
Unsolved Wyoming: Cold Cases & Haunted Places
By Renee Nelson

Unsolved Wyoming: Cold Cases & Haunted PlacesJun 03, 2022

Missing: Wyoming Updates--09/15/2023
Check out the latest DCI updates, get the newest update for the missing hiker, Steve Keller, and a spoooky event plug--Midnight West Fest.
Show Notes:
Missing People of Wyoming Search For Hiker Missing In Wyoming’s Wind River Mountains Suspended

Missing: Wyoming Updates--08/25/2023
Check out the latest updates from the state!
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Missing: Wyoming Update--08/13/2023
Check out the latest DCI updates.
Show Notes: Dogs, Drones And Deputies To Make Final Search For Missing Worland Woman
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Missing: Wyoming Updates--08/05/2023
Check out the latest DCI updates--and only 4 cases were added. One was removed.
Show Notes:

Missing: Wyoming Update--07/22/2023
Check out the DCI updates and Cheyenne Frontier Days safety tips.
Show Notes:

Missing: Wyoming Update--07/14/2023
Check out the latest in DCI updates with Desiree Tinoco. Also, be sure to with Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group happy 4th birthday!
Show Notes:
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group
Missing People of Wyoming's Venmo: @MissingPeopleOfWyoming

Missing: Kimberly Kay Novak AKA Kimberly Kay Allen
Kimberly Kay Novak was no angel, but when you listen to her sister, Becky, talk about her, you can hear the love and longing for the woman who made her wedding a memorable event. Even though Kim had a free-spirit and did her own thing on her own terms, she always touched base with family--especially on Father's Day. So when those special occasion calls stopped coming, Becky said they knew something was wrong. In this incredible interview I also have audio recording of Becky and Marissa, a medium. And of course, I have DCI updates with Desiree Tinoco.
Show Notes:
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group
DCI Long-time Friend Seeks Public’s Help in Locating Cheyenne Woman

Missing: Wyoming Update--06/16/2023
Check out the latest DCI Updates with Desiree Tinoco!
Show Notes:

Missing: Wyoming Update--06/10/2023

Happy Anniversary--What a Year!
Thank you so much for tuning in over the last year! Be sure to check out the new logo and Unsolved Wyoming website. I also have the updates from DCI.
Show Notes:

Missing: Wyoming Update--05/12/2023
Check out the latest DCI updates!
Show Notes:
Wyoming Missing and Murdered Indigenous Task Force Meeting

Missing: John Daily Hammond
John Daily Hammond, also known as "John-John" disappeared into the night November 6, 2021. This is his story told by his sister Georgeanne. Not only does his family miss him, but so does the community of Thermopolis. John frequented the library and the senior center. He could be seen reading while walking or helping around the community. I also have updates with Desiree so be sure to stay tuned.
Show Notes:
Sister Not Giving Up Hope Of Finding Missing Thermopolis Man

Missing: Wyoming Update--04/28/2023

In the Field: Jennifer C. Kocher, Journalist
An incredible story-teller and bonafide crime junkie, journalist Jennifer Kocher, is the perfect combination of sunshine and grit. I've worked with Jen now for the last year. I credit her to strapping me the driver seat of this podcast. Without her, I don't know if I would be recording this now, because when she got word some English teacher in Cheyenne was wanting to start a podcast, she contacted me to write the first piece of media on Unsolved Wyoming, and the rest is history. I've been working with Jen ever since. We collaborate and her work is always a piece of source material for the cases I report. But, like any good writer, she doesn't have a straight path--this is her story and take on the unsolved. Be sure to stay tuned because we do have DCI updates with Desiree Tinoco.
Show Notes:

Missing: Wyoming Update--03/31/2023
Check out the latest from DCI. Also, I have the latest on Nathan Hightman's plea change and a cool Laramie County Community College Event you should come to.
Show Notes:
THE SEARCH FOR IRENE: Fiancé of Missing Kenyan Pleads Guilty to Felony, Financial Crimes

