Episode 22: Behind the Locked Door

In our latest episode of Super SUS, we explore the haunting and perplexing case of Ellen Rae Greenberg—a case that's as confounding as it is controversial. Join us as we delve into the tragic events surrounding Ellen's death, a saga that's kept her family and true crime enthusiasts searching for answers for over a decade.

The Life of Ellen Ray Greenberg

Ellen was a vibrant, young school teacher whose life was tragically cut short on January 26, 2011. Found dead in her locked apartment with twenty stab wounds, this case immediately raised eyebrows. Initially ruled as a murder, the death was mysteriously reclassified as a suicide, leaving her family in disbelief.

An Investigation Gone Wrong

Ellen's parents, Josh and Sandy Greenberg, have tirelessly campaigned to uncover the truth about their daughter's death. Her injuries and the circumstances surrounding her demise paint a chilling picture that investigators seem to have overlooked or ignored. From the start, things seemed off—Ellen was found with ten stab wounds in her back, which most experts argue one couldn't inflict upon themselves.

Moreover, bruises in varying stages of healing were found on her body, suggesting a history of abuse. Yet, despite these compelling signs, the official stance remained one of suicide. Our episode walks you through the perplexing conclusions drawn by various professionals involved in the autopsy and investigation.

The Battle for Justice

The Greenbergs' pursuit of justice took a significant turn in 2024 when the Pennsylvania Supreme Court agreed to revisit Ellen's case. After years of being stonewalled, the family's efforts began to bear fruit with new light shed on the investigation's mishandlings, including the premature cleanup of the crime scene and evidence removal by the fiancé's family.

In early 2025, a settlement with the city of Philadelphia included the promise to reevaluate Ellen's manner of death. Though Ellen’s parents were relieved by this development, they remain aware that real accountability may still be out of reach.

What Lies Ahead

As we dig deeper into this case, the question arises—how did this all happen? Why was Ellen's case so mishandled, and why does the truth remain evasive? The twists and turns echo what we often find in our Super Sus episodes: hidden truths and a need for justice in the face of tragedy.