REED CITY — The unsolved murder of Janette Roberson remains a haunting mystery 43 years after her tragic death. Her family and community are coming together for the annual Justice for Janette walk this Saturday, aiming to raise awareness and encourage anyone with information to come forward.
Roberson was murdered on Jan. 19, 1983, while working in the pet department at the former Gambles store in Reed City. Her family has fought for answers since that day and despite numerous tips and police interviews, no arrests or charges have been made.
The Justice for Janette walk is scheduled for Saturday from noon to 3 PM, starting at the Reed City Depot. Family members and community supporters participate in hopes of generating new leads in the investigation into Janette’s murder, which continues to be classified as an open case.
Lana Jarvie, Janette’s sister, vividly recalls the moment she learned of her sister’s death. “I didn’t believe she was dead. All these scenarios in my head, well, she’s in the witness protection program or, you know, they mistook her body or something. But I didn’t believe she was dead,” she said, reflecting the disbelief she felt during that traumatic time.
Despite the challenges, Lana remains determined to see justice for her sister. “I’m a dog person. I am very stubborn. My husband says that I’m the most stubborn person he’s ever met. And if somebody tells me I can’t do something, it’ll get done. And I might die before this is solved,” Lana stated. This determination drives her to organize community efforts that keep Janette’s memory alive.
Lana believes there is someone in the community who knows details about her sister’s murder. “That’s why I said there’s a monster around Reed City. Someone doesn’t have no morals, somebody has no conscience. Zero, unless they’re dead,” she expressed, reiterating the frustrations felt by her family after years without closure.
The Justice for Janette walk is set to take place this Saturday and police encourage anyone with information about Roberson’s case to contact the Michigan State Police at 989-773-5951 or the Reed City Police Department at 231-832-3743.