$15K Reward Now Offered In Unresolved Berkshire Homicide

The Berkshire District Attorney’s Office is offering a $10,000 reward for anyone who provides information leading to an arrest and conviction in the 1974 murder of Kim Benoit.

In addition, the Benoit family, who continues to work closely with DA staff and law enforcement, has offered $5,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the case.

Tuesday, November 16, marks the 47th anniversary of the day Ms. Benoit’s body was discovered down an embankment alongside the Deerfield River in Florida, Mass. in 1974.

Ms. Benoit's family reported the then 18-year-old missing earlier in the month. She was last wearing blue pants, a white flower print blouse, brown shoes, dark socks, and a necklace. Kim was born and raised in North Adams, attended local schools, and resided on the west side of North Adams before her disappearance.

Since her discovery, investigators have worked tirelessly on the homicide to include renewed efforts in the early 2000s based on the receipt of a significant lead. Over the years, law enforcement has consistently followed up on case-related leads of moderate to significant value but still do not have enough to provide the family closure.

Offering the financial reward provides a new step in the hopes of individuals coming forward who may have information in the homicide. The Berkshire District Attorney’s Office renews its call for information as investigators explore the use of new technology and forensic resources. To assist State and local police investigators, the Berkshire District Attorney’s Office recently added a contract investigator to analyze case data, receive and prioritize phone tips for unresolved homicides, and prepare and prioritize information in advance of investigative operations.

“Our hearts are with the Benoit family as another year goes by without resolution. My office, the State Police and the North Adams Police have not forgotten Kim or her family and have never stopped investigating her murder,” District Attorney Andrea Harrington said.

“I believe there are people out there who know more about this case and, through the offering of a financial reward coupled with enhanced forensic technology, we hope to give the family the closure they deserve.”

The Berkshire District Attorney’s Office, the Berkshire State Police Detective Unit, and the North Adams Police remain dedicated to Benoit’s case and request that anyone with information contact troopers at 413-499-1112 or the North Adams Police Department at 413-664-4944.

Berkshire District Attorney Andrea Harrington’s office serves all 32 cities and towns in Berkshire County. The office represents the Commonwealth in more than 7,500 criminal cases per year in Berkshire Superior Court, three district courts, three juvenile courts, Massachusetts Appeals Court, and Supreme Judicial Court. The office works closely with the State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Berkshire District Attorney’s Office, the Berkshire Law Enforcement Task Force, and collaborates with local police departments across the county. A dedicated staff of more than 50 prioritizes public safety, empowering victims and witnesses through services and support, and building a safe community for everyone and especially the most vulnerable.