Kona Gallagher Kona Gallagher

20 Years Gone: The story of Brianna Maitland - part 1

Brianna Maitland's disappearance in Montgomery, Vermont, continues to baffle investigators and captivate the public's attention. Despite extensive search efforts and numerous leads, the mystery surrounding Brianna's vanishing remains unresolved. Join us for part one of a two-part podcast series discussing Brianna Maitland’s disappearance.

Born in Burlington, Vermont, on October 8, 1986, Brianna Maitland seemed to have a typical small-town upbringing. However, beneath her seemingly confident exterior lay insecurities that may have played a role in her vanishing. In part one of our two-part series, we delve into the perplexing case of Brianna Maitland's disappearance, exploring the events leading up to that fateful night and the early part of the investigation.

Raised in a farmhouse in East Franklin, Vermont, just a stone's throw from the Canadian border, Brianna grew up alongside her older brother, Waylon. Despite her outward confidence, Brianna struggled with a desire for acceptance, a theme that would later become significant in understanding her disappearance.

Brianna's transition to Enosburg Falls High School marked a pivotal moment in her life. Seeking independence, she moved out of her family home at 17, embarking on a journey that would lead to unforeseen challenges. The new crowd she began hanging out with exposed her to a world of partying and experimentation with drugs, causing concern among her friends and family.

A violent altercation at a party in February 2004 left Brianna hospitalized with severe injuries. Despite her training in jiu-jitsu, Brianna's reluctance to fight back revealed her fear of confrontation and desire to avoid conflict at all costs. This incident, coupled with other stressors, led Brianna to drop out of school and seek refuge with a friend in Sheldon, Vermont.

March 19, 2004 started as a day of celebration for Brianna, who had just passed a math exam as part of her GED studies. However, a trip to the store with her mother took an ominous turn when Brianna appeared shaken and agitated after apparently seeing someone in the parking lot and speaking to them. Later that evening, Brianna vanished after leaving her job at the Black Lantern Inn, leaving behind a trail of unanswered questions.

A day after her disappearance, Brianna's car was found abandoned, crashed into an abandoned house known as The Dutchburn House. Despite the discovery of uncashed paychecks and personal belongings, authorities initially dismissed the incident as a drunk driving accident, delaying the investigation into Brianna's disappearance.

As weeks turned into months, Brianna's family and law enforcement launched an extensive search effort, following up on leads and tips. Despite the emergence of theories involving drug connections and potential abductions, Brianna's whereabouts remain unknown to this day.

Listen to Brianna Maitland: Part One by subscribing to And Then They Were Gone on your favorite podcast app.

Sources:

Photos:

Videos:

Transcript:

Read More
Kona Gallagher Kona Gallagher

The Disappearance of Gretchen Fleming: A Deep Dive

Gretchen Eve Fleming's disappearance on December 3, 2022, sent shockwaves through Parkersburg, West Virginia, leaving her family and community grappling with unanswered questions. Last seen with Preston Pierce, a man with a troubling past, Gretchen's story unveils a web of suspicion and uncertainty. Despite exhaustive search efforts and forensic testing, the truth behind Gretchen's vanishing act remains elusive. As the investigation continues, her family and the tight-knit community remain united in their quest for justice and closure, determined to unravel the mysteries surrounding Gretchen's fate.

Gretchen Eve Fleming's story begins on December 24, 1994, in Warrenton, Virginia. Born prematurely at 3 pounds and 12 ounces, Gretchen's early life was marked by challenges, including her parents' divorce when she was a child. Raised alongside her younger sister Emma by her father David, Gretchen experienced a shift in family dynamics when her father married Jennifer, bringing three-year-old twins into the fold. The family soon grew with the addition of another child, making Gretchen the eldest of five siblings.

Known for her intelligence, athleticism, and vibrant personality, Gretchen's journey led her from Parkersburg to Raleigh, North Carolina, after high school. Her nomadic spirit and aversion to settling down led her through various jobs and relationships, eventually bringing her back to Parkersburg, West Virginia, where tragedy struck with her mother's unexpected passing.

Living with her grandparents and working at a local H&M store, Gretchen maintained her independence while embracing the quiet familiarity of her hometown. However, her disappearance on December 3, 2022, sent shockwaves through the community and sparked a desperate search for answers.

The events leading to Gretchen's disappearance unfolded in the local bar scene, where she was last seen with Preston Pierce, a figure known for his dubious reputation and unsettling demeanor. Surveillance footage captured Gretchen leaving a bar with Pierce, igniting suspicions and prompting swift police action.

