The Long Shadow of Katy's Killer

In this sequel to his 2021 true-crime book A STRANGER KILLED KATY, author William D. LaRue puts a spotlight on stunning developments surrounding the brutal 1986 murder of Clarkson University sophomore Katherine "Katy" Hawelka. While Katy's family continues their tireless fight to keep convicted killer Brian M. McCarthy behind bars, McCarthy attempts to rewrite history, portraying his heinous crime as a tragic accident.

LaRue draws on New York parole board transcripts, prison records, interviews, and newly uncovered psychological evaluations to expose McCarthy's campaign to win freedom. The story builds to a dramatic 2023 parole hearing, where McCarthy's manipulations collide with a board determined to uncover the truth.

THE LONG SHADOW OF KATY'S KILLER is a sobering account of an inmate's enduring quest for parole, and a family's unyielding determination to honor their daughter's memory. LaRue's masterful storytelling will leave readers riveted-and inspired by a case that proves that, sometimes, justice prevails.