Crime Junkie
Crime Junkie
"You would have a five times greater chance of winning the Virginia lottery than finding these crimes are not related." — Expert on case linkage analysis.
"The FBI's theory is that the two went to the parkway to drink and make out... Then they think that someone used the ruse of authority to get them to try and give them their license or registration or whatever, and that they were marched off the scene somewhere else to be killed." — Explanation of the FBI's theory for Keith and Sandy's disappearance.
"Be weird. Be rude girl. Right. 100%. Always. Great for her to get out there." — Advice for listeners on how to react if they feel uncomfortable during a traffic stop.
This episode continues the investigation into the Colonial Parkway murders, focusing on the disappearance of Keith Call and Cassandra "Sandy" Haley in April 1988. After attending a party, they never returned home. Their abandoned car was discovered on the parkway, with inconsistencies in its initial discovery by park rangers and later by law enforcement, leading to contamination of the crime scene. The FBI became involved due to similarities with the earlier Kathleen Thomas and Becky Dowski case, but faced resistance from local rangers, raising suspicions about potential cover-ups or jurisdictional disputes. Despite extensive searches, including the use of tracking dogs and divers, Keith and Sandy were never found. The FBI's leading theory suggests they were lured from their vehicle under the pretense of an authority figure, taken elsewhere, and murdered.
The narrative then shifts to the Labor Day weekend disappearance of Anna Marie Phelps and Daniel Lauer in September 1989. Their car was found abandoned near a rest stop, again with inconsistencies suggesting it may have been staged. While initially dismissed by state police as unrelated due to distance, the discovery of their decomposed bodies weeks later, buried near a logging road and covered by an electric blanket, brought renewed attention. Despite extensive efforts, including the use of genealogical testing, these cases remain unsolved, leaving the families without closure.
The episode concludes by examining the statistical unlikelihood of these quadruple double homicides occurring independently within a short span and close proximity, leading many to believe they are connected. The discussion touches upon potential suspect profiles, including impersonators of law enforcement and individuals known to the victims. The evolving nature of the perpetrator's methods, from violent crime scenes to the complete disappearance of victims, is highlighted as a key concern for investigators. The ongoing efforts of the victims' families to keep these cases in the public eye are emphasized, with recommendations for further information.