Police Locate Car Of Chelmsford Teen Missing Since 1982

CHELMSFORD, MA — Police have located the vehicle that belonged to Chelmsford teen Judy Chartier, who has not been seen since June 5, 1982.

Significant pieces of the vehicle, a 1972 Dodge Dart Swinger, was found in the Concord River in Billerica Tuesday by the Massachusetts State Police Dive team and civilian divers, said investigators. Through a match of the Vehicle Identification Number, those pieces were confirmed to be from Chartier's car.

“This is a very significant development in this case and we are still processing the car for any additional evidence," said Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan in a statement. "Sadly, this discovery comes after nearly forty heartbreaking years of Judith’s friends and family missing her and wondering about what happened that day. We are committed to continuing the search for those answers.”

Charier, who was 17 years old at the time, disappeared after leaving a party in Billerica. Friends reported that she was last seen around 2 a.m.

“I want to commend and thank investigators from Chelmsford, Billerica, and the District Attorney’s Office for their continued efforts on this case over many years,” said Chelmsford Police Chief James Spinney in a statement.

The investigation is being conducted by the DA's office, Massachusetts State Police, Billerica police, and Chelmsford police.