REOPENED: DNA SPEAKS: Death Downstream
Summary
This episode recounts the 1993 murder of Shauna Yandel in Yakima, Washington, whose body was found in the river by Boy Scouts. After initial suspects were cleared, the case went cold until forensic supervisor Kristen Schaefer located missing DNA samples in 2005. A CODIS hit in 2009 identified Clayton Stafford, leading to his arrest and conviction for first-degree murder. The story highlights the emotional toll on Shauna’s sister and the detective, culminating in Stafford’s life sentence and the family’s long-awaited closure.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: Progressive Insurance and Ernesta Rugs
Content Warning and Introduction to Cold Cases
Discovery of Shauna Yandel's Body in Yakima River
Shauna's Life, Relationship with Travis, and Move to WA
Police Response, Travis's Identification, and Initial Grief
Travis as Suspect: Interrogation and Polygraph Tests
Investigation of Kenny Madden and Alibi Verification
Reconstructing the Crime Scene and Transport Route
Sponsors: Rosetta Stone and Progressive Auto
The Wilkie Family Visit and Discovery of Tire Iron
Failed DNA Match and Case Goes Cold
2005: Kristen Schaefer Finds DNA and CODIS Hit
Arrest of Clayton Stafford and DNA Confirmation
Prosecution Prepares Case for Trial
Sponsors: Fabletics and Pluto TV
Trial: Defense Arguments and Guilty Verdict
Victim Impact Statements and Reflections on Closure
Sponsors: Pluto TV, Progressive, and Xocova
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