our lives changed forever.

“It's so hard to describe what happens on October 22nd every year. Before Jacob was found, we always tried to use this day to speak to the media, re-engage law enforcement and keep hope alive by urging the public to continue searching.” Then, on Labor Day weekend in September 2016, the man who kidnapped Jacob accepted a deal and led police to Jacob's remains. We finally got answers to what really happened that terrible day in 1989.

“And now, 35 years later, we’re still wondering… what do we do with this day?

“It doesn’t help that everything feels strangely similar this year. The weather in Minnesota is beautiful and unseasonably warm with temperatures in the 70s. Families have just celebrated a long weekend during the MEA school holidays. And the Minnesota Vikings played the Detroit Lions last Sunday, just like they did in 1989.

“Nevertheless, we still find it strength and comfort to remember Jacob on October 22 and gather with friends and family. As our grandchildren get older, our children have to deal with busy schedules and other life commitments, so it's a bit of a mess.” But Jerry and I prefer to stay home and continue to feel the support of everyone who has supported us through this tough journey have carried travel.

“I have always loved this cartoon that ran in the Minneapolis Star Tribune shortly after Jacob's discovery in 2016. A big thank you to cartoonist Dave Granlund for sharing his talent and heart and helping to keep hope alive for Jacob and all missing children.

“Last night, on the eve of October 22nd, we once again made Jacob's favorite meal – a steak dinner with baked potatoes and peanut butter swirl bars for dessert. Our friends Donna and Kevin plan to stop for corn and cheddar cheese soup on Tuesday,” and we've also heard from a few other friends who have never missed an October 22nd. We will turn on the light on our porch and play some Red Grammer music to sing along and be warmed by the gift of so much love and support. Later we go to the abduction site and say a few memorial prayers while reminiscing.

“I will also continue to work on my annual Dear Jacob letter as it helps me gain perspective on this strange life we ​​have led. We will never let this day pass without sharing how wonderful it was to have Jacob in our lives.” lives for these short 11 years.

“Our family is truly grateful for the support, the hugs, the love and the prayers that continue to bring us out of the darkness and back to our belief that there are many more good people in the world than bad. I definitely feel like it's time for good people to get back together.

“Jacob, your strong spirit continues to guide us and the whole world has benefited from knowing and loving you. You have changed so many lives and will remain in our hearts forever.”

“With all my love, Mom”