David Zandstra, an 83-year-old former pastor, has been apprehended in connection with the cold case murder of an 8-year-old girl in Pennsylvania. The crime dates back to 1975 when Zandstra confessed to abducting and killing the young girl, Gretchen Harrington, on her way to Bible camp.
According to the Delaware County District Attorney’s office, Zandstra lured Harrington into his green station wagon on August 15, 1975. He then drove her to a remote location where he attempted to sexually assault her. When she resisted, he brutally murdered her. After the heinous act, Zandstra, who was familiar to the victim’s family, returned to his church duties.
Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer described Zandstra as a “monster” and “every parent’s worst nightmare” during a press conference. He expressed his disgust at Zandstra’s audacity to act as a family friend during the girl’s burial and for years afterward, despite being her killer.
Zandstra, who currently resides in Georgia, was arrested following his confession. His arrest came after investigators interviewed a woman who claimed to be Zandstra’s daughter’s best friend. She alleged that Zandstra had sexually assaulted her during a sleepover at his home when she was 10 years old. When confronted with these allegations, Zandstra confessed to the abduction and murder of Harrington.
Harrington’s skeletal remains were discovered weeks later in Ridley Creek State Park, over seven miles from her home. Zandstra has been charged with criminal homicide, first, second, and third-degree murder, kidnapping of a minor, and possession of an instrument of crime.
The victim’s family expressed their hope for justice in a statement, saying, “Gretchen was only 8 years old when she was suddenly taken away from us on her way to church on Friday, August 15, 1975. If you met Gretchen, you were instantly her friend. She exuded kindness to all and was sweet and gentle.”