Hazleton, PA – A decades-old double homicide case is back in the spotlight as Pennsylvania State Police continue their search for Edward Maps, a man wanted since 1962 in connection with a deadly arson in Stroudsburg.
Maps vanished after a fire erupted at a home on Sarah Street around 10:48 p.m. on June 21, 1962. Firefighters discovered 22-year-old Christine Maps and her 4-month-old daughter Julia Louise unconscious inside the residence. Christine later died from severe head injuries, and Julia was pronounced dead upon arrival at Monroe County General Hospital.
According to police, the blaze was intentionally set, with at least ten separate fires ignited throughout the home. Investigators also discovered the oven had been left on at 450 degrees with the door ajar. Authorities ruled the deaths as homicides with arson used to cover the crimes.
Two cars registered to Edward Maps were found at the scene, along with his wallet and identification. However, Maps himself was not located. A warrant was issued charging him with arson and homicide just hours later. He was soon added to the FBI’s 10 Most Wanted list, where he remained for nearly five years.
The most credible sighting of Maps came on August 7, 1962, when a man matching his description robbed the Little Falls Savings Bank in New Jersey. He was later identified through FBI photographs. Maps was born in nearby Passaic, NJ, only five miles from Little Falls.
Authorities are now offering a $5,000 reward for information that leads to Maps’ arrest. Tips can be submitted anonymously to PSP Hazleton at 570-459-3890 or through PSP Tips online.
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