122. Smells Like There Must Be Someone Missing Valentine Sally

On Valentine's Day 1982, eleven miles west of the traveler-stopover town of Williams Arizona, the body of a beautiful young woman was discovered in a ditch on the side of Interstate 40.  She was impeccably dressed, had not been sexually assaulted, but had - according to the coroner - been suffocated somehow.  What baffled police - and baffles them to this day - is why no one ever claimed her.  Over the years the authorities believed 15 different reported missing girls and young women might have been the body that came to be called "Valentine Sally," who to this day is buried in Williams - believe it or not - with the headstone showing the name of one of the 15 proven to NOT be her.  There is some evidence that she could have been the victim of convicted serial killer Royal Russell Long, but he never admitted to it and died in jail before any real attempt could be made to find out what he knew.  It seems clear that Valentine Sally came from a good home; that she hadn't been away for long; and that it would make sense that someone - somewhere - would know who she is and be looking for her.  Maybe that someone is YOU, beloved Tip-Ster...We wrap up this installment with a recap of a visit Melissa and Producer Mark made to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Homicide Headquarters - quite the fascinating experience - and quite humbling meeting men and women so dedicated to protecting and serving.