After more than five decades, authorities have arrested 77-year-old Joseph A. Ambroz in connection with the 1969 murder of 17-year-old Mary Kay Heese. The arrest follows renewed investigative efforts and crucial information provided through a tip line established by Heese’s family.
Background of the Case
On March 25, 1969, Mary Kay Heese, a junior at Wahoo High School, was reported missing after failing to return home from track practice. Her body was discovered the following morning in a roadside ditch south of Wahoo, Nebraska. She had been stabbed multiple times, and despite extensive investigations involving over 700 individuals, the case remained unsolved for decades.
Renewed Investigations and Family Involvement
In recent years, Heese’s family took proactive steps to revive the investigation by establishing a dedicated tip line. This initiative encouraged individuals with any information about the case to come forward, significantly aiding law enforcement efforts. Additionally, in September 2024, authorities exhumed Heese’s body to perform a new autopsy, seeking further evidence.
Arrest of Joseph A. Ambroz
On November 18, 2024, U.S. Marshals arrested Joseph A. Ambroz at his residence in Ponca City, Oklahoma. A Saunders County Grand Jury had indicted Ambroz on charges of first-degree murder, leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant. Ambroz, who had recently moved to Ponca City, is currently awaiting extradition to Nebraska to face trial.
The arrest has brought a sense of relief and closure to Heese’s surviving family members and the Wahoo community. Many have expressed gratitude for the persistent efforts of law enforcement and the impact of the family’s dedication to seeking justice. The case highlights the importance of community involvement and the enduring pursuit of justice, regardless of the passage of time.
As legal proceedings commence, authorities continue to encourage anyone with additional information about the case to come forward. The arrest of Ambroz marks a significant milestone in a case that has haunted the community for over half a century, underscoring the advancements in investigative techniques and the unwavering commitment to resolving cold cases.
