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Conviction November 1986 Missing Person

Josefina Rivera

Status Conviction
Type Missing Person
Date November 1986
Location Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Victim Age 25
Gender Female

Josefina Rivera was one of six women abducted by Gary Heidnik and held in his basement in Philadelphia. Two women died. Rivera eventually helped Heidnik pick up victims and was later freed. She cooperated with police and Heidnik was convicted. Her case exemplified survival and cooperation under extreme duress.

kidnapping Pennsylvania Philadelphia conviction Gary Heidnik survivor