Unsolved Wyoming: Cold Cases & Haunted Places: Recent Episodes

Renee Nelson

This podcast covers unsolved cases and tells the stories of haunted places of Wyoming. Families share insights of their loved ones, along with what they know about the day everything changed. And, we also explore some of the unexplainable mysteries hidden in the great Wyoming landscapes. Join us every other week for a full episode and weekly for case updates from around the state. Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/renee-m-nelson/support

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Missing spooky season? Join me for Part II of Jill Pope's Haunted episode.

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Jill Pope Books

Unsolved Wyoming Website

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Only 19 years old, Rocky Najera, disappeared in Cheyenne, Wyoming in 1985. This is the oldest cold case on Unsolved Wyoming as of right now. Listen in on the insightful interview I have with Michelle, Rocky's younger sister, as she shares the details of her brother growing up and the issues surrounding her brother's disappearance.

Show notes:

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Missing People of WyomingArm Bone Recovered in Nebraska Not Remains of Missing Moorcroft Man

Unsolved Wyoming Website

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Closure--what does it really mean? It's a complicated word in the world of true crime. It's with a mixed bag that I present the first "Found" episode of Unsolved Wyoming. This is the resolution of Rocky Najera. I chat with both his sister, and the genealogist that helped bring Rocky's mystery to light. Be sure to stay tuned for the DCI updates sponsored by Missing People of Wyoming.

Show Notes:Nearly 40 Years After Wyoming Man Went Missing, Family Copes With Proof Of His Death

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Riverton Press Release--Yellowrobe

Unsolved Wyoming Website

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Check out the latest updates from Wyoming!

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook GroupCasper woman’s 1975 homicide in Colorado solved through DNA testingNearly 40 After Wyoming Man Went Missing, Family Copes With Proof Of His DeathNatrona County resident found dead after going missing in Converse County

Unsolved Wyoming Website

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Check out the latest DCI updates and my chat with Desiree Tinoco discussing the recovery of Chris Mauk, the updates on Katie Ferguson, and the bizarre turn of events with Azia Saldana.

Show Notes:

Missing Torrington Woman Places Mysterious Call Home, Causing More Concern from Police and FamilyBody Found in Laramie Sunday Likely That of Christopher Mauk, Father SaysEx-Boyfriend Of Missing Cody Woman Arrested In Wyoming

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook Group

Unsolved Wyoming Web Page

Missing People of Wyoming PayPal--Donate here

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Happy Friday the 13th--here is the first spooky episode with author, Jill Pope. She's written four books that can found in the link below. Be sure to stay tuned for the DCI updates sponsored by Missing People of Wyoming.

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⁠Jill Pope books⁠

⁠Missing People of Wyoming⁠

⁠Unsolved Wyoming Website

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Check out the latest DCI updates sponsored by Missing People of Wyoming.

Show Notes:

Missing People of Wyoming

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Unsolved Wyoming Website

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Check out the latest DCI updates, get the newest update for the missing hiker, Steve Keller, and a spoooky event plug--Midnight West Fest.

Show Notes:

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Missing People of WyomingSearch For Hiker Missing In Wyoming’s Wind River Mountains Suspended

Midnight West Fest

Unsolved Wyoming

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Check out the latest updates from the state!

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Sublette County Press Release--Missing Hiker

Unsolved Wyoming Website

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Check out the latest DCI updates.

Show Notes: Dogs, Drones And Deputies To Make Final Search For Missing Worland Woman

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Unsolved Wyoming

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Check out the latest DCI updates--and only 4 cases were added. One was removed.

Show Notes:

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Unsolved Wyoming

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Check out the DCI updates and Cheyenne Frontier Days safety tips.

Show Notes:

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook Group

Missing People of Wyoming Paypal

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Check out the latest in DCI updates with Desiree Tinoco. Also, be sure to with Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group happy 4th birthday!

