Silkwood, Karen (1946–1974)

KAREN SILKWOOD was killed in a car accident on November 13, 1974, while on her way to meet with officials to expose the physical negligence occurring at the Kerr-McGee's plutonium fuels production plant in Crescent, Oklahoma, where she worked as a chemical technician. The attempt to destroy her reputation and the subsequent cover-ups are worthy of the best mystery thrillers. Indeed, a Hollywood movie was made of her life story. Several crimes were committed in the Silkwood case: she was purposely exposed to radiation, harassed, then allegedly murdered.

Silkwood was born in Longview, Texas, the daughter of William and Merle Silkwood. She was a straight-A student throughout school and particularly enjoyed chemistry. She studied medical technology at Lamar College in Beaumont, Texas. In 1972, Silkwood was ...