Federal Authorities Reopen Investigation into Ellen Greenberg’s 2011 Death as Ex-Fiancé Spotted in New York

17 January 2026 U.S. News

NEW YORK, N.Y. — Federal prosecutors have reopened the investigation into the controversial 2011 death of Ellen Greenberg, a Philadelphia teacher who was found with 23 stab wounds, reigniting questions about the circumstances surrounding her demise. The renewed probe comes nearly 15 years after Greenberg’s death was initially ruled a suicide, a conclusion that has since faced significant criticism from legal experts and advocates.

Sam Goldberg, Greenberg’s former fiancé, was recently seen in New York City, where he reportedly declined to answer questions concerning the federal inquiry. Goldberg, 43, was spotted leaving his Manhattan apartment, dressed casually in a black jacket and gray sweatpants. The apartment, valued at $1.88 million, is shared with his wife and two children. Despite the media attention, Goldberg remained tight-lipped about the investigation, which has been reopened by federal authorities seeking to reexamine evidence and circumstances that many have long disputed.

Greenberg’s death has been a subject of public fascination and legal debate for over a decade. Initially ruled a suicide by local authorities, the case drew widespread skepticism due to the nature of the wounds and inconsistencies in the investigation. The teacher was found with 23 stab wounds, a detail that raised questions about whether the death could have been self-inflicted or if foul play was involved. The case has since been revisited multiple times, with advocates and some legal experts calling for a more thorough examination of forensic evidence and investigative procedures.

The reopening of the investigation falls under the jurisdiction of federal prosecutors, who often take on cases where there are concerns about potential miscarriages of justice. This move signals a significant development in a case that has remained unresolved in the public eye. Federal involvement may bring new resources and forensic technologies to bear, potentially shedding light on unanswered questions.

Greenberg’s story has been covered extensively by major news outlets, highlighting the ongoing challenges in resolving complex death investigations. The U.S. Department of Justice often steps in when local investigations face scrutiny or when new evidence emerges that warrants federal review. Meanwhile, the Federal Bureau of Investigation has historically played a key role in cases involving suspicious deaths, providing forensic support and investigative expertise.

Public interest in the case remains high, as it touches on broader issues of investigative integrity and the pursuit of justice. The reopening of the probe may also prompt renewed media attention and public discourse about how such cases are handled. The American Civil Liberties Union and other advocacy groups have long called for transparency and accountability in investigations involving potential wrongful rulings.

As the federal inquiry proceeds, authorities have not released detailed information about what new evidence or leads prompted the reopening. However, the move underscores the ongoing complexities in determining the truth behind Greenberg’s death. The case serves as a reminder of the challenges law enforcement faces in balancing initial findings with evolving forensic science and public scrutiny.

For now, Goldberg’s silence adds to the mystery surrounding the case, as federal agents continue their work to uncover answers. The renewed investigation may bring closure to a case that has haunted the Philadelphia community and beyond for years.

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Written By
Priya Desai covers technology, platforms and data privacy, with a focus on how AI, social media and digital policy are reshaping work, speech and daily life.
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