About the Author

Veteran CNN and HLN journalist Susan Hendricks anchored the network's live news program Weekend Express from 2016 to December 2022. Among her many assignments at HLN, Hendricks anchored extensive coverage on the Delphi double murder investigation including the special report, "Delphi Murders: Teen Girls' Killer in Custody?" along with retired veteran cold case investigator Paul Holes. Hendricks also anchored the "Gabby Petito Investigation: Where is the Fugitive Fiance?" Susan recently sat down for a one on one exclusive interview with Gabby Petito's father Joe Petito, who shared the struggles he and his family have gone through and the action they are taking to change laws and make it easier for the families of missing loved ones. Additionally, Hendricks delivered news updates for 5 years on Anderson Coopers CNN primetime show, AC360. Prior to joining CNN/HLN, she served as a morning news anchor at NBC affiliate station WMIR-TV, and a reporter at ABC affiliate KESQ-TV, both in Palm Springs, CA. Raised in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Hendricks attended the Hun School of Princeton and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from Arizona State University. She resides in Atlanta with her husband, Joe, and two children, Emery and Jack.

Reviews

"Hendricks takes you behind the scenes of reporting on camera, in her car as she races to the next location, and in her heart where her doubts and fears live."--Defrosting Cold Cases

"Pensive... [Hendricks] gets to the heart of the story: Terrible crime seldom meets speedy retribution, and survivors often must live with trauma long after the event." --Kirkus

"I've watched my friend report, advocate, and support Abby and Libby's families with respect and dignity. You see, the double murder in Delphi stopped being a 'story' for Susan Hendricks from the first visit with Libby's family at their home. In the South, we know something incredible happens once you sit with someone at their kitchen table. From that tiny table to this book, Susan brings the families center stage in this victim-centered, family-oriented, loving story of ohana. Susan is no longer a reporter; she is family."--SHERYL "MAC" MCCOLLUM, crime scene investigator and host of Zone 7 podcast

"Susan Hendricks' commitment and compassion for victims and their families is unparalleled. Being immersed in one of this country's most tragic murders, Hendricks takes readers deep into the heart of a community torn and broken by the deaths of Abby and Libby. Rather than just reporting on two young lives senselessly stolen, Hendricks joins the fight for justice for Abby and Libby, and she is a true champion for finding the truth at the heart of evil."--KELLY MCLEAR, co-host of Killing Dad: The Crystal Howell Story Podcast

"With compassion, integrity, and accuracy, journalist Susan Hendricks takes a closer look inside the tragic homicides of two young girls, Abby and Libby, in Delphi. Having formed a close relationship with the victims' loved ones over several years, Hendricks provides unprecedented insight into their families' resilience, challenges, and relief once an arrest was made. Her sharp eye for detail shines through as she explores various facets of the case using her unique connections, including my thoughts about the investigation and assessment of the suspect. DOWN THE HILL is an incredibly compelling read that is hard to put down; you'll never look at this case the same way again."--PAUL HOLES, retired cold case investigator and New York Times bestselling author of Unmasked

"In DOWN THE HILL, Susan Hendricks deftly navigates the complexities of the Delphi case, presenting a narrative of tragedy, resilience, and hope. The book offers a deep dive into the investigation, laying bare its successes, setbacks, and detours. It stands as a model for what every book in this genre should strive to be: compelling in its truth, courageous in its narrative, and compassionate in its approach." --KEVIN BALFE, founder & executive producer, CrimeCon

"Prepare to be deeply moved and inspired by DOWN THE HILL as Susan Hendricks fearlessly steps into the heart-wrenching world of a shattered community. With unparalleled dedication and unwavering compassion, Hendricks becomes a beacon of hope for the victims and their families. In this gripping account of one of the nation's most tragic murders, she goes beyond mere reporting, immersing herself in the fight for justice and unmasking the truth behind a heinous act of evil. Hendricks' unwavering commitment and tireless pursuit of the truth make her a true champion for justice. DOWN THE HILL is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a reminder to never relent in the search for truth and healing."--DEANNA (BAUDI MOOVAN) THOMPSON, TV host and podcaster, Dont F**k with Cats and (Re)Solved

"Susan Hendricks is a storyteller with a heart, which is why the families of Abby and Libby opened up to her. Susan's attention to detail is coupled with her humanity as she tells the story of two girls, their families, and the town that would never be the same."
--ANA GARCIA, host of True Crime Daily: The Podcast

"Susan Hendricks is a veteran journalist who has always captivated audiences with her soothing delivery and compassionate relatability for every interview and story told. Hendricks garnered a trusting relationship with the families of Abby and Libby and the respect of law enforcement with her long track record of telling stories with grace and empathy. Her deep dive into the Delphi case captures not only the twists and turns of the investigation, but at the human level, shows how this tragedy rippled through the victims' loved ones and ignited the strength of the community in their shared pursuit for justice. Hendricks takes us on a truly compelling journey."--MELISSA MCCARTY, true crime correspondent

"Susan Hendricks is one of the most personable, talented, humble, and selfless journalists that I have ever worked with. Those qualities are what allowed her to cover this tragic double murder involving children in a way that few others could. Whether evaluating law enforcement's investigation, the outpouring of concern within and outside of the community, or the heartbreak endured by these brave and courageous families, DOWN THE HILL delivers. Compelling, gripping, and emotional--this is a story you just can't miss, told in a way that will both enthrall and consume you."--JOEY JACKSON, defense attorney & CNN legal analyst

"Susan Hendricks, my friend the journalist, has a heart of gold and you feel it when she tells stories of those impacted by trauma. She has told my story numerous times, so I speak from experience. Susan is raw, honest, and professional, and leads with honor and integrity in her storytelling; it is no wonder that Abby and Libby's families let her into their homes to share in their ongoing journey of grief and healing. DOWN THE HILL is a compelling read from beginning to end, from a trusted source who writes with kindness, compassion, and sensitivity. Thank you, Susan, for continuing to elevate the voices of victims and survivors."--KIM GOLDMAN, victim advocate, author, and podcast host of Media Circus and Confronting: OJ Simpson

"The Delphi Murders were tragic. The Delphi Murder investigation was complicated and nuanced. To tell this story, you have to be smart, relentless, and extremely compassionate. That's why Susan Hendricks is the right person for this job. I have worked with Susan for years; I know how she uses all her investigative journalism tools to get to the truth, but more importantly, she has the heart to tell the victims' story. DOWN THE HILL will make you understand what it really means when two wonderful girls are taken from their families, who then have to wait years for justice."--VINNIE POLITAN, lead anchor, Court TV