As the investigation unfolded, disturbing details emerged about Pierce's past, including allegations of misconduct during his tenure as a police officer and a pattern of unsettling behavior reported by various individuals. Despite Pierce's inconsistent statements and the mounting evidence against him, the search for Gretchen yielded few leads.

Parkersburg Police, facing mounting pressure from the community, executed multiple search warrants and enlisted the help of volunteer groups to scour nearby parks for any trace of Gretchen. Yet, as months passed and forensic testing yielded few breakthroughs, Gretchen's family clung to hope while grappling with the agonizing uncertainty of her fate.

Today, Gretchen's story continues to resonate throughout Parkersburg and beyond, as online discussions and active community involvement keep her memory alive. While the investigation into her disappearance persists, her family remains steadfast in their pursuit of justice, determined to uncover the truth behind Gretchen's mysterious vanishing act.

In the heart of West Virginia, Gretchen's absence serves as a haunting reminder of the dangers lurking beneath the surface and the enduring strength of a community united in the quest for closure.

As investigators and loved ones alike remain vigilant in their search, one truth remains clear: Gretchen Eve Fleming's story is far from over.

Sources:

Photos:

Videos:

Transcript:

Read More
Kona Gallagher Kona Gallagher

The Disappearance of Pepita Redhair: A Mother's Search for Answers

From the small town of Crownpoint to the bustling streets of Albuquerque, Pepita Redhair’s vibrant spirit touched the lives of all who knew her. Yet, amidst the darkness of her disappearance, her mother Anita King emerged as a beacon of strength, rallying her community in a tireless quest for justice. As the search for answers continues, Pepita's legacy serves as a reminder of the enduring power of love and the unwavering resilience of the human spirit.

Pepita Madalyn Redhair's story begins in the heart of New Mexico, but it's a tale that has gripped the nation with its mysteries and unanswered questions. Born in Gallup, New Mexico, Pepita's journey took her from the small town of Crownpoint to the bustling streets of Albuquerque, where she pursued her dreams amidst the challenges of life.

From an early age, Pepita's vibrant spirit shone through. A talented artist and social butterfly, she charmed those around her with her passion for skateboarding and zest for life. But beneath her cheerful demeanor lay a tumultuous journey marked by love, abuse, and ultimately, an inexplicable disappearance.

After graduating high school, Pepita sought greener pastures in Albuquerque, where she found work at Hot Topic and pursued her studies at the University of New Mexico. It was there that she met Nicholas Kaye, a man who would become both the love of her life and the source of her deepest anguish.

Pepita's relationship with Nicholas was fraught with turmoil, marred by instances of domestic violence that left her family deeply concerned. Despite their pleas for her to leave, Pepita remained steadfast, clinging to the hope of a better future with Nicholas by her side.

As the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the nation, Pepita's world grew increasingly uncertain. A routine lunch with her mother on March 24, 2020, would be the last time Anita King saw her daughter. Days turned into weeks, and Pepita's absence became a haunting reality for her family.

Faced with the indifference of authorities and the looming shadow of uncertainty, Anita and her family embarked on a desperate search for answers. From distributing flyers to scouring desert landscapes, they left no stone unturned in their quest to find Pepita.

Yet, amid the darkness, glimmers of hope emerged. A tip led them to City Park, a fleeting moment of possibility in an otherwise harrowing journey. But as days turned into months, the truth remained elusive, overshadowed by the specter of human trafficking and systemic indifference.

In the face of adversity, Anita King emerged as a beacon of resilience, rallying her community in a relentless pursuit of justice. From organizing rallies to confronting authorities, she refused to let her daughter's voice be silenced by the passage of time.

As the investigation languished in bureaucratic limbo, Anita's resolve remained unshaken. With each passing day, she held onto the hope that Pepita would be found, her spirit driving their quest for truth and closure.

In the heart of New Mexico, amidst the vast expanse of desert sands, Pepita Redhair's spirit endures—a testament to the enduring power of love, hope, and the unwavering pursuit of truth.

Sources:

Photos:

Videos:

Transcript:

Read More
Kona Gallagher Kona Gallagher

The Unsolved Mystery of Michael Dunahee: A Search for Answers

In 1991, young Michael Dunahee vanished during a flag football tournament in Victoria, leaving a void that decades have failed to fill. The Dunahee family's unwavering hope endures through annual events like the Michael Dunahee Keep the Hope Alive run, now in its 32nd year. Despite unsettling twists, from self-proclaimed psychics to false claimants, the family persists. Crystal's recent DNA submission symbolizes their ongoing quest for answers. The lingering question remains—where is Michael Dunahee, and will the shadows of this enduring mystery ever reveal the truth?

