Former FBI agent Geoffrey Kelly, who investigated the 1990 Gardner Museum art heist for 22 years, dismisses various theories in his new book "Thirteen Perfect Fugitives." The theft, valued at an estimated $500 million, remains the largest art heist in U.S. history. Thirteen masterpieces including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer were stolen when thieves disguised as police officers tied up guards.

Kelly investigated multiple theories including the Corsican mob, the IRA, and even the possibility that the paintings were hidden within the museum itself. His investigation revealed that Boston mobster Carmello Merlino likely orchestrated the crime. Evidence pointed to Leonard DiMuzio and George Reissfelder as the perpetrators who resembled police sketches of the thieves.

During searches, the FBI found a handwritten list of the stolen artworks at Bobby Gentile's home, with individual reward values penciled beside each item. Gentile refused to cooperate with investigators. Kelly concludes the art remains hidden, with Merlino once claiming to know someone who possessed the paintings but failing to produce them despite offers of immunity.