Show Notes:

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Missing People of Wyoming's Venmo: @MissingPeopleOfWyoming

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Kimberly Kay Novak was no angel, but when you listen to her sister, Becky, talk about her, you can hear the love and longing for the woman who made her wedding a memorable event. Even though Kim had a free-spirit and did her own thing on her own terms, she always touched base with family--especially on Father's Day. So when those special occasion calls stopped coming, Becky said they knew something was wrong. In this incredible interview I also have audio recording of Becky and Marissa, a medium. And of course, I have DCI updates with Desiree Tinoco.

Show Notes:

Kimberly Kay Novak Flyer

Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

DCI Long-time Friend Seeks Public’s Help in Locating Cheyenne Woman

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Check out the latest DCI Updates with Desiree Tinoco!

Show Notes:

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Missing Hiker Located

Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

In the Field: Be 307 Aware

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Check out the latest DCI updates.

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Unsolved Wyoming website

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Thank you so much for tuning in over the last year! Be sure to check out the new logo and Unsolved Wyoming website. I also have the updates from DCI.

Show Notes:

Unsolved Wyoming Website

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Missing People of Wyoming

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Check out the latest DCI updates!

Show Notes:

Wyoming Missing and Murdered Indigenous Task Force Meeting

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook Group

Human Remains Press Release

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John Daily Hammond, also known as "John-John" disappeared into the night November 6, 2021. This is his story told by his sister Georgeanne. Not only does his family miss him, but so does the community of Thermopolis. John frequented the library and the senior center. He could be seen reading while walking or helping around the community. I also have updates with Desiree so be sure to stay tuned.

Show Notes:

John Daily Hammond Flyer

Sister Not Giving Up Hope Of Finding Missing Thermopolis Man

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Missing and Murdered Indigenous Task for Meeting

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Check out the latest updates from DCI.

Show Notes:

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook Group

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An incredible story-teller and bonafide crime junkie, journalist Jennifer Kocher, is the perfect combination of sunshine and grit. I've worked with Jen now for the last year. I credit her to strapping me the driver seat of this podcast. Without her, I don't know if I would be recording this now, because when she got word some English teacher in Cheyenne was wanting to start a podcast, she contacted me to write the first piece of media on Unsolved Wyoming, and the rest is history. I've been working with Jen ever since. We collaborate and her work is always a piece of source material for the cases I report. But, like any good writer, she doesn't have a straight path--this is her story and take on the unsolved. Be sure to stay tuned because we do have DCI updates with Desiree Tinoco.

Show Notes:

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Jennifer Kocher

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Check out the latest from DCI. Also, I have the latest on Nathan Hightman's plea change and a cool Laramie County Community College Event you should come to.

Show Notes:

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Missing People of Wyoming

THE SEARCH FOR IRENE: Fiancé of Missing Kenyan Pleads Guilty to Felony, Financial Crimes

Elizabeth Smart

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Check out the latest updates from DCI with Desiree Tinoco. I also have an update on Irene Gakwa's case.

Show Notes:

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook GroupTHE SEARCH FOR IRENE: Fiancé of Missing Kenyan to Change Plea for Alleged Felony Financial Crimes

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Check out the latest updates from DCI with Desiree Tinoco.

Show Notes:

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook Group page 

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I interview the sister of Christopher Dale Mauk, a man missing since July of 2022. I also have DCI updates as well, so be sure to stay tuned. 

Warning: the sound quality of my voice in the interview is not up to snuff--I am going to send it out to get cleaned up, but in the meantime...you've been warned.

Show Notes:

Girlfriend of Missing Laramie Man Asks Public for Help

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group 

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Here are the updates from DCI with Desiree Tinoco and details on the new Missing Persons Alert Systems bill that has been signed as of 2/21/2023.

Show Notes:

Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group 

HB0018 - Missing person alert systems

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Folks, as promised I have author Ron Franscell back on the pod to talk about his latest book Deaf Row, a crime fiction. I know--but this is a true crime podcast? Don't worry, Ron and I chat everything from the book itself, to Ron's writing, to how true crime influences art/entertainment. And as always, I have a short update from Desiree Tinoco. 

