October 13 marked the 29th anniversary of the tragic death of Sterling Emmanuel Settle, a 14-year-old from Oxon Hill, Maryland, whose case remains unsolved. Settle was found on a logging road in Brandywine, Maryland, in 1995, and his murder still haunts the local community. Authorities are appealing for public assistance to bring justice to the victim’s family.
On that fateful day in 1995, at approximately 4 p.m., Charles County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) officers responded to a call reporting the discovery of a deceased male on a remote logging road off Covington Road in Brandywine. Upon arriving, officers found the body of Settle, who had suffered multiple gunshot wounds to his upper body. His death was ruled a homicide.
Settle, a freshman at Oxon Hill High School, was only 14 years old at the time of his murder. He was last seen alive in Prince George’s County near his home in Oxon Hill on the afternoon of October 9, 1995, just four days before his body was found. The circumstances surrounding his disappearance and death have remained a mystery ever since.
Investigators with the CCSO continue to work on the case, but despite numerous efforts over the years, no arrests have been made. The murder of a teenager so young and full of potential has left the community in shock and his family still searching for closure nearly three decades later.
The investigation into Settle’s death has been classified as a cold case, but CCSO and the community are hopeful that renewed attention on the case will encourage someone with information to come forward. Investigators stress that even the smallest piece of information could be crucial in solving this long-standing mystery.
Sterling Settle’s family has long awaited justice for their son, and law enforcement officials have not given up on finding the person or persons responsible for his death. In an effort to encourage public cooperation, Charles County Crime Solvers has joined forces with the CCSO to offer a reward of up to $10,000 for information that leads to an arrest or indictment in the case.
Those who may have any details, no matter how minor they may seem, are urged to come forward. Witnesses or individuals with information can contact Charles County Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). Callers can remain anonymous, ensuring that their identity is protected while they assist in the investigation.
The persistence of both the CCSO and the local community shows a deep commitment to resolving Settle’s case. Each year that passes without an arrest or conviction adds to the pain felt by his loved ones, who have never stopped hoping for justice.
The tragic loss of Sterling Settle, a young boy with his whole life ahead of him, remains an open wound for Oxon Hill and surrounding areas. Now, 29 years later, authorities are renewing their plea to the public in the hopes of finally bringing closure to this enduring cold case.