Early in the morning on January 31, 1857, the body of Dr. Harvey Burdell was found at 31 Bond Street, brutally murdered, strangled, and stabbed to death. This gruesome discovery was made at around 7:30 in the morning by young John (Johnny) J. Burchell, who was employed by Burdell to light the fireplace each morning. Upon finding the body, Johnny went to notify the housekeeper, Hannah Conlan. Conlan reported the news to Emma Cunningham, who ran to sit down, her two daughters, one of whom fainted, and George Snodgrass. Notably absent, was John Eckel, Emma's supposed clandestine lover [1]. 

​

Suspicion quickly fell on Emma Cunningham, as her relationship with Burdell was full of strife. Emma was a young widow, and there were rumors of her marriage to Burdell being a mere means of financial gain if their marriage was even legitimate at all, which many questioned. Also troubling the couple was issues of jealousy on both sides. Emma Cunningham held great disdain for Burdell's attractive young cousin, Dimis Hubbard, as well as for the many female dental patients Burdell was rumored to have trysts with. Further adding to the tension were the accusations of Emma Cunningham's own affair with John Eckel, who also resided at the residence. An investigation ensued upon the discovery of Burdell's body, and arrests were soon made [2]. 

​

​

​