Investigators are scouring the sewers beneath a Philadelphia home linked to at least two missing women, searching for traces of DNA and chemicals that could indicate bodies were dissolved. The probe at the Olney neighborhood residence of Eugene Horsch, 44, intensified after the discovery of dangerous chemicals, firearms, and drugs inside.
Sources indicate that investigators are looking for evidence of a drug lab in addition to potential body decomposition materials. The search of the sewers began Monday, with authorities bringing in the local water department to assist. The operation follows the discovery of a “strange setup” involving a 55-gallon drum connected to a water line within the home, according to Frank Vanore, the Philadelphia Police Deputy Commissioner of Investigations.
Investigators also found a handwritten note within the residence that references “a drum set up” and contains a threatening message. The note, obtained by The Philadelphia Inquirer, states, “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.” It further reads, “I had been ready and waiting, and I damn sure showed no hesitation. And it was fun.” Police are working to determine if the note is authentic or a work of fiction.
Horsch was arrested on firearm and drug charges after authorities searched his home. The FBI evidence collection team and the Philadelphia Police Forensic Science Bureau collected a large quantity of hazardous chemicals, firearms, narcotics, 120 pieces of ballistics evidence, and the note for laboratory examination. The house has since been deemed safe.
The investigation into Horsch began on June 19 when a U.S. park ranger overheard an argument between Horsch and his girlfriend near Independence Hall. The girlfriend reportedly stated, “You’re going to hurt me,” prompting the ranger to investigate. Authorities discovered Horsch allegedly possessed 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 photo but the name of a woman reported missing in February 2023 from the Kensington area.
The girlfriend told police that Horsch had provided her with the fake ID because she had outstanding arrest warrants. Although she did not know the missing woman, she expressed suspicion that something may have happened to her.
Investigators are also looking into a possible connection to Amy McHale, a Philadelphia mother who was last heard from in a voicemail to her mother on June 13, 2016. In the message, she stated she was safe and at the Olney home, which at the time belonged to Eugene Horsch's late father, Raymond Charles “R.C.” Horsch. The elder Horsch, who died in 2025, had a criminal record including drug manufacturing and forgery. McHale's daughter, Amanda Stofer, expressed concern, stating her mother would not simply disappear.
No human remains have been found at the property to date, according to Vanore, though several urns were discovered inside the home. The investigation into Horsch's activities and potential connections to missing persons remains ongoing.