New details have emerged about Laura Willsey, a West Palm Beach woman reported missing in July 2024, revealing she was an informant for the local police department. Her involvement in a case against a man now accused of her murder adds complexity to the investigation. CBS12 News reports that Todd Reichert, currently in jail for a separate offense, is linked to Willsey’s death after DNA tests found traces of her blood in his vehicle.
While Reichert remains incarcerated, detectives discovered blood splatter and droplets inside and outside of Willsey’s apartment, according to CBS12 News. DNA belonging to Willsey was found on the driver’s side floorboard of a 2010 Volkswagen Reichert reportedly used the day she disappeared. These findings suggest a connection between Willsey and Reichert.
An affidavit obtained by WPTV highlights the risks Laura faced as an informant in a burglary case involving Reichert. The documents note that a detective feared for her safety, suspecting she may have been targeted due to her role in the investigation.
A witness told authorities about an argument between Laura, Todd, and others on the night she went missing. The witness also reported hearing bags being dragged and said Todd mentioned he was going to Belle Glade without his phone to avoid being tracked. This suggests a planned effort to evade detection. Willsey’s disappearance, lasting 213 days, was eventually ruled a homicide.
Todd Reichert awaits his next court appearance later this month.