Michael Wayne Dunahee's disappearance in 1991 remains one of the most haunting mysteries in Victoria, British Columbia. Born on May 12, 1986, to Crystal and Bruce Dunahee, Michael vanished without a trace during a flag football tournament at Blanshard Park Elementary School. Despite the years that have passed, the Dunahee family continues their relentless pursuit of answers.

The Disappearance

March 24, 1991 started as a typical suburban Sunday for the Dunahee family. Crystal, Bruce, and their two children, Michael and Caitlin, headed to the elementary school for a flag football tournament. Michael, only four years old, was drawn to the adjacent playground. Despite initial misgivings, Crystal allowed him to play while she prepared for the tournament.

The events leading to Michael's disappearance are somewhat unclear. Conflicting accounts mention a game of hide and seek, but early newspaper articles contained factual errors. What is certain is that Michael went missing, prompting an immediate response from the police and the community. Detective Inspector Fred Mills described the situation as more than a missing child—it had all the signs of an abduction.

Search Efforts

The search for Michael involved over 200 people, including police, civilians, and the Coast Guard. Helicopters with heat-seeking equipment scoured the area, but the first week yielded no leads. Tips poured in, and police released a sketch of a potential suspect described as a Caucasian male in his late 30s or early 40s.

Amidst the search, reports of a brown van and a potential link to previous abduction attempts in the area surfaced. As the investigation progressed, the focus shifted from the van to other leads, and by April 4, the police ruled out its significance.

Twists and Turns

The case took various turns over the years, with tips ranging from sightings of Michael to unsettling discoveries. Despite investigations into individuals claiming to be Michael, DNA tests consistently proved otherwise. Notably, a self-proclaimed psychic named Vernon Seitz had one of Michael's missing posters, but no connection was established.

As the years passed, the Dunahees faced accusations and wild speculations. Online sleuths suggested Michael's appearance on a cooking show or his involvement in a supposed satanic ritual. The prevailing theories, however, revolve around his abduction and murder by a local sex offender or his upbringing by a woman unable to have children.

Keeping Hope Alive

Michael's parents, Crystal and Bruce, never gave up hope and continued searching for their son. The annual Michael Dunahee Keep the Hope Alive fun run and walk, now in its 32nd year, keeps Michael's memory alive. Crystal and Bruce's enduring marriage, a rare feat among parents of long-term missing children, reflects their unwavering commitment.

Despite the challenges, Crystal remains optimistic, submitting her DNA to national databases in case Michael explores his family history. In 2021, the Victoria police launched an online portal for tips, receiving hundreds since its inception.

The mystery of Michael Dunahee's disappearance persists, leaving the family, investigators, and the community yearning for answers. As technology and awareness advance, hope remains that someone, somewhere, holds the key to solving this enduring puzzle. The Dunahees continue their quest for closure, fueled by the belief that Michael may still be alive, waiting for the truth to come to light. The case remains open, and until the day answers emerge, the search for Michael Dunahee continues.

You can listen to the full episode of ‘And Then They Were Gone’ on your favorite podcast app.

Sources:

Photos:

Videos:

Read More
Kona Gallagher Kona Gallagher

A Night Out in Columbus: The Tyler Davis Disappearance

In the shadow of a seemingly ordinary night out in Columbus, Ohio, Tyler Davis’s unexplained disappearance during a night of celebration with his wife, Brittany, has perplexed investigators and intrigued online communities. From the twists and turns of their evening to the speculative theories surrounding Tyler's fate, this episode delves into the heart-wrenching details of a case that remains unsolved years later. Join us on a journey through the timeline, theories, and complexities surrounding Tyler Davis's disappearance. Subscribe and listen on your favorite podcast app.

Tyler James Davis, born on June 30, 1989, went missing during a night out in Columbus, Ohio, on February 24, 2019. Tyler and his wife Brittany's seemingly normal life took a dark turn as Tyler, a devoted father and restaurant manager, vanished without a trace.

The couple's night started with dinner and drinks with a friend, Schon, culminating in a visit to a local strip club. The evening took a distressing turn when Tyler, confused and agitated, walked away from the hotel. Despite attempts to reassure Brittany, Tyler never returned.

The timeline of events, revealed through credit card and phone records, paints a vivid picture. Tyler's route, tracked through digital forensics, led him through suburban areas and eventually to a wooded location near the hotel. Phone communication suggested Tyler's confusion about the hotel's location, raising questions about a potential misidentification.

