Kimberly Sue Morse

Case Information:

Kimberly Sue Morse, often affectionately called “Kimmie,” was a 32-year-old native of York, Maine living in North Providenc, Rhode Island, Rhode Island, when she vanished. Born in 1967 as the youngest of four children, Kimberly was described as a vibrant, high-energy “pied piper” who was beloved by her family and friends alike.

On January 19, 2000, her life was brutally taken inside her basement unit at the Brick Manor Condominiums on Mineral Spring Avenue. At the time, she was just one month away from graduating from aesthetician school and had plans to relocate to Florida for a fresh start.

Case Details:

Authorities discovered Kimberly’s body after a smoke alarm alerted neighbors to a fire in her apartment at approximately 5:00 p.m. She had been attacked in her kitchen immediately upon returning from a late shift at work, suffering a fatal wound to her throat.

The killer moved her to the bathroom, where her body was placed in the tub and set on fire in an attempt to destroy evidence. Investigators found her keys and gloves on the counter, suggesting she was ambushed before she could even settle in for the night.

Timeline of Events:

Kimberly was last seen leaving her workplace, the Foxy Lady, at approximately 1:45 a.m. on January 18, 2000. She drove her black Mazda Miata back to her North Providence apartment, where the fatal attack occurred shortly after her arrival.

A neighbor reported hearing a thumping noise and footsteps during the night, but no screams were heard, indicating the speed of the attack. There was a notable 15-hour gap between her death and the discovery of the fire, leading to questions about the killer’s movements.

Investigation:

The North Providence Police Department has investigated the homicide for over two decades, pursuing leads that spanned from Rhode Island to Michigan. Because there was no sign of forced entry, detectives believe Kimberly likely knew her attacker or that they had access to a key.

In 2019, Kimberly’s case was featured as the 7 of Clubs in a deck of cold case playing cards distributed by the Pawtucket Police to state prisons. Law enforcement has confirmed they possess a DNA profile of the suspect and are waiting for a match to bring the killer to justice.

Community Response:

The York community and her friends in Rhode Island have remained dedicated to keeping Kimberly’s memory alive. A reward of $20,000 was previously offered by her family and the Carole Sund-Carrington Foundation for information leading to an arrest.

Loved ones describe Kimberly as “the sun,” a person who radiated warmth and kindness to everyone she met. Her story has been featured on numerous true crime platforms to ensure that her case does not fade from the public consciousness.

Family Statements:

Kimberly’s sisters, Sandy and Cathy, have tirelessly advocated for her, describing her as a brave adventurer who lived life to the fullest. They expressed relief that their father, who was Kimberly’s fierce protector, passed away shortly before the murder and was spared this tragedy.

The family continues to plead for anyone with information—even the smallest detail from that night in January 2000—to come forward. They believe that someone in the North Providence or York area holds the final piece of the puzzle needed for closure.

Physical Appearance:

Kimberly was a fit, 32-year-old woman with blonde hair, striking blue eyes, and an athletic build maintained through her love of bodybuilding and aerobics. She stood approximately 5’9″ tall and was often described as having a “bronzed” look from her love of the summer sun.

She was known for her eclectic sense of style, often making her own clothes and shopping at The Christmas Tree Shops. Her distinctive appearance and vibrant personality made her a well-known figure in every community she joined.

Current Status:

As of April 20, 2026, the murder of Kimberly Sue Morse remains an active cold case investigation with the Rhode Island State Police. While over 26 years have passed, the existence of forensic evidence provides a constant hope for a breakthrough.

The case is reviewed periodically by the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office to see if new technology can be applied. Kimberly is buried at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Eliot, Maine where her family still visits to honor her memory.

Contact Information:

If you have any information regarding the murder of Kimberly Sue Morse, please contact the North Providence Police Department at 401-233-1430. You may also provide anonymous tips through the Rhode Island Crime Stoppers at 1-800-494-TIPS.

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