The dark underbelly of San Jose’s educational history just got cracked wide open, and trust us, it’s a story that’ll send shivers down your spine.

A Tragic Murder Unveiled

Back in 1978, when disco was king and bell-bottoms were all the rage, a horrific crime rocked Branham High School: beloved teacher Diane Peterson was brutally stabbed, her life cut short in a senseless act of violence. Nearly 47 years later, justice has finally caught up with the suspected killer.

The Disturbing Details

Harry “Nicky” Nickerson, a 16-year-old student at the time, became the prime suspect in Peterson’s murder. The most bone-chilling detail? He carried a knife inscribed with the haunting words “Teacher Dear” - a twisted calling card that would make even true crime podcasters squirm.

A Cold Case Finally Solved

District Attorney Jeff Rosen didn’t mince words, stating that Peterson “would have been a senior citizen today if she had not crossed paths with this violent teenager”. While Nickerson died by suicide in 1993, the case remained an open wound for Peterson’s family and the San Jose community.

The breakthrough came when a family member came forward, revealing Nickerson’s immediate confession after the murder. Investigators spent decades piecing together this tragic puzzle, proving that some mysteries refuse to stay buried.