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The Indy-Car community cried for justice. They knew who was guilty; they just couldn’t prove it.
Cynthia Albrecht, the executive chef of the Penske-Marlboro racing team and darling of the IndyCar circuit, went missing on October 25, 1992—the night before her divorce from Michael Albrecht became final. Drivers and racing crews from across the country converged on “The Brickyard,” site of the Indianapolis 500, to help search for her.
“Award-Winning Finalist in the True Crime category of the 2019 Best Book Awards sponsored by American Book Fest”
As the head mechanic for the Dick Simon racing team, known as “Crabby” across the race circuit, Michael had a reputation for bullying and abuse. He’d immediately become a suspect in Cynthia’s disappearance. But with a strong alibi, there was nothing authorities could do when he decided to take a vacation to Florida and skip a scheduled polygraph test and the search for his estranged wife.
Nor could law enforcement charge him when Cynthia’s body was found a few weeks later in northern Indiana—minus her head. The case went cold for six years until a newly elected prosecutor allowed his deputies to charge Michael Albrecht with murder. But would they be able to prove his guilt?
This true crime legal thriller written by one of the prosecutors, Larry Sells, and journalist Margie Porter, runs at full throttle and will leave you on the edge of your seat right up to the checkered flag at final verdict.
“Cindy was a fantastic person and an amazing chef that was a part of our Penske team. She always had a smile and an encouraging word. She was a great, fun person to be around. Still cannot believe she was taken in such a tragic way.” -Al Unser Jr.
“Cindy was the kindest soul. She didn’t care if you were a driver’s wife or a race fan, she showed love and respect to everyone. Her joy was infectious.” -Shelley Unser
“I’ll always remember Cindy like an older sister, and also to include the other girls working alongside her. One time I’ll never forget is having Cindy, Sandi and Becca at our home in Reading, PA for dinner, a few days before the Nazareth Race. Some relaxation, a few drinks, some goofing around, and we have a great photo of it. I also remember Cindy and the girls presenting me with a birthday cake, must have been my 40th birthday! Very fond memories that make me smile.” -Tim Lombardi, Penske Team Coordinator (retired)
Mr. Sells, Enjoyed the book. Just wanted you to forward a message to the illustrator or publisher, not really sure who or how to find the appropriate contact. But I’d like to say I was disappointed with the photo used on the cover of ” Race To Justice”. Cynthia was a pretty woman in her early thirties with a great smile. That choice of photo does not do her justice. She looks like she is in her sixties. Not young & vibrant. But old & washed out. Thanks. Laura Lister . lauralisterrn@hotmail.com
Laura,
Glad you enjoyed the book. Sorry you did not like the cover. There were no other photos of Cindy in her Marlboro jacket that were suitable. Other pictures of Cindy in the book captured her beautiful, vibrant personality. I never met her, but through the case she became part of my life, as have her close friends Becca Miller and Sandi Fink! “Race to Justice” involved my favorite trial.
I encourage you to read “Beast of New Castle,” which was just recently published. The “Beast” was truly the most evil man I have ever prosecuted.
My co-author, Margie Porter, and I are currently working on another book involving multiple killers I prosecuted.
Thanks again for your comment.
Take care,
Larry Sells