Plumber Came To Fix A Blocked Pipe But Instead Solves Two Cold Cases

A Routine Plumbing Job Turns into a Crime Scene

In December 2017, a group of plumbers arrived at a basement apartment in Oshawa, Ontario, expecting to address a simple drain blockage. However, what they discovered was far from ordinary. As they snaked the pipes, they began pulling back what appeared to be flesh—perhaps ten to fifteen pounds of it. What initially seemed like a routine job spiraled into a horrifying crime scene as the police would soon uncover evidence of a gruesome murder.

The plumbers unknowingly stumbled upon the aftermath of a crime that would lead to the arrest of Adam Strong, a man whose depraved actions sent shockwaves through the community.

The Life of Rory Haslett

Born in July 1999, Rory Haslett was a spirited child with a love for animals and a penchant for adventure. She excelled in her pursuits, even earning accolades as an Army Cadet. Sadly, Rory also faced challenges; by her teenage years, she struggled with addiction after being introduced to crystal meth at just 14 years old.

Rory’s life was further complicated by her familial connections to a notorious world. Her grandfather, Bernie Ginden, was a prominent figure in the Satan's Choice Motorcycle Club, and her uncle was involved with the Hell’s Angels. Despite her troubled upbringing, Rory was turning her life around. By mid-2017, she was pregnant, in a stable relationship, and had stopped using drugs.

However, everything changed dramatically in August 2017, when a series of traumatic events pushed her back into a dark spiral.

The Final Days of Rory

On August 10, 2017, a fire at her mother’s home led to injuries and further complications in Rory's already tumultuous life. By the end of the month, she had experienced a significant mental episode, leading to a visit to the hospital. CCTV footage captured her leaving the hospital alone—this would be the last confirmed sighting of Rory.

Concern for her safety grew among friends and family, but it wasn’t until September 11, 2017, that the community was rocked by a grim discovery.

A Disturbing Find at Oshawa Harbor

That fateful evening, a grandfather and his grandson fishing at Oshawa Harbor made a shocking find: a human torso floating in the water. Initial examinations revealed trauma to the torso, indicating that it had likely been severed from the rest of the body. The gruesome nature of the discovery led police on a quest to identify the victim, which took until November 10, 2017, to confirm that the torso belonged to Rory Haslett.

But the questions remained: how did her body parts end up in the lake, and who was responsible for her murder?

The Plumbing Breakthrough

As the investigation into Rory’s disappearance progressed, the discovery made by the plumbers in December 2017 became the crucial turning point. Called to address a blockage in the plumbing, the plumbers smelled something foul in the basement apartment belonging to Adam Strong. While snaking the drain, they pulled back human flesh and immediately alerted the police.

When investigators arrived, they suspected that the remains might belong to Rory, and when they questioned Strong, he promptly admitted, "It's a body." The chilling confession was just the beginning of the nightmare that lay ahead.

A Depth of Horror Uncovered

In Strong’s freezer, police discovered various severed body parts, including a head with the tattoo "Alive," matching Rory’s. An autopsy revealed multiple facial injuries and blunt force trauma, with drugs found in her system. Strong’s inexplicable nonchalance when discussing his actions further painted a picture of his chilling character.

Investigators uncovered further evidence in Strong's apartment, including blood-spattered walls and Rory's belongings. It became clear that Strong had not only committed a heinous act against Rory but may have been involved in earlier crimes as well.

The Other Victim: Candace Fitzpatrick

An investigation into Strong’s history revealed more horrific findings. The DNA of another victim, Candace Fitzpatrick, was found on a knife in Strong’s apartment. Candace, reported missing since 2008, and Rory shared similar struggles with addiction, and both were believed to have crossed paths with Strong.

Despite the absence of Candace’s body for a decade, Strong's demeanor when discussing Rory’s murder proved to be a critical piece of evidence in court.

The Trial and Conviction

The trial revealed the extent of Strong’s depravity, with testimonies painting him as an aggressive individual who had previously engaged in dangerous behavior. His troubled history with women served to further characterize him as a predator. Strong maintained a facade of innocence, asserting no responsibility beyond the dismemberment of the bodies.

Nevertheless, Strong was convicted of first-degree murder for Rory Haslett’s death and manslaughter for Candace Fitzpatrick’s. Although he did not confess to the murders, the testimony and physical evidence were compelling enough to convict him.

A Haunting Legacy

The consequences of Adam Strong’s actions stretch far beyond the horrific murders he committed. Rory's family, connected to the notorious world of biker gangs, now faces an uncertain future. Rory’s murder also led to a greater awareness of violence against women in their community.

The tragic tale of Rory Haslett serves as a stark reminder of the dark realities that exist within society. Reports of abuse and violence are often silenced, leaving families and communities grappling with the aftermath long after the crimes have occurred.

Conclusion

The case of Rory Haslett and Adam Strong reveals a deeply troubling narrative of violence, loss, and societal failure. As we continue to grapple with the implications of such horrifying events, let us reflect on the need for vigilance, compassion, and support for those who find themselves trapped in the cycle of addiction and violence.

What are your thoughts on this harrowing story? Let us know in the comments below. Stay safe, and until next time, let's work together to build a more vigilant and supportive community.