Show Notes:

Ron Franscell Website

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Missing People of Wyoming

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Missed by many, the big-hearted Kyle Jay Ellis has disappeared without a trace. I interview his mother, Heather, for this episode. She describes Kyle's generous spirit and adventurous nature that started as small child, and how as an adult his quest for God led him on religious pilgrimages, which is what he was doing when he disappeared in Greybull, Wyoming. I also have an interview with Captain David Janes from the Cheyenne Police Department, where he discusses some incredible initiatives the PD has launched to help better assist folks experiencing a mental health crisis episode. And, as always, I have an update from DCI. 

Show Notes:

Kyle Jay Ellis Bulletin 

Mother Of Missing Sheridan Man Still Hopeful After Four Years

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group 

Cheyenne Police Department

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And here is the weekly update from DCI with Desiree Tinoco.

Show Notes:

Missing People of Wyoming Facebook page

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We have updates from DCI with Desiree Tinoco. Thanks for listening in.

Show Notes:

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

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She was her sister's bowling partner, her granddaughter's primary caretaker, and she delivered the Casper Star, Davida Peterson, is the quintessential small town Wyoming woman that we all know. Join me as I talk to Linda Beauchamp about her sister, Davida, and the nightmare that unfolded the evening before mother's day. Be sure to stay tuned because I have DCI updates from Desiree Tinoco.  

Show Notes: Wyoming Has 5 Intriguing Old Missing Person & Homicide Cases 

DCI--Davida Peterson  

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook Group  

Prejudice and the issue of missing Native American women 

Robbery of Convenience Stores

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Catch up on the latest updates from DCI and some other interesting developments from around the state.

Show Notes:

THE SEARCH FOR IRENE: Trial for Fiancé Over Alleged Financial Crimes Likely to be Delayed

MMIW documentary to premiere at Sundance

Foot Found in Yellowstone Hot Pool, But Case Is Still MurkyDCI

Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group 

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Here is the latest missing person update as of 12/09/2022.

Show Notes:

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Casper Police Arrest One in New Day Spa Human Trafficking Investigation, Victim Rescued

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Here is the weekly update with Missing People of Wyoming's Desiree Tinoco. 

Show Notes:

Missing People of Wyoming Facebook Group

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Offender Watch App


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Here are the updates from Desiree Tinoco. We also talk about some missing person scams as well. 

Show Notes:

Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

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Today is a short update from the Missing People of Wyoming's Facebook group's Desiree Tinoco. 

Show Notes:

Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

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And here we are at the end of spooky season 2022. On the podcast for this second haunted episode I have a crossover with Cheyenne local, Dean Peterson, host of That Doesn't Happen Every Day, and author of The Burqa Cave. He shares with us two tales from his friend CJ Young along with recorded audio from his show. Have you ever heard of the Lady of Arlington? Be prepared to get full body chills. Oh, and the Rawlins' historic prison...let's just say that creepy doesn't begin to cover it. And as always, we the the update with Desiree Tinoco from DCI. Show Notes: That Doesn't Happen Every Day podcast The Burqa Cave book  DCI  Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group 


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Folks, here is this week's updates from DCI. 

Show Notes:

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group


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Hello spooky season! On this week's episode, I have legendary author Ron Franscell to tell us creepy crime tales. Then I have historian Rick Johnson, director of Fort Casper to tell us about the upcoming haunted tours. After, I have a founding member, Josh Saxon, of Midnight West Productions, to tell us about the upcoming Midnight West Fest at the Haunted Atlas theater in Cheyenne, Wyoming. And as always, I have the update from Missing People of Wyoming's Desiree Tinoco.

Show Notes:

Ron Franscell

Crime Buff's Guide to the Rockies

Missing Allen Documentary

Fort Casper Wyoming

Midnight West Productions

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Missing People of Wyoming

Irene Gakwa Update: THE SEARCH FOR IRENE: Multiple Agencies Return for Second Search of the Fiancé’s Home of Missing Gillette Resident by Jen Kocher


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Folks, here are the latest updates from DCI thanks to Desiree Tinoco. Be sure to tune in next week for some spooky tales. 

