206 Cases Solved. Advancing justice for missing persons, unsolved homicides, unidentified and unclaimed remains.
Description
See any errors? Let us know!Howard Arthur Allen: A Detailed Account of His Crimes
Early Life and Background
Howard Arthur Allen was born on February 10, 1949, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Raised in a large family, he faced challenges during his upbringing. Despite these difficulties, Allen's early life did not foreshadow the violent path he would later take.First Known Murder: August 1974
In August 1974, Allen committed his first known murder. He broke into the home of 85-year-old Opal Cooper with the intent to rob her. During the burglary, he brutally beat Cooper, leading to her death. Allen was subsequently arrested and charged with manslaughter. He received a sentence ranging from 2 to 21 years in prison and was paroled in January 1985 after serving less than 11 years.Renewed Violence: May 1987
After his release, Allen resumed his criminal activities. On May 18, 1987, he attacked a 73-year-old woman in her home. Although she survived the assault, the incident marked the beginning of a new series of violent crimes targeting elderly individuals. ...Read MoreVictims
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Confirmed Victims: (3)
Opal Cooper Age: (85), Date of Death: 1974-08-24 ...View 2 additional victims
Links to Additional Sources (6)
See any mistakes? Let us know!Killer's Details
Howard Arthur
Allen
February 10, 1949 Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
June 5, 2020 (aged 71) Indiana, United States
Male
Black
Death (commuted to 60 years)
3+
1974 - 1987
Indiana
August 4, 1987
Wabash Valley Correctional Facility — Haddon Township, Sullivan County, Indiana
07/03/2025










