# Start End Original Translated
1 00:00:12,750 00:00:13,840 - ♪ - ♪
2 00:00:13,920 00:00:16,290 - Female narrator: Here in this california cemetery, - Female narrator: Here in this california cemetery,
3 00:00:16,370 00:00:18,920 A woman has been at rest. A woman has been at rest.
4 00:00:19,000 00:00:21,970 The victim of a brutal murder. The victim of a brutal murder.
5 00:00:22,000 00:00:25,850 But today, she's going to rise up... But today, she's going to rise up...
6 00:00:25,930 00:00:29,140 To catch her own killer. To catch her own killer.
7 00:00:29,170 00:00:31,140 A young mother vanishes. A young mother vanishes.
8 00:00:31,180 00:00:34,850 - She had not been seen. She had not used credit cards. - She had not been seen. She had not used credit cards.
9 00:00:34,860 00:00:36,980 - We tried to think positively, - We tried to think positively,
10 00:00:37,020 00:00:40,370 Even though it might not be a good outcome. Even though it might not be a good outcome.
11 00:00:40,440 00:00:42,540 - Narrator: Did she run off? - Narrator: Did she run off?
12 00:00:42,610 00:00:44,460 Or is there foul play at work? Or is there foul play at work?
13 00:00:49,860 00:00:53,620 - Narrator: Police follow a strange path of twisting clues. - Narrator: Police follow a strange path of twisting clues.
14 00:00:53,700 00:00:56,370 - He talked about killing this woman... - He talked about killing this woman...
15 00:00:56,390 00:00:58,670 Rolling her up in a blanket. Rolling her up in a blanket.
16 00:00:58,750 00:01:00,550 - I was afraid he was gonna kill me. - I was afraid he was gonna kill me.
17 00:01:02,970 00:01:05,510 - Narrator: The truth can only be discovered - Narrator: The truth can only be discovered
18 00:01:05,540 00:01:07,390 By disturbing the dead. By disturbing the dead.
19 00:01:07,470 00:01:10,470 - ♪ - ♪
20 00:01:10,550 00:01:15,520 - We were 1000% ready and willing to do - We were 1000% ready and willing to do
21 00:01:15,600 00:01:17,780 Whatever it took for justice to be served. Whatever it took for justice to be served.
22 00:01:21,410 00:01:28,250 - ♪ - ♪
23 00:01:29,750 00:01:30,960 ♪♪ ♪♪
24 00:01:31,920 00:01:33,700 - ♪ - ♪
25 00:01:33,740 00:01:36,750 - Narrator: Cordelia, california, is a quiet suburb - Narrator: Cordelia, california, is a quiet suburb
26 00:01:36,760 00:01:40,040 Where nothing much out of the ordinary happens. Where nothing much out of the ordinary happens.
27 00:01:40,080 00:01:43,760 But today, the community's tranquility is interrupted by But today, the community's tranquility is interrupted by
28 00:01:43,840 00:01:46,510 A concerning 911 call. A concerning 911 call.
29 00:01:46,590 00:01:51,050 - ♪ - ♪
30 00:01:51,130 00:01:54,930 - Fairfield police department received a phone call from - Fairfield police department received a phone call from
31 00:01:54,940 00:01:56,560 A person who reported A person who reported
32 00:01:56,640 00:02:00,690 That his girlfriend of many years was missing. That his girlfriend of many years was missing.
33 00:02:00,770 00:02:04,070 He had expressed some concerns that she had left the residence He had expressed some concerns that she had left the residence
34 00:02:04,140 00:02:05,580 And hadn't returned. And hadn't returned.
35 00:02:09,980 00:02:10,790 - Narrator: Fairfield police - Narrator: Fairfield police
36 00:02:10,870 00:02:13,870 Ride out to the home of lonnie kerley. Ride out to the home of lonnie kerley.
37 00:02:13,950 00:02:16,250 He is worried that his longtime girlfriend, He is worried that his longtime girlfriend,
38 00:02:16,280 00:02:19,920 Danna dever, has gone missing. Danna dever, has gone missing.
39 00:02:19,950 00:02:22,710 - Bill: Danna and lonnie had been living together for - Bill: Danna and lonnie had been living together for
40 00:02:22,790 00:02:25,470 10 or 11 years, similarly to husband and wife, 10 or 11 years, similarly to husband and wife,
41 00:02:25,550 00:02:26,770 But never actually got married. But never actually got married.