Missing People of Wyoming Facebook Group

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Do you remember the Terry Meador episode where I talked about Be 307 Aware? Well, this episode features Jim Mitchell and he tells us about how the program was started, how it works, and provides insight into what you should be ready for if you do get lost. I also have this week's DCI updates with Desiree Tinoco.  Be 307 Aware Facebook Page Be 307 Aware Flier  DCI  Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group 


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Folks. as always I have the DCI update with Desiree Tinoco from the Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group. I have stories in the works that I look forward to bringing you soon.

Show Notes:

OffenderWatch App

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group 

14 missing, endangered children rescued during operation 'Summer Knights'

Body found in Weston Hills area identified as missing man


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As always, here is the weekly DCI update with Desiree Tinoco. There seems to be more cases with the start of school. We also talk about a concerning trend "the back to school necklace" as well. 

Show Notes:

What is a 'Back-to-School Necklace'? All About This Disturbing Trend That Parents Need to Know About

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group 


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An avid hunter and excited grandfather, Terry Meador, set out into a coveted hunting area to scout deer for an upcoming hunting trip with his son and grandson. However, when Terry didn't show up to a friend's house to process an antelope, it was clear that something wasn't right. In this episode, I talk with BJ Meador, Terry's son, about his father, growing up, his dad's legacy in Rock Springs, and the events leading up to Terry's disappearance. I also talk with Sara DiRienzo, a fellow hunting enthusiast and public information officer with Wyoming Game and Fish. There is also a new initiative to help outdoor enthusiasts to make sure they make it home that I want to tell you about. And of course, I have a DCI update with Desiree Tinoco from Missing People of Wyoming's Facebook group, so be sure to stay tuned.

Show Notes:

Big Piney Man Continues Search for Missing Father

Missing People of Wyoming

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Wyoming Game and Fish

Be 307 Aware

Be 307 Aware Flier

Garmin Satellite Radio


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Folks, as many of you know, I am a full-time instructor at Laramie County Community College in Cheyenne, Wyoming. So, this week has been in high gear with getting ready to for the new semester. I have some great interviews set up for next week, but I only have an update episode for this week. I wanted to highlight some back to school tips, including to take the #ForMak pledge along with a few other small news stories. As always, I have the update with Missing People of Wyoming's Desiree Tinoco. 

Show Notes:

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group 

ForMak Facebook page

Tips for Online 


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Here is an update with Desiree Tinoco with DCI's most recent cases. I also share some tips from Grand Teton National Park for late summer recreating. 

Show Notes:

Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

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National Park Service


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This week, I interview Desiree Tinoco, a true inspiration and cornerstone when comes to advocating for missing people in Wyoming. You know her voice because she's featured weekly in the podcast, but I thought it was time for listeners to get to know more about her, her journey, and her amazing impact in Wyoming. As always we have an  update towards the end of the episode, so be sure to stay tuned. Show Notes: DCI Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group


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Folks, check out the latest update from DCI with Desiree Tinoco. I also have some safety tips for Cheyenne Frontier Days, but I know fair season is among us, too. Be sure to check them out. 

Show Notes:

Preventing Human Trafficking 

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MIssing People of Wyoming


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I've been watching and following the Find Irene Gakwa Facebook group since before I did my very first podcast episode. And as the story has unfolded, an incredible group has emerged to help coordinate the search efforts to locate Irene. In this week's episode I chat with Stacy Koester and Missy Bloxom, they are two friends of a larger cohort, who have come together with the sole focus of bringing Irene home. And as always, I have an update with Desiree Tinoco, so be sure to stay tuned.  Show Notes: Find Irene Facebook group DCI 


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Here are the latest missing cases here in Wyoming. I also have a short PSA at the end on fair safety.  


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A highly motivated mom, with a punk rock aesthetic, didn't quite fit in the quiet town of Torrington, Wyoming. So, when she was reported missing, the investigation into Renee Yeargain's whereabouts, was a little slow. 18 years later, and Renee's case is still unsolved. For Renee's story, I interview Jess Oakes, a dedicated acquaintance, Angelina Schimer, Renee's daughter, Agent Hansen, Head of DCI's Cold Case Unit, and an unnamed source, who knew Renee growing up. As always, I have a DCI update from the Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group.

