REOPENED: DNA SPEAKS: Horror in the Dark
Summary
This episode recounts the 1977 double murder of teenagers Liana Adank and Eric Goldstrand at Broken Bull Campground in Oregon. After the case went cold for decades, investigators utilized DNA phenotyping and genetic genealogy to identify Ronald Schroy as the killer. The story concludes with Schroy’s suicide in 2021, which provided the DNA match that finally solved the case 44 years later.
Topics discussed
Sponsors and show introduction
The day of the picnic in Eugene, Oregon
Parents search for missing teens at Broken Bull
Discovery of Liana's body and police response
Memories of Eric and Liana from friends and family
Crime scene processing and discovery of Eric's body
Autopsy results and the double funeral
Early investigation and initial suspects
Case goes cold and early DNA attempts
Formation of the cold case unit
Investigation of serial killer Thor Christensen
Failed familial DNA match with Christensen
Genetic genealogy identifies the Schroy brothers
Narrowing suspects and Ronald Schroy's suicide
DNA confirmation and interview with Daniel Schroy
Family reactions and closing remarks
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