News
Administrators interviewed by The Dartmouth yesterday expressed feelings of relief and shock on hearing that two high school students are being pursued for the slayings of Half and Susanne Zantop.
"It made me feel like 'Oh, wow, they're getting someplace,'" said Dean of Residential Life Martin Redman after hearing the announcement early Saturday morning that officials had issued arrest warrants for James Parker, 16, and Robert Tulloch, 17.
"It's a great relief," commented Dean of the Faculty Edward Berger of the announcement.
Though authorities have not yet released additional information regarding Parker and Tulloch's implication in the murders, administrators noted they felt the warrants issued for the two boys constitute an essential solution to the double homicide.
"Apparently, the crime has been solved," Berger said.
"[I feel] relief that it's not a mystery anymore," said a faculty member who wished to remain anonymous.
Faculty members contacted by The Dartmouth last night said they were asked by the College's Office of General Counsel to refrain from speaking to the press.
Emotional closure may be more easily attained by the general community thanks to the announcement that authorities have identifiable suspects, noted Redman.
"For those who lost good friends or parents, it will never be closed," he acknowledged.
Administrators noted they were shocked by the age of the suspects.
"It's a little disquieting, I mean, these kids were in high school two weeks ago," Redman said.
"I feel sorry for the families -- obviously for the Zantop family -- but it's also got to be awfully difficult for the families of these two young men," Redman added.
Both Berger and Redman complimented the officials involved in the investigation of the murders.
"I think the police and the state authorities did a terrific job," Berger said.
