On February 13, 2017, Abigail “Abby” Williams, 13, and Liberty “Libby” German, 14, went for a hike along the Monon High Bridge Trail in Delphi, Indiana. What began as a normal afternoon quickly turned into one of the most widely followed cases in recent years.

When the girls failed to return home, a search effort was launched. By the next day, both Abby and Libby were found in a wooded area near the trail, leaving the small community in shock.

One of the most significant pieces of evidence came from Libby German’s phone. She had recorded a short video and audio clip of a man shortly before the incident. In the recording, a voice can be heard saying the now well-known phrase, “Down the hill.”

For several years, the case remained unresolved despite ongoing investigations and public appeals for information. The recording became central to the case, widely shared in hopes of identifying the individual.

In October 2022, authorities arrested Richard Allen, a Delphi resident who worked as a pharmacy technician. Investigators stated that ballistic evidence, including a bullet found near the scene, was linked to a firearm associated with him.

Witness statements also placed Allen on the trail around the time the girls were last seen, contributing to the case presented by prosecutors.

Prosecutors allege that Allen acted alone, while his defense team argues that the case relies heavily on circumstantial evidence and disputes key elements of the investigation.

As of 2025, Richard Allen remains in custody awaiting trial, and the case continues to move through the legal system.

The families of Abby and Libby have remained present throughout the process, attending hearings and continuing to seek answers.

Years later, the case continues to leave a lasting impact, remembered not only for the investigation but for the two young lives at its center.