29 years later, questions remain in Morgan Violi case

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Just three months ago, federal agents made a renewed call for tips in Morgan Jade Violi’s kidnapping and murder.

According to the FBI’s Most Wanted page, on July 24, 1996, at around 12:30 p.m., an unknown suspect kidnapped Violi from the parking lot of her apartment complex in Bowling Green.

Violi was only 7 years old.

It was not until several months later on October 26, 1996 that Morgan’s remains were found in Robertson County, Tennessee, according to the FBI.

Authorities say a white, full-size, older model van with a glass, louvered window in the passenger side sliding door was observed on July 25, 1996 where Violi’s body was found.

Several witnesses reported seeing a white male driving an older maroon Chevrolet van grab Morgan and place her in the passenger side of the van before speeding off in an unknown direction, authorities say.

According to authorities, the 1978 maroon Chevrolet van used in the abduction was stolen from Dayton, Ohio.

The FBI says that van was recovered in Franklin, Tennessee, at the Union 76 stop on July 26, 1996.

It will soon be 29 years since Violi’s remains were found, but her accused killer has still not been located.

The suspect is described as 20 to 30 years old in July 1996, making them between approximately 49 and 59 years old today. They are also described as having light brown hair with a medium height and weight. A sketch of the suspect is included above.

The FBI states it is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the subject(s) related to Violi’s kidnapping and death.

If you have any information concerning the suspect or this case, please contact your local FBI office or the nearest American Embassy or Consulate.