The year is 1987.
There's been a murder at Gladstone High School. The star athlete has been killed and there are a lot of people with a motive.
That's the premise of the upcoming fundraiser for Crime Stoppers of Simcoe-Dufferin-Muskoka.
Crimp and tease your hair, dig out that old prom dress or tuxedo and use your sleuthing skills to collar the murderous villain.
Creative director of Barrie's Shot in the Dark Murder Mysteries, Leigh Clements, says the crime scenario seemed like the perfect fit.
"We'll have members of the public as well as some OPP officers attending so the detectives better bring their 'A' game to solve this. I expect some people will come in full costume. Some people have already said they still have their prom dresses but its not necessary to dress up. There are no lines to memorize or anything like that. Basically, there is a list of suspects and it's the job of everyone at the party to question them, find clues and solve the mystery. We are adding in a balloon arch for prom pictures, a costume and best 80s hair contest, food and a dance."
Crime Stoppers receives no grants and operates solely on public donation.
"This is the biggest fundraiser for the group so our goal is to raise enough money to keep it going. It is so important to the community. I don't think people understand the great impact it has on crime solving because, of course, all tips are anonymous," says Clements.
According to stats so far in 2018 (up to September), there have been 1,787 anonymous tips phoned in which led to 205 arrests, 426 charges laid, $73,110 worth of property recovered and $115,597 worth of drugs seized.
It's set for Friday, Nov. 9 at the Royal Canadian Legion at 416 St.Vincent St., Barrie.
Tickets are $60 a person available here or by calling 705-726-2237.
