REOPENED: DNA SPEAKS: Death Downstream
Summary
This episode details the 1993 murder of Shauna Yandel in Yakima, Washington, whose body was found in the river after she was last seen with her boyfriend Travis. After Travis and another suspect 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 aggravated first-degree murder. The story concludes with the emotional reactions of Shauna’s sister, Shannon, who finally received closure after nearly two decades of uncertainty.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: Progressive Insurance and Ernesta Rugs
Content warning and introduction to the cold case
Discovery of the body in the Yakima River
Shauna Yandel's life and relationship with Travis
Travis reports missing person and identifies the body
Travis becomes the primary suspect
Investigation shifts to Kenny Madden
Sponsor: Rosetta Stone language learning
Discovery of tire iron in Wilkie family car
Case goes cold and emotional toll on family
DNA samples found and CODIS hit identifies Clayton Stafford
Arrest of Clayton Stafford and family reaction
Prosecution builds the case for trial
Sponsors: Fabletics and Pluto TV
Trial testimony and guilty verdict
Victim impact statement and closure for the family
Sponsors: Pluto TV, Progressive, and Xocova
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