"The profile itself has never been made public, but the Salt Lake Tribune talked to a clinical psychologist who works with sex offenders at the Utah State Prison. And here, but I want you to read me what he has to say about Rosie's killer. So this is from Dr. Steve Kramer, and he says this person is, quote, 'a very impulsive person, one who does the first thing that comes into his head without thinking of the consequences. He can't even initiate a conversation. It's probably a withdrawn, loner type person,' end quote." — Britt
"The fact that there is no report to even like reference and see what did or did not happen in 95 is like astonishing to me." — Britt
"And unfortunately, it really wasn't enough because remember how I told you a lot of the evidence was compromised because of the canal water. Oh, God. Yeah. Yeah. So they're ecstatic to get this DNA. But unfortunately, even what they're able to recover, once they're able to process it, it doesn't meet the standards to be entered into the codeus database." — Britt
The episode recounts the harrowing story of six-year-old Rosie Tapia, who vanished from her bedroom in Salt Lake City, Utah, on August 12, 1995. Her mother discovered her missing, with the bedroom window found ajar and the screen removed, suggesting a potential abduction. Initial investigations explored various possibilities, including an accidental drowning in a nearby canal, where Rosie's body was later found. Forensic evidence, including signs of blunt force trauma and sexual assault, indicated foul play, shifting the focus firmly towards a homicide investigation.
Throughout the years, the case has been marked by numerous challenges, including seemingly missed opportunities, a lack of clear leads, and the slow advancement of forensic capabilities. Several persons of interest were identified and investigated, including a man known to frequent the local playground, and a suspect from North Carolina with a history of similar crimes. Despite technological advancements and re-examinations of evidence, including DNA recovered from beneath Rosie's fingernails, the case remains officially unsolved.
The narrative highlights the frustration and pain experienced by Rosie's family, particularly her mother and sister, who have actively sought updates and justice. The episode points to issues within the investigation, such as a potential lack of detailed record-keeping and communication breakdowns between law enforcement agencies. The story concludes with the family's continued hope for resolution, the establishment of a non-profit organization to aid in cold case investigations, and the enduring impact of Rosie's tragic death.