City Cast Philly logo
December 21, 2022

Why Philly’s Girl in the Box Case Was Forgotten

City Cast Philly

Why Philly’s Girl in the Box Case Was Forgotten

00:00:00
View all City Cast Philly episodes

Joseph Augustus Zarelli, formerly known as the boy in the box, made headline news in the city. But there is another cold case involving a child known as “the girl in the box.” A young Black girl was found discarded in a box in the 60's. She has not received the same treatment as Zarelli. We have new forensic advancements, but how far will they take us? City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri speaks with Lynette Hazelton, Communities and Engagement Desk Reporter for the Philadelphia Inquirer, about why the story about this little girl has been overlooked for decades. 


***Please be advised that this episode includes descriptions of a very graphic crime that involves a child. 


Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter.


We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly.


Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. 

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Hey Philly

Stay connected to City Cast Philly and get ready to join the local conversation.

Can't subscribe? Turn off your ad blocker and try again.

Latest Episodes

See all
April 10

Deadly Garage Collapse, Fight over President’s House & Guest Parking Passes Go Digital

It’s the Friday news roundup! First, we have the latest on a deadly parking garage collapse in Grays Ferry. We’ll talk about the most rec...

City Cast Philly podcast episode art
April 9

What Could the Future of Baltimore Avenue Look Like?

Baltimore Avenue has beloved coffee shops, bars, restaurants, and bookstores, like Little Bean, a new addition to the corridor. But thing...

City Cast Philly podcast episode art
April 8

Could Pennsylvania Finally Raise Its Minimum Wage?

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives has passed a slew of bills that would reshape some aspects of life in the state. Lawmakers vote...

City Cast Philly podcast episode art
April 7

You Should Join a Club This Week. Here's How.

Philadelphia boasts dozens of clubs, civic organizations, and communities that can help denizens get connected and stay engaged. But find...

City Cast Philly podcast episode art
April 6

Philly’s Thrifting Secrets

As the weather warms up, it’s time to ditch winter clothes for shorts and skirts. But how can you build the perfect summer wardrobe witho...

City Cast Philly podcast episode art
April 3

PECO Price Hikes, Neighborhood Upgrades & Sports Team Folds

It’s the Friday news roundup! PECO says it wants to raise prices again – here’s how it could affect your bill, and where the money would...

City Cast Philly podcast episode art
April 2

Who Will Philly Voters Send to Congress This Year?

This fall, Philadelphia voters will send a new lawmaker to D.C. to represent Pennsylvania’s 3rd Congressional District. For the first tim...

City Cast Philly podcast episode art
April 1

Your Guide to April 2026 in Philly

Spring is now in full bloom, and so is the city. There are so many events, places to eat, and free things to do in Philly this April. Mak...

City Cast Philly podcast episode art
March 31

School Closures Can Result in Violence. Here’s How to Mitigate the Tension

While students and families wait for the School Board to vote on the Facilities Master Plan, a plan that could close 18 public schools an...

City Cast Philly podcast episode art
March 30

How Philly is Cleaning One of its Most Hazardous Sites

For residents of Port Richmond in the Northeast, the Franklin Slag Pile is a familiar sight. It's a huge black mound at the corner of Cas...

City Cast Philly podcast episode art