Twelve years ago, Philadelphia teacher Ellen Greenberg was found dead in her apartment following a blizzard. Her then-fiancé discovered her body, marked by 20 stab wounds, including 10 to the back of her head and neck, and covered in bruises of varying ages. Her parents, Sandee and Dr. Josh Greenberg, have been relentlessly pursuing answers from city and state officials ever since.
The Greenbergs express frustration with the lack of progress in the case. Sandee Greenberg criticizes the "unconscionable" behavior of politicians, while Dr. Greenberg points to the evidence of abuse reflected in Ellen's injuries, suggesting a possible motive for her death.
Initially, the medical examiner ruled Ellen's death a homicide, but later changed it to suicide after discussions with police and prosecutors. This change has fueled the Greenbergs' suspicion and determination to uncover the truth. They question how authorities could conclude there was no foul play, given the nature and extent of Ellen's injuries.
A petition with over 150,000 signatures calls on Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney to order a review of the case by the medical examiner. The petition emphasizes public scrutiny and the demand for accountability. The Greenbergs express their disappointment with the silence from officials, including Mayor Kenney, former Attorney General Josh Shapiro, and the Chester County authorities.
While two separate court cases are ongoing, the Chester County District Attorney's Office launched an independent investigation in 2022 after Shapiro, now the Pennsylvania governor, recused himself from the case. The Greenbergs criticize Shapiro for the delay, alleging inaction during his time as attorney general.
An independent journalist’s video alleging a conflict of interest due to campaign donations from Ellen's fiancé’s family preceded Shapiro's recusal. While Shapiro's office claimed an exhaustive review and new forensic analysis, they also cited withheld information. The Greenbergs highlight the lack of closure despite these efforts.
According to court documents, Ellen's fiancé, Samuel Goldberg, reported finding her dead with a knife in her chest, leaning against a kitchen cabinet. Experts like Guy D’Andrea, a former homicide prosecutor, question the suicide ruling, suggesting "undetermined" as a more appropriate classification. The Greenbergs’ private investigator points to evidence of staging and the missing surveillance footage.
The initial medical examiner, Dr. Marlon Osbourne, reportedly changed the manner of death from homicide to suicide after consulting with police. Tom Brennan, the Greenbergs' private investigator, revealed a significant head wound inflicted post-mortem. The Greenbergs emphasize the strength of their evidence and the credentials of their experts, including renowned forensic pathologists.
Dr. Wayne Ross, a forensic and neuropathology specialist, concluded that the evidence supports homicide and that the original autopsy overlooked signs of manual strangulation. Dr. Cyril Wecht, another leading expert, deemed the circumstances "strongly suspicious of homicide." The Greenbergs continue their fight for justice, armed with expert opinions and unwavering determination.
