Crime & Safety
New York Cold Case: Sheriff Renews Appeal in 1979 Teen Murder
Geneseo, NY – Nearly five decades after a teenage girl was murdered along a rural highway in western New York, investigators are renewing their appeal for information that could finally identify her k
By Lena Wood · 2026-11-10T18:31:01.816Z
Geneseo, NY – Nearly five decades after a teenage girl was murdered along a rural highway in western New York, investigators are renewing their appeal for information that could finally identify her killer.
According to Livingston County Sheriff Thomas J. Dougherty, a news release issued Tuesday, Nov. 10, marks the 47th anniversary of the murder of Tammy Jo Alexander, whose body was discovered near Caledonia on Nov. 9, 1979.
Despite thousands of investigative leads over the decades, authorities have not identified the person responsible.
Teenager Found Murdered Along Route 20
Alexander was found along U.S. Highway 20, approximately half a mile southwest of Route 5 in the town of Caledonia, Livingston County.
Investigators say she was wearing tan corduroy pants, a multicolored plaid shirt, blue socks, brown shoes and a red nylon lined windbreaker with black stripes along the sleeves.
The jacket was manufactured by a company identified as Auto Sports Inc.
Authorities are particularly interested in hearing from anyone familiar with that company.
Alexander also wore a silver necklace containing three small turquoise stones and carried two keychains, including one shaped like a heart.
Investigators Continue Seeking Answers
Alexander would have turned 63 on Nov. 2, 2026.
The sheriff's office says investigators have pursued thousands of leads since her death, but none has resulted in identifying her killer.
Officials emphasized that advances in investigative techniques have helped solve other longstanding cases and that information from the public could still make a difference.
How to Contact Investigators
Anyone with information about Alexander's murder, her clothing or the circumstances surrounding her death is encouraged to contact Investigator James Merrick at the Livingston County Sheriff's Office.
Residents can call 585 243 7100 or email JamesMerrick@livingstoncountyny.gov .
The sheriff's office is located at 4 Court St. in Geneseo, New York.
Authorities say they remain committed to finding answers and providing closure to Alexander's family.