Orville's Revenge: The Anatomy of a Suicide

by Stephen B. Martin

60th Anniversary of the Disappearance of Orville Gibson The story of Orville Gibson, a Newbury, Vermont farmer whose frozen body was found in the waters of the Connecticut River on March 26, 1958, has remained controversial for sixty years. The investigation into Gibson’s death and the subsequent trials and acquittals made the case one of Vermont’s most famous murder investigations, featured twice in Life magazine. In Orville’s Revenge, retired Judge Stephen B. Martin of Barre, Vermont offers the fullest account of the events leading up to the victim’s disappearance and death, including the individuals involved and the expert testimony that was brought to light during the court proceedings. Why did investigators twist the facts to suit their theories instead of relying on observation to draw inferences based on what they observed? The verdict still stands. Gibson committed suicide out of revenge.

262 pages, Paperback

First published April 23, 2015

Reviews

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a child, I remember my father pointing out the Gibson farm and mentioning that the farmer had been murdered. I vaguely remember the trials even though I was young, but I never really knew the details. Stephen Martin was a lawyer involved with the case. His book is interesting and filled with details about not only the "murder" but the trials and inquest. He has spoken plainly and disdainfully about some of the legal participants.

If you like history and a bit of mystery, pick up this book and have a good read.

[jane jager]

Against the theory of suicide

The only surviving Jury member, a friend, Told me that there was never any mention or consideration of suicide during their deliberations. I have an electric edition of Martins book. Will have to check on the autopsy as to whether Orville died of drownding.
In addition, his personality does not suggest he was suicidal