Investigators discovered a disturbing collection of dangerous chemicals, a 55-gallon drum, and a handwritten letter referencing serial killer Ted Bundy at the Philadelphia home of Eugene Horsch, a convicted felon being probed for possible links to at least two missing women. Horsch, 44, was arrested on drug and firearms charges following a search of his residence by the FBI and local police.
The investigation began when a U.S. park ranger overheard an argument between Horsch and his girlfriend near Independence Hall on June 19. The girlfriend was heard saying, “You’re going to hurt me,” prompting the ranger to alert other law enforcement agencies. During the encounter, authorities found Horsch allegedly in possession of a fake Drug Enforcement Administration badge, a switchblade, and two firearms with obliterated serial numbers. His girlfriend was found with a fake ID bearing her photograph but belonging to a woman reported missing in February 2023.
According to police, Horsch's girlfriend stated that he had given her the fake ID because she had outstanding arrest warrants. Although she did not know the woman whose identity she was using, she expressed concern for her well-being.
The subsequent search of Horsch's three-story home in the Olney section of Philadelphia uncovered a substantial quantity of chemicals, a 55-gallon drum connected to water lines, and approximately 120 pieces of ballistics evidence. The volume and nature of the chemicals prompted the FBI to join the investigation to identify the materials. Philadelphia Police Deputy Commissioner Frank Vanore stated that some of the chemicals, if mixed and ignited, could pose significant hazards.
A handwritten, unsigned letter found at the scene contained chilling references to harming people and Ted Bundy. The letter, obtained by reporters, included phrases such as, “Acting on emotion is where problems occur. What I don’t think I told you was that the first time it was planned ahead of time. The threat was made before you know who came over, and I already had a 2ft zip tie in my pocket and a drum set up,” and “I had been ready and waiting, and I damn sure showed no hesitation. And it was fun.” Investigators are working to determine the authorship and authenticity of the letter.
Authorities also discovered a bank card in the name of the woman who went missing in 2023 and a death certificate for another woman who died last year within the residence. Evidence of narcotics and drug cultivation was also found. While urns were present in the home, with at least one labeled with a family member's name, police confirmed that no human remains have been found on the property.
Horsch’s arrest has raised concerns for the family of Amy McHale, who disappeared in 2016 and was last known to have been at the Olney home. McHale was previously married to Horsch’s late father. Her daughter expressed immediate concern upon hearing of Horsch's arrest.
Horsch has a prior felony conviction for assault, and additional charges outside of Philadelphia. His attorney suggested that many of the chemicals found might have belonged to Horsch's father, R.C. Horsch, who was known for his work as an erotic photographer and filmmaker and had his own past convictions, including forgery. Records indicate that federal agents raided R.C. Horsch’s home laboratory in 1977 due to suspected methamphetamine manufacturing equipment. He later fled the country under an alias.
Federal experts are assisting in the ongoing investigation and the removal and identification of the chemicals found at the residence.