Man linked to US investigation lived in Timaru under stolen identity
Wednesday 23 September 2026 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated In this story FBI
Raymond Horsch, who is being investigated by the FBI regarding a Philadelphia property linked to the disappearance of at least seven women, lived near Timaru during the 1980s. Reports indicate he used a stolen identity while residing in South Canterbury.
Key facts
6 facts
- Raymond Horsch lived in Timaru in the 1980s
- Horsch used the name Dr Stanley Stokowski while in New Zealand
- Horsch helped establish an ethanol plant in South Canterbury
- Seven women have been linked to the Philadelphia property
- Eugene Horsch was arrested in June 2026
- Raymond Horsch died in 2025 at age 82
The full story
1 min read · 3 outlets
An FBI investigation into a Philadelphia property described as a “house of horrors” has linked Raymond Horsch to the disappearance of at least seven women. Investigators believe five of these women may no longer be alive. The investigation was triggered in June 2026 after Horsch's son, Eugene Horsch, was arrested with weapons, drugs, and a fake police badge.
Horsch, who died in 2025 aged 82, previously lived in New Zealand during the 1980s using the stolen identity of an American chemist named Dr Stanley Stokowski. He moved to the country in 1981 to evade the repercussions of drug convictions. While living in Timaru, he used his chemistry skills to help establish an ethanol fuel plant.
In 1984, Horsch was caught attempting to re-enter New Zealand with five fake passports. He subsequently stole a passport from a house in Temuka and fled to the United States. During his time in the US, Horsch worked as an erotic photographer and pornographic filmmaker.
A search of the Philadelphia property uncovered bank cards belonging to Blair Tonzelli, who was last seen at the residence. Other items found included five urns with unidentified ashes, chemical vats, and footage that appeared to show women unconscious or dead. Deputy Police Commissioner Frank Vanore stated, “Some of this is play-acting. Some of it we believe could be real, but we're not there yet”.
Compiled from reports by NZ Herald, Stuff and The Press.