42 00:02:29,290 00:02:32,050 Danna was a stay-at-home mother to their young daughter. Danna was a stay-at-home mother to their young daughter.
43 00:02:32,130 00:02:34,260 Lonnie worked at a local school district Lonnie worked at a local school district
44 00:02:34,300 00:02:36,930 In the maintenance department. In the maintenance department.
45 00:02:37,010 00:02:39,440 He said danna left June 14. He said danna left June 14.
46 00:02:39,510 00:02:40,940 And he remembers it very specifically 'cause it was And he remembers it very specifically 'cause it was
47 00:02:41,010 00:02:42,910 The last day of school for their daughter. The last day of school for their daughter.
48 00:02:45,490 00:02:48,540 - Lonnie said she did not take her car when she left. - Lonnie said she did not take her car when she left.
49 00:02:50,170 00:02:54,780 And she left with the clothes on her back, her purse, and $3,000. And she left with the clothes on her back, her purse, and $3,000.
50 00:02:54,860 00:02:59,410 - ♪ - ♪
51 00:02:59,490 00:03:01,460 - He hasn't heard from her since June 14, - He hasn't heard from her since June 14,
52 00:03:01,530 00:03:03,470 And it's now August 5. And it's now August 5.
53 00:03:06,500 00:03:08,760 Lonnie says they had gotten in an argument. Lonnie says they had gotten in an argument.
54 00:03:08,830 00:03:10,350 She had left him in the past She had left him in the past
55 00:03:10,430 00:03:11,680 From other fights that they had had, From other fights that they had had,
56 00:03:11,690 00:03:14,690 But she'd always come back. But she'd always come back.
57 00:03:14,770 00:03:16,520 - At this point, he was concerned because - At this point, he was concerned because
58 00:03:16,600 00:03:18,780 She hadn't returned in two months. She hadn't returned in two months.
59 00:03:21,180 00:03:22,980 - ♪ - ♪
60 00:03:23,010 00:03:24,650 - Narrator: Police begin checking hospital - Narrator: Police begin checking hospital
61 00:03:24,680 00:03:27,150 And morgue reports across the area. And morgue reports across the area.
62 00:03:27,190 00:03:29,700 They find dozens of possibilities. They find dozens of possibilities.
63 00:03:29,780 00:03:33,780 But none match danna, which leaves them wondering. But none match danna, which leaves them wondering.
64 00:03:33,860 00:03:35,700 - We needed to find out if there was any evidence - We needed to find out if there was any evidence
65 00:03:35,710 00:03:38,450 There was other things going on, There was other things going on,
66 00:03:38,530 00:03:40,880 Or if she was simply missing on her own accord. Or if she was simply missing on her own accord.
67 00:03:43,200 00:03:46,710 - ♪ - ♪
68 00:03:46,720 00:03:50,550 - Narrator: Hoping to generate some leads, the team presses on, - Narrator: Hoping to generate some leads, the team presses on,
69 00:03:50,560 00:03:55,680 Reaching out to danna's family to see what they might know. Reaching out to danna's family to see what they might know.
70 00:03:55,710 00:03:58,680 - But her family had not heard from her. - But her family had not heard from her.
71 00:03:58,720 00:04:01,640 - Steven: They had said it wasn't unusual that they didn't - Steven: They had said it wasn't unusual that they didn't
72 00:04:01,720 00:04:04,520 Hear from danna for extended periods of time Hear from danna for extended periods of time
73 00:04:04,600 00:04:07,190 Because she was isolated with lonnie Because she was isolated with lonnie
74 00:04:07,230 00:04:09,830 And not keeping good contact with the family. And not keeping good contact with the family.
75 00:04:12,080 00:04:15,370 - Narrator: That gets the attention of police. - Narrator: That gets the attention of police.
76 00:04:15,400 00:04:17,700 They want to know more about danna They want to know more about danna
77 00:04:17,780 00:04:20,420 And her relationship with lonnie. And her relationship with lonnie.
78 00:04:20,500 00:04:23,970 - I was about nine years old when my aunt went missing. - I was about nine years old when my aunt went missing.
