More neighborhood disruptions expected as investigators renew search at Olney house

PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The on-scene investigation at the Chew Avenue house in Olney, and its connection to several missing women, picked up again on Monday. Those who live and work close by have been warned about increased disruptions in the neighborhood.

Investigators arrived Monday morning in large black trucks, vans and SUVs, blocking off Chew Avenue between Fourth and Fifth streets. Crews set up two large white canopy tents covering folding tables.

Police and city leaders met with residents and business owners at a community meeting on Sunday to warn them about the increased activity at the site, more than three months after the investigation began. Officials said there could be similar disruptions in the neighborhood through mid-October.

“There’s gonna be some level of machinery involved,” City Councilmember Anthony Phillips told reporters. “There’s gonna be a crew of federal and local officers involved. And they’re gonna be out here every single day until they uncover all the evidence possible.”

Phillips said there will be more road closures, and residents may have to move their cars. Trash pickup may also be affected. Officials have been working to make sure customers and clients can get to businesses and residents can get in and out of the neighborhood.

Investigators have already spent a considerable amount of time at the home where Eugene Horsch lived with his late father, R.C. Horsch. Police believe there is a connection to the disappearance of at least seven women over a number of years.

It has been a painstaking process for investigators with Philadelphia police and the FBI, as they have been going through the property and a massive amount of digital material — tens of thousands of photos and videos. While they believe five of the women are dead, they have not recovered any remains.