A year of cold cases, dramatic arrests, near‑riots, and the mysteries that still haunt Norwood.
Some stories rise to the top because they’re gripping.
Others because they’re tragic.
And some because they leave behind questions that echo for decades.
In 2025, Norwood readers returned again and again to the town’s most dramatic crime stories — the unsolved cases, the shocking headlines, and the moments when ordinary days turned into front‑page news.
This is your Crime & Mystery Wrapped — the most‑read stories of danger, intrigue, and community memory.
The Geraldine Annese Case: Norwood’s Most‑Read Mystery
No crime story drew more attention in 2025 than the heartbreaking and still‑haunting murder of 15‑year‑old Geraldine Annese, found in a South Norwood garage in 1954.
Readers also revisited the tense lead‑up to the trial of Peter Makarewicz, the Norwood youth accused in the case.
Together, these two articles formed the most‑read crime cluster of the year — a reminder that some mysteries never fully fade.
The Gas Station Kidnapping: A Crime That Shocked the Town
Another major draw was the dramatic 1979 gas station kidnapping — a story filled with twists, fear, and unanswered questions.
Readers were captivated by the investigation, the suspects, and the lingering sense of unease that surrounded the case.
Federal Raids & Organized Crime
One of the most‑shared crime stories of 2025 was the 1933 federal raid that swept through Norwood and Dedham.
The article offered a rare glimpse into Prohibition‑era enforcement — a time when bootlegging, gambling, and organized crime left their mark on the region.
The Attempt on ‘Punchy’ McLaughlin’s Life
Readers were fascinated by the 1965 story of the attempted killing of “Punchy” McLaughlin, a figure tied to Boston’s gangland wars.
This article blended local history with the broader saga of organized crime in Massachusetts — a combination that kept readers hooked.
A Near‑Riot at Roll‑Land
One of the most surprising crime‑related stories to surge in 2025 was the 1964 Roll‑Land incident, when police were forced to disperse massive teenage crowds and prevent a riot.
It was a reminder that even beloved landmarks had their chaotic nights.
Hostage Situations & High‑Stakes Standoffs
The dramatic 1974 hostage crisis — in which an officer was shot and two suspects were arrested — remained one of the most‑read emergency stories of the year.
Readers revisited the tense standoff, the police response, and the aftermath that shook the community.
Shots Fired at the Old Colonial Café
Another widely read story was the 1957 shooting at the Old Colonial Café — a reminder that even familiar gathering places have seen moments of danger.
The article’s mix of local color and sudden violence made it one of the year’s most‑shared crime features.
Additional Crime Stories Readers Returned To in 2025
• Murdered Norwood Woman Found With Stocking Around Neck (1964)
A chilling case that resurfaced in reader interest.
• South Dedham Double Murder & Suicide (1865)
One of the earliest and most disturbing crimes in local memory.
• Body of Nellie Keras Found Hidden in Cellar (1932)
A grim discovery that shocked the town.
• Norwood Woman Found Murdered (1930)
Another tragic case that continues to draw attention.
• Firebug Sought in Two Norwood Blazes (1951)
Arson investigations always pull readers in — this one was no exception.
• Four Norwood Young Men Arrested for Break‑Ins (1929)
A Prohibition‑era crime spree that fascinated modern readers.
• 6 Other Attacks on Girls Recently in Norwood (1954)
A disturbing cluster of incidents that resurfaced in 2025 readership.
• Boys’ Pranks Land Them in Court (1902)
A lighter but still crime‑related story — mischief that went too far.
• Police Raid Man’s Store & Home (1924)
A dramatic raid that continues to intrigue readers.
Crime & Mystery Wrapped: Your 2025 Takeaway
This year’s most‑read crime stories revealed a town shaped not only by triumphs and traditions, but by the darker moments that tested its resolve. From unsolved murders to federal raids, from near‑riots to hostage crises, Norwood’s past is filled with stories that still spark curiosity — and remind us how much the town has endured.
2025 proved that Norwood’s mysteries continue to fascinate, unsettle, and connect readers across generations.
Compiled by the Norwood Historical Society, with the assistance of Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini.
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