Various theories emerged, from the possibility of accidental drowning in a nearby pond to speculations about the Smiley Face Killers. The police's belief in a water-related tragedy, although unconfirmed, adds complexity to the mystery.

Amid online speculations and accusations, Brittany faced scrutiny, with unfounded claims about her family background and motives. Theories ranged from financial gain to involvement in a supposed family tradition of foul play. The internet's role in shaping public perceptions complicated an already challenging situation.

In December 2021, an Ohio court officially declared Tyler Davis dead, almost three years after his disappearance. As the fifth anniversary approaches, the case remains unresolved, with the Columbus PD urging anyone with information to come forward. Brittany and Schon strive to move forward, away from the public eye, while the search for answers continues in the frustratingly cold case of Tyler Davis's disappearance.

Sources:

Photos:

Videos:

Read More
Kona Gallagher Kona Gallagher

Steven Cozzi: A Timeline

In the latest episode of the And Then They Were Gone podcast, we dive into the mysterious disappearance of Steven Cozzi, a lawyer from Largo, Florida. Cozzi went missing from his law office on March 21, 2023, and five days later, plastic surgeon Tomasz Kosowski was arrested for his murder. However, Cozzi's body has yet to be found, leaving his family in a state of despair.

This episode delves into the history between Cozzi and Kosowski, exploring their relationship and possible motives. The timeline of the case is also examined, shedding light on the events surrounding Cozzi's disappearance and Kosowski's subsequent arrest.

The evidence that led to Kosowski's arrest is also discussed, including the red Toyota Corolla that he was known to have been driving in the South Florida area between March 21 and March 26. The Largo Police Department is still seeking any information on Kosowski or his vehicle, and anyone with information is urged to contact Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers.

The disappearance of Steven Cozzi is a tragic case that has left his family and loved ones in a state of uncertainty and grief. We’re dedicated to shedding light on these types of cases and bringing closure to those affected. We hope that by bringing attention to this case, we can help bring justice for Steven Cozzi and his family.

Sources:

Kosowski Lawsuit

Kosowski Search Warrant

Kosowski PC Affidavit

Kosowski Risk Protection Order

Photos:

Videos:

Read More
Kona Gallagher Kona Gallagher

The Vanishing Chef: Looking into the 2009 Disappearance of Claudia Lawrence

In 2009, Claudia Lawrence, a 35-year-old chef at the University of York, vanished without a trace. Despite extensive searches and investigations, no one has been able to solve the mystery of her disappearance. In this episode, Kona and Ethan delve into the details of the case, exploring the possible motives and suspects, as well as the challenges faced by investigators. Join us as we take a closer look at one of the most perplexing missing person cases in recent history.

The disappearance of Claudia Lawrence in 2009 is a case that has captivated the attention of the public and law enforcement officials alike. Claudia Lawrence was a 35-year-old chef who worked at the University of York. She was last seen on March 18, 2009, and her disappearance has remained a mystery ever since.

The investigation into Claudia's disappearance has been one of the largest and most complex in the history of North Yorkshire Police. The police have conducted extensive searches of the area around Claudia's home and workplace, as well as interviewing hundreds of people who knew her. Despite these efforts, no trace of Claudia has been found, and no arrests have been made in connection with her disappearance.

One of the most puzzling aspects of Claudia's disappearance is the lack of any clear motive. She was not involved in any criminal activity, and there was no evidence of any personal or financial problems that might have led her to disappear. This has led some to speculate that Claudia may have been the victim of a random attack, or that she may have been abducted by someone she knew.

Another factor that has made the investigation into Claudia's disappearance difficult is the lack of physical evidence. There were no signs of a struggle at Claudia's home, and no DNA or other forensic evidence has been found that might help to identify a suspect. This has led some to suggest that Claudia may have been the victim of a carefully planned and executed crime, with the perpetrator taking great care to avoid leaving any evidence behind.

Despite the challenges faced by investigators, the case of Claudia Lawrence remains open, and the police continue to follow up on any leads or new information that may come to light. The disappearance of Claudia Lawrence is a tragic reminder of the dangers that can lurk in our communities, and the importance of remaining vigilant and aware of our surroundings. It is also a testament to the tireless efforts of law enforcement officials who work tirelessly to bring justice to victims and their families.

Listen to this episode of And Then They Were Gone for a deep dive into the investigation into Claudia Lawrence’s disappearance.

Sources:


Photos:

Videos:

Read More