Missing: Wyoming Updates--03/24/2023
Check out the latest updates from DCI with Desiree Tinoco. I also have an update on Irene Gakwa's case.
Show Notes:
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook Group THE SEARCH FOR IRENE: Fiancé of Missing Kenyan to Change Plea for Alleged Felony Financial Crimes

Missing: Wyoming Update--03/11/2023
Check out the latest updates from DCI with Desiree Tinoco.
Show Notes:

Missing: Christopher Dale Mauk
I interview the sister of Christopher Dale Mauk, a man missing since July of 2022. I also have DCI updates as well, so be sure to stay tuned.
Warning: the sound quality of my voice in the interview is not up to snuff--I am going to send it out to get cleaned up, but in the meantime...you've been warned.
Show Notes:

Missing: Wyoming Update--2/24/2023
Here are the updates from DCI with Desiree Tinoco and details on the new Missing Persons Alert Systems bill that has been signed as of 2/21/2023.
Show Notes:
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Book: True Crime and Deaf Row Chat with Ron Franscell
Folks, as promised I have author Ron Franscell back on the pod to talk about his latest book Deaf Row, a crime fiction. I know--but this is a true crime podcast? Don't worry, Ron and I chat everything from the book itself, to Ron's writing, to how true crime influences art/entertainment. And as always, I have a short update from Desiree Tinoco.
Show Notes:

Missing: Kyle Jay Ellis
Missed by many, the big-hearted Kyle Jay Ellis has disappeared without a trace. I interview his mother, Heather, for this episode. She describes Kyle's generous spirit and adventurous nature that started as small child, and how as an adult his quest for God led him on religious pilgrimages, which is what he was doing when he disappeared in Greybull, Wyoming. I also have an interview with Captain David Janes from the Cheyenne Police Department, where he discusses some incredible initiatives the PD has launched to help better assist folks experiencing a mental health crisis episode. And, as always, I have an update from DCI.
Show Notes:
Mother Of Missing Sheridan Man Still Hopeful After Four Years
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Missing:Wyoming Update--1/27/2023
And here is the weekly update from DCI with Desiree Tinoco.
Show Notes:

Missing: Wyoming Update--1/20/2023
We have updates from DCI with Desiree Tinoco. Thanks for listening in.
Show Notes:

Homicide: Davida Peterson
She was her sister's bowling partner, her granddaughter's primary caretaker, and she delivered the Casper Star, Davida Peterson, is the quintessential small town Wyoming woman that we all know. Join me as I talk to Linda Beauchamp about her sister, Davida, and the nightmare that unfolded the evening before mother's day. Be sure to stay tuned because I have DCI updates from Desiree Tinoco.
Show Notes: Wyoming Has 5 Intriguing Old Missing Person & Homicide Cases
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook Group

Missing: Wyoming Update--1/06/2023
Catch up on the latest updates from DCI and some other interesting developments from around the state.
Show Notes:
THE SEARCH FOR IRENE: Trial for Fiancé Over Alleged Financial Crimes Likely to be Delayed
MMIW documentary to premiere at Sundance
Foot Found in Yellowstone Hot Pool, But Case Is Still MurkyMissing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Missing: Wyoming Update--12/09/2022
Here is the latest missing person update as of 12/09/2022.
Show Notes:
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group
Casper Police Arrest One in New Day Spa Human Trafficking Investigation, Victim Rescued

Missing: Wyoming Update--11/22/2022
Here is the weekly update with Missing People of Wyoming's Desiree Tinoco.
Show Notes:
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook Group

Missing: Wyoming Update--11/14/2022
Here are the updates from Desiree Tinoco. We also talk about some missing person scams as well.
Show Notes:
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Missing: Wyoming Update--11/07/2022
Today is a short update from the Missing People of Wyoming's Facebook group's Desiree Tinoco.
Show Notes:
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Haunted: Crossover with Dean Petersen from That Doesn't Happen Every Day Podcast
Show Notes:
That Doesn't Happen Every Day podcast
The Burqa Cave book
DCI
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Missing: Wyoming Update--10/21/2022
Folks, here is this week's updates from DCI.
Show Notes:

Haunted: Historic Crime Tales with Ron Franscell
Hello spooky season! On this week's episode, I have legendary author Ron Franscell to tell us creepy crime tales. Then I have historian Rick Johnson, director of Fort Casper to tell us about the upcoming haunted tours. After, I have a founding member, Josh Saxon, of Midnight West Productions, to tell us about the upcoming Midnight West Fest at the Haunted Atlas theater in Cheyenne, Wyoming. And as always, I have the update from Missing People of Wyoming's Desiree Tinoco.
Show Notes:
Crime Buff's Guide to the Rockies
Irene Gakwa Update: THE SEARCH FOR IRENE: Multiple Agencies Return for Second Search of the Fiancé’s Home of Missing Gillette Resident by Jen Kocher
Missing: Wyoming Updates --09/30/2022
Folks, here are the latest updates from DCI thanks to Desiree Tinoco. Be sure to tune in next week for some spooky tales.

In the Field: Be 307 Aware
Be 307 Aware Facebook Page
Be 307 Aware Flier
DCI
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Missing: Wyoming Update--09/16/2022
Folks. as always I have the DCI update with Desiree Tinoco from the Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group. I have stories in the works that I look forward to bringing you soon.
Show Notes:
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group
14 missing, endangered children rescued during operation 'Summer Knights'

Missing: Wyoming Update--09/09/2022
As always, here is the weekly DCI update with Desiree Tinoco. There seems to be more cases with the start of school. We also talk about a concerning trend "the back to school necklace" as well.
Show Notes:
What is a 'Back-to-School Necklace'? All About This Disturbing Trend That Parents Need to Know About

Missing: Terry Meador
An avid hunter and excited grandfather, Terry Meador, set out into a coveted hunting area to scout deer for an upcoming hunting trip with his son and grandson. However, when Terry didn't show up to a friend's house to process an antelope, it was clear that something wasn't right. In this episode, I talk with BJ Meador, Terry's son, about his father, growing up, his dad's legacy in Rock Springs, and the events leading up to Terry's disappearance. I also talk with Sara DiRienzo, a fellow hunting enthusiast and public information officer with Wyoming Game and Fish. There is also a new initiative to help outdoor enthusiasts to make sure they make it home that I want to tell you about. And of course, I have a DCI update with Desiree Tinoco from Missing People of Wyoming's Facebook group, so be sure to stay tuned.
Show Notes:

Missing: Wyoming Update--8/19/2022--Back to School Edition
Folks, as many of you know, I am a full-time instructor at Laramie County Community College in Cheyenne, Wyoming. So, this week has been in high gear with getting ready to for the new semester. I have some great interviews set up for next week, but I only have an update episode for this week. I wanted to highlight some back to school tips, including to take the #ForMak pledge along with a few other small news stories. As always, I have the update with Missing People of Wyoming's Desiree Tinoco.
Show Notes:

Missing: Wyoming Update--8/12/2022
Here is an update with Desiree Tinoco with DCI's most recent cases. I also share some tips from Grand Teton National Park for late summer recreating.
Show Notes:

In the Field: Desiree Tinoco of Missing People of Wyoming
Show Notes:
DCI
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group

Missing: Wyoming Update--7/29/2022
Folks, check out the latest update from DCI with Desiree Tinoco. I also have some safety tips for Cheyenne Frontier Days, but I know fair season is among us, too. Be sure to check them out.
Show Notes:

Missing: Irene Gakwa Update
Show Notes:
Find Irene Facebook group
DCI

Missing: Wyoming Update--7/15/2022
Here are the latest missing cases here in Wyoming. I also have a short PSA at the end on fair safety.