Woman Won’t Give Up Seeking Justice in Torrington’s Only Unsolved Missing Person Case

Where is Renee Diane Yeargain--Facebook Page

We Help the Missing

Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

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Amanda Waldron: 307-797-0363

DCI: (307) 777-7181


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Happy birthday, America! As listeners go out to celebrate the land of the free and home of the brave, please be on the lookout for the folks listed on DCI's missing people's list. Thank you to Desiree Tinoco from the Missing People of Wyoming, Facebook group for providing updates. Also, if you are recreating in Grand Teton National Park, please be on the lookout for Cian McLaughlin or the listed items on his person. His details are in this week's episode, too. Desiree and I chat about the news story of Heather Mycoskie providing false information on Cian McLaughlin's whereabouts. The article is linked in the show notes below.

This episode was recorded on June 30, 2022.

Woman Banned From Grand Teton in Missing Man False Report

Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

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Out of Pinedale, Wyoming, a woman tells the story of her missing sister, Anne Elliot, or Anne Elliot Lancaster. I talk to Emily, Anne's sister, about Anne's struggles with experiencing addiction, her life, her childhood, and ultimately the day she went missing in Salt Lake City. On this episode I have interviews with Jason Jensen, the private investigator from We Help the Missing and Lana Mahoney from Recover Wyoming. And as always, I have an update with Desiree Tinoco with Missing People of Wyoming, so be sure to stay tuned.

Show Notes: Pinedale Woman Continues Search For Missing Sister;Over Two Years Now Without A Trace

Missing in Utah: ‘My sister matters’ says woman whose sister vanished

Recover Wyoming

To donate to Recover Wyoming

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

We Help the Missing

Salt Lake City Police Department: 801-799-3454

Jason Jensen: 801-759-2248

National Drug Hotline: 1-844-289-0879


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I apologize there isn't a full episode available. In lieu, here is an update on new cases listed on DCI--because we want to keep the cases out in front.  

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Missing People of Wyoming Facebook Group

Find Irene Gakwa Facebook Group


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As promised, here is the weekly segment featuring Desiree Tinoco from the Facebook page, Missing People of Wyoming. We also discuss a few national news pieces and an app that every Wyoming parent should download to keep their kiddos safe, online.

Recorded June 9, 2022

Articles, Links and Phone Numbers:

Missing People of Wyoming Facebook page

Some of the 70 missing for "Operation Lost Souls" found in Colorado

'Baby Holly Marie' found alive more than 40 years after her parents were murdered in Houston

The Charley Project

OffenderWatch App

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Find Irene Gakwa Facebook group

National Human Trafficking Hotline at (888) 373-7888.


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Out of Gillette, Wyoming comes the story of Irene Gakwa. Described as calming, quiet and adventurous, Irene was reported missing on March 20, 2022. In this episode I talk with Irene's oldest brother, Kennedy Wainaina about Irene and also the red flags that pushed the family to report Irene missing. I also speak to Carla Thurin, the Director of Safe House--Cheyenne about intimate partner violence. Then, joining me is Desiree Tinoco from the Facebook page: Missing People of Wyoming, where she provides updates about cases from around the state.

Show Notes:

Article(s) and phone numbers referenced:

Fiancé of Missing Gillette Woman Seen Purchasing Boots and Shovel, Arrested on Multiple Felonies

Fiancé Of Missing Gillette Woman Pleads Not Guilty To Felonies Related To Crimes Against Her

The Jury File

Safehouse--307-637-7233 (24/7) this number can be used for all of Wyoming. An advocate will direct you to your closet Safehouse services in your area.

Click here to donate to Safehouse.

Wyoming Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault

Missing People of Wyoming Facebook page

Gillette Police Department: 307-682-5155

Crime Stoppers: 307-228-4776

DCI Wyoming Missing People


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