79 00:04:26,240 00:04:28,840 I remember being little and thinking, I remember being little and thinking,
80 00:04:28,910 00:04:32,550 "ah, my aunt danna is so cool." "ah, my aunt danna is so cool."
81 00:04:32,580 00:04:34,560 My aunt danna seemed like a movie star. My aunt danna seemed like a movie star.
82 00:04:37,180 00:04:40,680 She was just as beautiful on the inside She was just as beautiful on the inside
83 00:04:40,760 00:04:42,070 As she was on the outside. As she was on the outside.
84 00:04:43,930 00:04:45,740 Really soft spoken and sweet. Really soft spoken and sweet.
85 00:04:48,430 00:04:50,070 - Narrator: Danna first met lonnie kerley - Narrator: Danna first met lonnie kerley
86 00:04:50,140 00:04:52,940 When she was 21 years old. When she was 21 years old.
87 00:04:52,960 00:04:54,900 - Lonnie was a little rebellious. - Lonnie was a little rebellious.
88 00:04:54,940 00:04:57,700 And he had nice hair. And he had nice hair.
89 00:04:57,780 00:04:59,960 And he exuded a lot of confidence. And he exuded a lot of confidence.
90 00:05:00,040 00:05:02,550 And I think that was fun to her. And I think that was fun to her.
91 00:05:03,800 00:05:05,040 Everyone was attracted to her, Everyone was attracted to her,
92 00:05:05,120 00:05:09,040 So it wasn't a surprise that he was. So it wasn't a surprise that he was.
93 00:05:09,120 00:05:11,970 When my aunt and lonnie first met, When my aunt and lonnie first met,
94 00:05:12,050 00:05:15,050 He definitely spoiled her. He definitely spoiled her.
95 00:05:15,130 00:05:18,090 They seemed to connect well. They seemed like best friends. They seemed to connect well. They seemed like best friends.
96 00:05:18,170 00:05:22,830 I guess, from there, they fell in love. I guess, from there, they fell in love.
97 00:05:25,820 00:05:27,990 - Narrator: Four years into their relationship, - Narrator: Four years into their relationship,
98 00:05:28,070 00:05:30,320 Danna and lonnie have a daughter. Danna and lonnie have a daughter.
99 00:05:30,330 00:05:32,900 - Brittany: She had this natural maternal instinct. - Brittany: She had this natural maternal instinct.
100 00:05:32,980 00:05:36,500 And having a daughter of her own felt like it was her calling. And having a daughter of her own felt like it was her calling.
101 00:05:38,820 00:05:42,290 - Narrator: But according to danna's family, as time went on, - Narrator: But according to danna's family, as time went on,
102 00:05:42,360 00:05:45,960 They saw danna less and less. They saw danna less and less.
103 00:05:46,030 00:05:49,580 - There was very little contact outside of their - There was very little contact outside of their
104 00:05:49,660 00:05:53,090 Tight family of lonnie, danna, and their daughter. Tight family of lonnie, danna, and their daughter.
105 00:05:53,160 00:05:55,800 - Narrator: When they do occasionally see danna, - Narrator: When they do occasionally see danna,
106 00:05:55,830 00:06:00,140 She hints that her relationship with lonnie has become strained. She hints that her relationship with lonnie has become strained.
107 00:06:00,210 00:06:01,690 - He was extremely controlling, - He was extremely controlling,
108 00:06:01,770 00:06:03,690 Called her continuously from work, Called her continuously from work,
109 00:06:03,770 00:06:05,940 Always wanted to know where her whereabouts were. Always wanted to know where her whereabouts were.
110 00:06:08,030 00:06:09,980 - Lonnie got really upset if she ever left, - Lonnie got really upset if she ever left,
111 00:06:10,010 00:06:11,530 And he'd check her mileage. And he'd check her mileage.
112 00:06:13,230 00:06:16,870 He started becoming just this mean guy. He started becoming just this mean guy.
113 00:06:16,950 00:06:21,160 - Narrator: Eventually, danna's family witnesses first hand - Narrator: Eventually, danna's family witnesses first hand
114 00:06:21,230 00:06:23,950 How bad things have gotten for her. How bad things have gotten for her.
115 00:06:24,030 00:06:26,830 - One time, she came knocking at our door - One time, she came knocking at our door
116 00:06:26,910 00:06:31,840 And asked if she could stay, because she was, um-- And asked if she could stay, because she was, um--
117 00:06:31,910 00:06:35,170 She was being physically abused. She was being physically abused.
