Westport PD Asks For Public's Help In Solving Cold Case Murder

WESTPORT, CT — The Westport Police Department is asking for the public's help in solving the cold case murder of 38-year-old Westport resident Joan M. Werktin, who was killed in 1989.

"The murder of Joan Wertkin is an active investigation and is being evaluated with advanced techniques," said Westport Police Lt. Jillian Cabana.

Wertkin's body was discovered at at about 11 p.m. on May 24, 1989, behind the shopping plaza at 337 Main Street in Westport. Police and fire personnel had been dispatched to the site on a report of a fire behind the plaza, and "arriving first responders observed a female body had been burned at that location near the wood line."

A short time later, Wertkin's husband contacted police to report her missing.

Police said that Wertkin "had allegedly left her residence earlier that evening to go grocery
shopping, but never returned home." Her car, a white 1988 BMW 325, was found parked in front of the shopping plaza.

Wertkin was described as a petite white female with long dark hair and a thin build, and on the night of her death, she was reportedly wearing a dark-colored running suit
made of velour type material.

"Investigators do not believe she drove herself to the Main Street location," authorities said.

Anyone with any information about the case is urged to contact Lt. Cabana or Det. Philip Restieri at 203-520-3831 or coldcasetips@westportct.gov.