The Disappearance of Maura Murray

Introduction

Initially intended for "Decoding the Unknown," but moved to "Casual Criminalist."
Maura Murray's disappearance is considered the first crime mystery of the social media age.

Born May 4, 1982, in Hanson, Massachusetts.
Irish Catholic family, parents divorced when she was six.
High achiever in academics and athletics.
Attended West Point Military Academy but withdrew after three semesters due to disciplinary issues.
Transferred to the University of Massachusetts Amherst to study nursing.

November 2003: Involved in credit card fraud for under $250.
February 6, 2004: Maura had a breakdown while working her security desk job.
February 7, 2004: Crashed her father's new car after drinking at a party.
February 9, 2004: Engaged in unusual behavior, packed belongings, withdrew $280, and left UMass.

Car accident on February 9, 2004, in Woodsville, New Hampshire.
Local residents reported the crash, but by the time police arrived, Maura was gone.
Various belongings were left in the car, and some items were missing (e.g., credit cards, liquor).

Starting a New Life
- Impulsive behavior and potential mental health issues.
- Rumors of relationship problems.
Tandem Driver
- Possible that someone was driving with her in another vehicle.
Abducted by a Stranger
- Could have been taken by someone driving past or willingly gotten into another vehicle.
Suicide
- Tidying up personal affairs before leaving, possible locations planned for comfort.
A-Frame House
- Possible connection to a house near the crash site and suspicious activities by residents.
Hit-and-Run Connection
- Possible involvement in a hit-and-run accident involving a fellow student.

Videos by a user named "112 Dirtbag" taunted the investigation but were ruled as hoaxes.