Prime Suspect In 1981 Slaying Of Adam Walsh Dies In Prison

The prime suspect in the kidnap and murder of a 6-year-old Adam Walsh - the crime that helped lead to the creation of “America’s Most Wanted” - has died in prison.

Ottis Elwood Toole, who was serving a 20-year term for arson, died Sept. 15 at a medical facility after being diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver. No one claimed his body.

Toole was believed by police to be the killer of Adam Walsh, whose 1981 disappearance outside a mall set off a nationwide manhunt.

Police said Toole confessed to killing the boy, whose severed head was found two weeks afterward, but he recanted and was never charged.

Adam’s murder was reported nationwide and generated tremendous attention on how law enforcement agencies treat missing children cases.

His father, John Walsh, headed up the effort and eventually created the TV show, “America’s Most Wanted,” which appeals for public help in catching dangerous criminals.

The Fox network announced last May it was canceling the show, but Fox said Tuesday it had changed its mind and was ordering new episodes. John Walsh will continue as the host.