118 00:06:35,250 00:06:38,800 She did have marks on her body. She did have marks on her body.
119 00:06:38,880 00:06:40,730 It wasn't just her arms. It wasn't just her arms.
120 00:06:40,800 00:06:44,230 She had marks on her face and on her stomach. She had marks on her face and on her stomach.
121 00:06:46,930 00:06:49,740 - She tried to leave him on numerous occasions. - She tried to leave him on numerous occasions.
122 00:06:49,810 00:06:53,650 - Narrator: In fact, police learn that eight months earlier, - Narrator: In fact, police learn that eight months earlier,
123 00:06:53,730 00:06:56,860 Danna actually reported lonnie to the police, Danna actually reported lonnie to the police,
124 00:06:56,900 00:07:00,740 But ultimately declined to press charges. But ultimately declined to press charges.
125 00:07:00,750 00:07:02,540 - But he'd always gotten her back. - But he'd always gotten her back.
126 00:07:05,280 00:07:08,080 - Narrator: Could lonnie's alleged abuse have escalated, - Narrator: Could lonnie's alleged abuse have escalated,
127 00:07:08,090 00:07:10,000 Possibly to murder? Possibly to murder?
128 00:07:10,070 00:07:14,670 - ♪ - ♪
129 00:07:14,750 00:07:17,930 - Narrator: Police pay lonnie another visit. - Narrator: Police pay lonnie another visit.
130 00:07:18,010 00:07:20,720 - Krishna: Lonnie, his story was still she left that morning. - Krishna: Lonnie, his story was still she left that morning.
131 00:07:20,790 00:07:24,550 She walked away with just the clothes on her back. She walked away with just the clothes on her back.
132 00:07:24,590 00:07:27,060 - Narrator: This time, investigators also talk to - Narrator: This time, investigators also talk to
133 00:07:27,130 00:07:29,890 Danna and lonnie's younger daughter. Danna and lonnie's younger daughter.
134 00:07:29,930 00:07:32,400 - She states that her mom left and--and said goodbye, - She states that her mom left and--and said goodbye,
135 00:07:32,430 00:07:35,690 And said she loved her, and that she would return. And said she loved her, and that she would return.
136 00:07:35,770 00:07:36,950 - Narrator: And lonnie tells police - Narrator: And lonnie tells police
137 00:07:37,030 00:07:39,070 If they still don't believe him, If they still don't believe him,
138 00:07:39,100 00:07:42,080 There's another witness who can verify his account. There's another witness who can verify his account.
139 00:07:43,290 00:07:45,290 - Bill: On June 14, danna left. - Bill: On June 14, danna left.
140 00:07:45,370 00:07:46,960 Lonnie needs to go to work. Lonnie needs to go to work.
141 00:07:47,040 00:07:49,290 And so he called his parents to come over And so he called his parents to come over
142 00:07:49,300 00:07:52,050 To help with his daughter to get her to school. To help with his daughter to get her to school.
143 00:07:56,160 00:07:59,210 - Narrator: Police immediately speak to lonnie's mother. - Narrator: Police immediately speak to lonnie's mother.
144 00:07:59,290 00:08:02,760 And she confirms she was there that morning. And she confirms she was there that morning.
145 00:08:02,790 00:08:04,970 - Bill: She said that she spoke to danna. - Bill: She said that she spoke to danna.
146 00:08:04,980 00:08:07,140 She verified that danna was upset She verified that danna was upset
147 00:08:07,150 00:08:11,810 And that she left the residence on her own accord on foot. And that she left the residence on her own accord on foot.
148 00:08:11,820 00:08:15,100 Helped to substantiate lonnie's story. Helped to substantiate lonnie's story.
149 00:08:15,180 00:08:18,400 - Narrator: Then lonnie's mother drops a bombshell. - Narrator: Then lonnie's mother drops a bombshell.
150 00:08:18,480 00:08:22,610 - Lonnie's mother said that danna, she suspected, - Lonnie's mother said that danna, she suspected,
151 00:08:22,650 00:08:23,910 Was having an affair. Was having an affair.
