Dale P. Barbee, a 22-year-old male, was found dead on August 5, 1980, in a wooded area near Maple Street and Craig Street in Urbancrest, Ohio, located in southern Franklin County. His body was discovered around 3:25 p.m., and it was determined that he had been strangled and shot. The previous day, August 4, Dale was last seen alive when he left his home to meet a business client, and he never returned. It is suspected that robbery may have been a motive for his murder, but the specific circumstances leading to his death remain unclear. Investigators describe the events as "sketchy" and are seeking any information that might provide a clearer picture of what transpired.
Dale Barbee stood 6 feet tall, weighed 170 pounds, and had brown hair and brown eyes. The investigation into his death is being conducted by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, which has made appeals to the public for any potential leads that could help solve the case. The Ohio Attorney General's Office has also highlighted his case, including it in the state's unsolved homicides database in hopes of generating tips that could help solve the crime.
The tragic death of Dale Barbee has remained a cold case for decades, and authorities continue to seek information that could bring justice for him and closure to his loved ones. Anyone with information about the case is encouraged to contact Central Ohio Crime Stoppers or submit a tip through the Ohio Attorney General's Office.
