Delphi community begins to feel impact of Allen trial

DELPHI, Ind. – If you ask those on any Indiana Main Street how it’s changed over the years, they’d probably bring up physical things — storefronts and people.

But no others have changed so rapidly and in the way Delphi has.

Purple and blue ribbons, and small stickers here and there quietly decorate downtown as some who call it home worry two names will be lost in all the noise over at the courthouse: Abby Williams and Libby German.

Residents didn’t want to go on camera Friday, telling FOX59/CBS4 they’re just ready for closure.

A few “no media allowed” signs can also be found taped to windows all because the city was thrust into a new reality where its name is synonymous with tragedy to the rest of the country. It’s also one that for at least the next month, downtown businesses fear will affect their livelihoods – because regular customers don’t want to deal with the swarm of reporters either.

The warnings haven’t lessened the impact of our collective presence here, though. Someone who works on Main Street said: “If this is just day one of the trial, imagine what day 21 will bring.”

So, as people caught in the periphery wish to step out of the spotlight and move on, two families long even more for justice that’s seven years overdue.

13-year-old Abby is remembered as a young artist, athlete and saxophone player who loved spending time in nature and with animals.

Her 14-year-old best friend, Libby, is remembered for her keen sense of humor, adventurous and sporty spirit – and for also being a saxophone player, like Abby.

The pair would have been college-aged today. Instead, they leave behind an indelible mark on the history of a place where they started to grow up — but didn’t get to finish.

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