Burke Ramsey Abstains from Documentary Participation

In the highly anticipated Netflix docuseries, ‘Cold Case: Who Killed JonBenét Ramsey,’ one notable figure is absent: Burke Ramsey, the older brother of the late JonBenét. The series explores the infamous unsolved murder of JonBenét, who was found dead in her Boulder, Colorado home on December 26, 1996. Burke Ramsey’s decision to abstain from participation stems from his experiences with media coverage and public scrutiny over the years.

According to a closing card presented at the end of the third episode, ‘Citing his treatment by the media and online websleuths, Burke Ramsey declined our request for an interview.’ Director Joe Berlinger confirmed this to TODAY.com, emphasizing that Burke is currently ‘doing fine,’ despite overwhelming public interest in his life and experiences surrounding the case.

Berlinger stated, ‘We tried to gain access through our relationship with John Ramsey and (his) son, John Andrew Ramsey.’ Notably, both John Ramsey and his son participated in the documentary, while Burke chose not to engage.

“But we didn’t want to pressure Burke; he just didn’t want to talk to us, and we respected that,” Berlinger noted.

Burke Ramsey Cleared of Suspicion

In 2008, the Boulder District Attorney’s Office confirmed that Burke Ramsey, along with his parents John and Patsy Ramsey, were cleared of involvement in JonBenét’s murder. DNA evidence collected during the investigation indicated that an unknown male had interacted with the crime scene.

Mary Lacy, then-Boulder County District Attorney, acknowledged in a letter to John Ramsey, ‘The match of male DNA on two separate items of clothing worn by the victim at the time of the murder makes it clear to us that an unknown male handled these items.’ This statement served to allay public fears that the Ramsey family was involved in JonBenét’s tragic death.

Burke reminisced on this confirmation during an interview shortly thereafter, expressing relief: ‘I think the people that are in charge of the investigation are focused on that, and that gives me a lot of comfort.’

Public Interest and Past Appearances

Over the years, Burke Ramsey has occasionally resurfaced in public discussions about the case. He made a notable appearance on ‘Dr. Phil’ in 2016, his first public interview since the events unfolded in 1996. During that segment, he expressed his desire to honor his sister’s memory: ‘I want to honor her memory by doing this interview.’ His insights into the rumors surrounding his family’s involvement offered a rare glimpse of his feelings and experiences.

However, a separate incident in 2016 saw Burke Ramsey suing CBS after they aired a special suggesting he had a role in his sister’s death. The lawsuit accused CBS of intentionally misleading the public and damaging his reputation.

Where is Burke Ramsey Now?

Today, at 37 years old, Burke Ramsey resides in Michigan and works in technology management. Despite the years that have passed since his sister’s tragic death, Burke’s story continues to evoke interest and compassion.