Investigators conducted interviews with Easterly’s associates, but insufficient evidence or information was gathered to identify a strong suspect, according to the sheriff’s office. No arrests were made. While some deputies had doubts about Greer, they admitted to lacking substantial evidence linking him to the Easterly case.
Several months prior, on August 27, 1979, Greer had contacted the sheriff’s office to report that his wife, Jackie Greer, had supposedly shot herself at their residence in Port Charlotte. The sheriff’s office had suspicions surrounding the incident but was unable to corroborate their concerns with evidence. Greer was not detained.
Around a year later, on October 3, 1980, Greer resigned from his position at the sheriff’s office just four days after a female acquaintance was discovered deceased. The sheriff’s office suspected an overdose as empty pill containers and a suicide note were found in the vicinity. Nonetheless, the woman’s husband alleged that Greer had been pursuing her and making advances, though no records were available to support this claim.
The sheriff’s office pursued numerous leads in the Easterly case, including reports of an affair between Easterly and a married deputy in Charlotte County. Despite their efforts, the case eventually went cold.
In 2016, the Cold Case Unit disclosed their suspicions regarding the case to prompt potential witnesses to come forward, leading to a breakthrough. A former Sheriff’s Office Explorer reported that Greer had sexually assaulted her and discussed killing Easterly. She also mentioned witnessing Greer with blood on his hand on the night the store clerk passed away.
Based on this information, the Cold Case Unit established probable cause to apprehend Greer. In April 2023, investigators traveled to Tennessee, where Greer was residing in an extended care facility, and he confessed to the shootings of both Easterly and his wife during the interrogation.
Greer passed away at the care center in Tennessee on March 2, 2024, at the age of 77. After 45 years, the previously unresolved case was officially closed by the sheriff’s office.
Truck slams into New Orleans crowd
A truck plowed through a crowd at a parade in New Orleans earlier today, resulting in multiple injuries. The incident occurred on Main Street during the city’s annual Mardi Gras celebration. Eyewitnesses report chaos and panic as the vehicle accelerated into the crowd, sending people running in all directions.
Emergency services quickly arrived at the scene to attend to the injured. Paramedics worked tirelessly to provide medical assistance to those hurt in the incident. The extent of the injuries is still being assessed, and authorities have not provided specific details on the number of casualties.
The driver of the truck has been taken into custody by law enforcement. Investigations are currently underway to determine the cause of the crash and whether it was intentional or accidental. Authorities have not released any information about the driver’s identity or possible motives at this time.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, with many expressing disbelief and concern over the safety of public events. Officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.
As the investigation continues, residents are coming together to support those affected by the incident. Local organizations and community members are offering assistance and resources to those in need. The city of New Orleans is known for its resilience, and many are confident that the community will come together to overcome this tragedy.
The aftermath of the truck crashing into the crowd has left a profound impact on the city and its residents. As details emerge and the investigation progresses, more information will be shared with the public. In the meantime, authorities are urging everyone to stay safe and alert in light of this unfortunate event.
