The Templeton Woods Murders- Carol Lannen and Elizabeth McCabe

On the north-western edge of Dundee lies Templeton Woods — and within eleven months, two young women were found there, strangled, barely 150 yards apart. Carol Lannen, 18, a new mother, was found in March 1979. Elizabeth McCabe, 20, a nursery nurse, was found in February 1980, one day before her 21st birthday. This extended, victim-first episode tells their stories — who they were, and what those who loved them remember — and asks why, more than four decades on, no one has ever been brought to justice.Content & Sensitivity NoteThis episode discusses the murder of two young women, including strangulation and the disposal of remains. It references historic press language about one victim that her family has always disputed. Listener discretion advised. Support resources are listed at the end of these notes and read aloud in the episode.The VictimsCarol Lannen — 18— The youngest of five children; experienced time in care and a difficult early home life.— A young mother to a baby son who was just three months old at the time of her death.— Labelled a sex worker in period reporting — an account her family has always firmly rejected, describing her instead as a young mum in a relationship and planning to marry.— Last seen in Dundee city centre on the night of 20 March 1979; found in Templeton Woods the next afternoon.Elizabeth McCabe — 20— The eldest of four children from a close, loving family in Lochee.— A trainee nursery nurse who adored children; remembered as shy, gentle and home-loving.— Had recently begun college and, for the first time, discovered a love of nights out and dancing.— Last seen leaving a city-centre club in the early hours of 11 February 1980; found 16 days later, the day before her 21st birthday.Key Facts at a GlanceLocationTempleton Woods, north-western edge of DundeeVictim 1Carol Lannen, 18 — found 21 March 1979Victim 2Elizabeth McCabe, 20 — found 26 February 1980Cause of deathStrangulation (both)ProximityBodies found roughly 150 yards apartKey Lannen detailBelongings found c. 85 miles north, by the River Don, AberdeenshirePress nicknameThe “disco killer”2007 trialOne man tried for the McCabe murder; found not guilty (acquitted)Current statusBoth unsolved; open and under periodic review by Police Scotland*music by leberch from pixabay