Peggy Hettrick: A Life Cut Short

Peggy Hettrick’s name is tragically associated with one of the most controversial and protracted legal cases in Fort Collins, Colorado history. Her brutal murder in 1984, initially attributed to Timothy Masters, ultimately revealed systemic issues within the justice system and led to a profound reassessment of forensic science and investigative practices.

Born on October 27, 1955, Peggy Hettrick was a 30-year-old teacher’s aide and seamstress at the time of her death. Known for her kindness and vibrant spirit, she was described by friends and family as a creative and compassionate individual. She had a passion for sewing and design, skills she used to create clothing for herself and others. She was also known for her love of animals and her friendly, outgoing personality. Her life was characterized by a dedication to helping others and a genuine warmth that touched many around her.

On the morning of February 11, 1984, Peggy’s body was discovered in a field near the intersection of East Prospect Road and U.S. Highway 287 in Fort Collins. She had been stabbed and her body mutilated. The crime shocked the community and sparked a relentless investigation that would span decades. The investigation quickly focused on 15-year-old Timothy Masters, who lived nearby and admitted to fantasizing about violent acts. Despite a lack of physical evidence directly linking him to the crime, Masters was convicted in 1999 based primarily on his disturbing drawings and the testimony of a forensic psychologist.

Masters spent nearly a decade in prison before his conviction was overturned in 2008. DNA evidence, unavailable at the time of the initial trial, pointed to a different suspect: Dr. Richard Hammond, a former pathologist who had consulted on the Hettrick case. Hammond, who had a history of sexual misconduct, was eventually charged with Peggy Hettrick’s murder. He pleaded guilty to manslaughter in 2011, admitting to the killing but claiming it was unintentional during a sexual encounter.

The case highlighted significant flaws in the original investigation, including the reliance on flawed psychological profiling and the misinterpretation of forensic evidence. It raised serious questions about confirmation bias and the potential for investigators to focus on a suspect to the exclusion of other possibilities. The exoneration of Timothy Masters and the subsequent conviction of Richard Hammond served as a stark reminder of the importance of rigorous scientific analysis, ethical conduct, and the pursuit of truth in the criminal justice system.

While justice was finally served, the tragic loss of Peggy Hettrick’s life remains a profound sorrow. Her memory serves as a reminder of the human cost of crime and the importance of unwavering dedication to justice, integrity, and the pursuit of truth, even in the face of immense pressure and uncertainty. The case continues to be studied by legal professionals as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the need for vigilance against flawed evidence and biased investigations.