Sherry Black
Summary
This episode details the 2010 murder of Sherry Black, a beloved grandmother and bookstore owner in South Salt Lake City, Utah, who was brutally stabbed to death. After the case went cold for a decade due to lack of database matches, investigators utilized forensic genetic genealogy to identify the killer, Adam DeBurro, who confessed to a spontaneous act of rage. The hosts discuss the breakthrough in DNA technology, the suspect’s arrest, and the creation of the Sherry Black Foundation to support cold case investigations.
Topics discussed
Sponsorships and Patreon shoutouts
Episode introduction and case overview
Sherry Black's background and personal life
Relationship with Earl and memories from grandchildren
The bookstore business and pool anecdotes
Discovery of the body and initial shock
Sponsor segment for Quince
Forensic evidence and autopsy findings
Earl's alibi and the Miller family connection
Interviewing the last customer in the store
DNA results and lack of database matches
Investigation into a similar murder and press conference
Case goes cold and release of suspect composite
Forensic genetic genealogy and identifying relatives
Surveillance and DNA collection from trash
Interrogation and Adam DeBurrow's confession
Motive analysis and the role of kindness
Discussion on phenotyping and investigative tools
Legal proceedings and sentencing
The Sherry Black Foundation and training resources
Final thoughts on the case and closing remarks
Listener voicemail and episode outro
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