Missing: Renee Diane Yeargain
A highly motivated mom, with a punk rock aesthetic, didn't quite fit in the quiet town of Torrington, Wyoming. So, when she was reported missing, the investigation into Renee Yeargain's whereabouts, was a little slow. 18 years later, and Renee's case is still unsolved. For Renee's story, I interview Jess Oakes, a dedicated acquaintance, Angelina Schimer, Renee's daughter, Agent Hansen, Head of DCI's Cold Case Unit, and an unnamed source, who knew Renee growing up. As always, I have a DCI update from the Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group.
Woman Won’t Give Up Seeking Justice in Torrington’s Only Unsolved Missing Person Case
Where is Renee Diane Yeargain--Facebook Page
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group
Amanda Waldron: 307-797-0363
DCI: (307) 777-7181

Missing: Wyoming Update--7/1/2022
Happy birthday, America! As listeners go out to celebrate the land of the free and home of the brave, please be on the lookout for the folks listed on DCI's missing people's list. Thank you to Desiree Tinoco from the Missing People of Wyoming, Facebook group for providing updates. Also, if you are recreating in Grand Teton National Park, please be on the lookout for Cian McLaughlin or the listed items on his person. His details are in this week's episode, too. Desiree and I chat about the news story of Heather Mycoskie providing false information on Cian McLaughlin's whereabouts. The article is linked in the show notes below.
This episode was recorded on June 30, 2022.
Woman Banned From Grand Teton in Missing Man False Report

Missing: Anne Elliot Lancaster
Out of Pinedale, Wyoming, a woman tells the story of her missing sister, Anne Elliot, or Anne Elliot Lancaster. I talk to Emily, Anne's sister, about Anne's struggles with experiencing addiction, her life, her childhood, and ultimately the day she went missing in Salt Lake City. On this episode I have interviews with Jason Jensen, the private investigator from We Help the Missing and Lana Mahoney from Recover Wyoming. And as always, I have an update with Desiree Tinoco with Missing People of Wyoming, so be sure to stay tuned.
Show Notes: Pinedale Woman Continues Search For Missing Sister;Over Two Years Now Without A Trace
Missing in Utah: ‘My sister matters’ says woman whose sister vanished
To donate to Recover Wyoming
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook group
Salt Lake City Police Department: 801-799-3454
Jason Jensen: 801-759-2248
National Drug Hotline: 1-844-289-0879

Missing: Wyoming Update--6/16/2022
I apologize there isn't a full episode available. In lieu, here is an update on new cases listed on DCI--because we want to keep the cases out in front.

Missing: Wyoming Update--6/10/2022
As promised, here is the weekly segment featuring Desiree Tinoco from the Facebook page, Missing People of Wyoming. We also discuss a few national news pieces and an app that every Wyoming parent should download to keep their kiddos safe, online.
Recorded June 9, 2022
Articles, Links and Phone Numbers:
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook page
Some of the 70 missing for "Operation Lost Souls" found in Colorado
'Baby Holly Marie' found alive more than 40 years after her parents were murdered in Houston
Find Irene Gakwa Facebook group
National Human Trafficking Hotline at (888) 373-7888.

Missing: Irene Gakwa
Out of Gillette, Wyoming comes the story of Irene Gakwa. Described as calming, quiet and adventurous, Irene was reported missing on March 20, 2022. In this episode I talk with Irene's oldest brother, Kennedy Wainaina about Irene and also the red flags that pushed the family to report Irene missing. I also speak to Carla Thurin, the Director of Safe House--Cheyenne about intimate partner violence. Then, joining me is Desiree Tinoco from the Facebook page: Missing People of Wyoming, where she provides updates about cases from around the state.
Show Notes:
Article(s) and phone numbers referenced:
Fiancé of Missing Gillette Woman Seen Purchasing Boots and Shovel, Arrested on Multiple Felonies
Fiancé Of Missing Gillette Woman Pleads Not Guilty To Felonies Related To Crimes Against Her
Safehouse--307-637-7233 (24/7) this number can be used for all of Wyoming. An advocate will direct you to your closet Safehouse services in your area.
Click here to donate to Safehouse.
Wyoming Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault
Missing People of Wyoming Facebook page
Gillette Police Department: 307-682-5155
Crime Stoppers: 307-228-4776