Our true crime specialists choose essentially the most chilling instances of 2025 within the FREE The Crime Desk publication

In 2025, cold cases were cracked back open, major murder trials dominated headlines, and long-whispered theories roared back into the mainstream.

From shocking arrests and courtroom bombshells to disturbing new evidence and voices silent for decades, The Crime Desk followed every twist in the world’s most gripping and chilling stories.

Our true crime experts have chosen the top stories that defined The Crime Desk in 2025. 

To see our yearly round-up, sign up for the free, weekly The Crime Desk newsletter. 

There was a breakthrough in the Zodiac Killer case as investigative consultant Alex Baber revealed a new suspect in a The Crime Desk world exclusive.

Criminology student Bryan Kohberger finally admitted to the savage murders of four University of Idaho students, without revealing his motive.

JonBenét Ramsey’s father revealed why he is more hopeful than ever that the 1996 slaying of his daughter will finally be solved.

Police in Boulder, Colorado, are retesting DNA evidence found at the scene of the six-year-old pageant queen’s murder. 

We also revisit the podcasts and videos that brought new life into the most chilling cases.

There is even more for true crime fans to get excited about in 2026, with the trial of Gilgo Beach serial killer suspect Rex Heuerman and the case of Kouri Richins, the Utah grief author and mother charged with murdering her husband.

Our reporters will be in the front row of court for both trials and following new leads in many other investigations in 2026. 

For more on the crime stories that shock the world, sign up for the free, weekly The Crime Desk newsletter. 

You’ll have exclusive access to top stories, Q&As with leading criminal experts, and all the latest podcasts and shows powered by the Daily Mail’s Crime Desk.

You can also send in your tips and suggestions of what cases to follow to the crimedesk@dailymail.co.uk