The Dark Past of Palmyra Atoll and the 1974 Murder Case

Positioned between Hawaii and American Samoa and resembling an untouched paradise from the outside, Palmyra Atoll is remembered throughout its history for military events, treasure rumors, and a 1974 murder case in which the FBI intervened.

Located between Hawaii and American Samoa, Palmyra Atoll resembles an untouched vacation paradise at first glance. Accounts remaining from the World War II era and a murder that took place in 1974 caused the island's bad reputation to spread. It was claimed that some soldiers stationed on the island experienced unexplained fear, paranoia, and restlessness, and that violent incidents and suicides occurred among the soldiers; however, there is no scientific evidence showing that these events stemmed from supernatural causes.

One of the oldest rumors in Palmyra's past dates back to 1816. According to the rumor, a Spanish ship carrying looted Inca treasure reached the region and gold and valuables were hidden on the island, but no concrete findings confirming the existence of the treasure have been encountered.

The most notable event in the island's dark past occurred in 1974. American couple Malcolm "Mac" Graham and his wife Eleanor "Muff" Graham arrived at Palmyra Atoll on their yacht and encountered Buck Walker and Stephanie Stearns there. After a while, no news could be obtained from the Graham couple, while Walker and Stearns returned to Hawaii with the couple's yacht. Years later, human remains belonging to Eleanor Graham emerged from a chest found on the island's shore. As a result of the investigation, Buck Walker was found guilty of the murder of Eleanor Graham; however, Malcolm Graham's body was never reached. The investigation, which also involved the FBI, led to the international recognition of Palmyra Atoll, and the events were adapted into a book and a television movie.

Known for the events in its past, Palmyra Atoll is today one of the protected wildlife areas affiliated with the US and has no permanent settlement.