Case File: Morrissey, Shane D.
NYPD / Homicide Division — Court Outcome Report
Date: February 27, 2002
Case No.: 01-1131-NY
Classification: Multiple Homicide — Conviction
Summary:
Subject identified as Shane “Dio” Morrissey (DOB 11/03/1981) was arrested on October 31, 2001, following a police search at the
decommissioned Metropolitan Avenue subway corridor. Morrissey was found in possession of multiple Polaroid photographs,
each depicting a recent homicide victim within the 9th Street vicinity. Victims were identified as Angela Ruiz (29), Henry Dorsey (41),
and Leah Tran (33).
Scene investigators recovered a camera, art supplies, and a blood-stained sketchbook containing charcoal portraits of the deceased. Forensic analysis confirmed the victims’ blood on Morrissey’s hands and clothing. Handwritten notes throughout the sketchbook referenced “the perfect light” and “capturing them forever.”
During interrogation, Morrissey appeared calm and detached, repeatedly claiming, “They asked me to take their picture.” When questioned about motive, he referred to the killings as “a study” and expressed confusion over their deaths.
Following psychiatric evaluation at Bellevue Hospital, Morrissey was deemed competent to stand trial. On February 22, 2002, he was convicted on three counts of first-degree murder and sentenced to three consecutive life terms without the possibility of parole. He is currently housed at Clinton Correctional Facility, Dannemora, NY.
According to staff reports, Morrissey maintains a withdrawn demeanor, spending most of his time drawing. When questioned about his art, he states only: “They still pose for me.”
Evidence Inventory
- Polaroid SX-70 camera, serial no. 745X92 — operational.
- Sketchbook, 68 pages, mixed media — blood traces confirmed.
- Photographs (12) — signed “D.M.” on reverse.
- Personal effects: cigarettes, lighter, patchouli oil, train token dated 1999.
Final Remarks
The Metropolitan corridor where Morrissey was discovered remains sealed under court order. Transit maintenance staff report intermittent lighting malfunctions near the site, with several technicians describing the sound of camera shutters during overnight shifts.