Fayette County Sheriff’s Department announced an arrest Thursday, July 9, in the 1986 disappearance of Denise Pflum from eastern Indiana.
Pflum, then 18, disappeared from Connersville on March 28, 1986, but her case remained unsolved.
On Thursday, Shawn M. McClung was charged with voluntary manslaughter, a Class B felony, after an investigation led by Sheriff Joey Laughlin and Detective Chad Blaes.
The information and probable cause alleges that McClung previously claimed that Pflum was still alive, but has recently admitted that he killed her in March 1986, the sheriff’s department statement said.
“No further comments will be made at this time, as the investigation is ongoing regarding the involvement of other parties,” the statement concluded.
A post on the “Justice for Denise Pflum” Facebook page shortly after the sheriff’s department announcement expressed thanks for all the love and support the family has been shown through the years.
“We appreciate that Denise has become like family to all of you,” the statement read. “Our daughter was a special person whom we will never forget, and we know that this community will not forget. We are so grateful for all of those who have followed her story, who have helped with the investigation, and who have shown support and love.
“At this time we ask that you respect our privacy, and allow us the time we need to mourn and grieve our beloved daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin and friend. Denise was a wonderful young woman, her light is never gone. Her love will always remain with us, and with all of you. Thank you for all of your help. We love and appreciate every one of you.”