152 00:08:26,500 00:08:29,120 - Narrator: Was danna unhappy enough to leave behind - Narrator: Was danna unhappy enough to leave behind
153 00:08:29,200 00:08:31,910 Her husband and child for another man? Her husband and child for another man?
154 00:08:31,990 00:08:36,170 - ♪ - ♪
155 00:08:36,180 00:08:38,800 - There's no way that she wouldn't have told someone - There's no way that she wouldn't have told someone
156 00:08:38,870 00:08:40,460 Where she was. Where she was.
157 00:08:40,500 00:08:44,130 There were absolutely no scenarios that would keep her There were absolutely no scenarios that would keep her
158 00:08:44,210 00:08:45,800 Away from her daughter. Away from her daughter.
159 00:08:45,880 00:08:48,350 - Steven: We spoke to friends and family. - Steven: We spoke to friends and family.
160 00:08:48,360 00:08:51,850 We asked them specifically about an affair. We asked them specifically about an affair.
161 00:08:51,860 00:08:53,690 They denied any affair. They denied any affair.
162 00:08:56,030 00:08:58,480 - Narrator: It's another dead end. - Narrator: It's another dead end.
163 00:08:58,520 00:09:03,200 As weeks and months go by, there's still no sign of danna. As weeks and months go by, there's still no sign of danna.
164 00:09:03,280 00:09:06,280 For danna's family, each day without answers For danna's family, each day without answers
165 00:09:06,360 00:09:09,200 Is an emotional roller coaster. Is an emotional roller coaster.
166 00:09:09,210 00:09:12,000 - Brittany: We tried to think positively, - Brittany: We tried to think positively,
167 00:09:12,070 00:09:14,040 Even though in the back of everyone's mind, Even though in the back of everyone's mind,
168 00:09:14,050 00:09:16,840 We knew that it might not be a good outcome. We knew that it might not be a good outcome.
169 00:09:20,410 00:09:22,340 - Narrator: The family can't shake their suspicions - Narrator: The family can't shake their suspicions
170 00:09:22,420 00:09:24,840 About lonnie. About lonnie.
171 00:09:24,920 00:09:29,060 - Brittany: My mother and my aunt were very adamant about - Brittany: My mother and my aunt were very adamant about
172 00:09:29,140 00:09:31,890 Saying that he had done something to her. Saying that he had done something to her.
173 00:09:31,900 00:09:34,520 - Narrator: Without concrete evidence against lonnie, - Narrator: Without concrete evidence against lonnie,
174 00:09:34,550 00:09:37,810 Investigators' hands are tied. Investigators' hands are tied.
175 00:09:37,890 00:09:42,360 - Steven: Because there was no new evidence, the case stalled. - Steven: Because there was no new evidence, the case stalled.
176 00:09:42,440 00:09:45,530 - Narrator: Danna's family never gives up hope. - Narrator: Danna's family never gives up hope.
177 00:09:45,610 00:09:50,030 - My family was very adamant about getting updates. - My family was very adamant about getting updates.
178 00:09:50,070 00:09:52,040 And there just-- there weren't any. And there just-- there weren't any.
179 00:09:53,160 00:09:55,800 There's so many questions unanswered. There's so many questions unanswered.
180 00:09:58,120 00:09:59,930 - ♪ - ♪
181 00:10:00,000 00:10:03,250 - Narrator: As the years pass, life moves on. - Narrator: As the years pass, life moves on.
182 00:10:03,270 00:10:06,170 Lonnie kerley continues raising his daughter Lonnie kerley continues raising his daughter
183 00:10:06,250 00:10:08,890 And begins dating again. And begins dating again.
184 00:10:08,920 00:10:11,890 - I met lonnie in 1997. - I met lonnie in 1997.
185 00:10:11,920 00:10:14,390 I gave him my number, and he started calling me. I gave him my number, and he started calling me.
186 00:10:14,470 00:10:15,890 He would leave messages. He would leave messages.
187 00:10:15,970 00:10:17,530 You know, "hey, I'm thinking of you." You know, "hey, I'm thinking of you."
188 00:10:18,950 00:10:21,030 I loved the attention. Who wouldn't? I loved the attention. Who wouldn't?
189 00:10:23,100 00:10:25,400 There were many times that I'd asked lonnie There were many times that I'd asked lonnie
190 00:10:25,480 00:10:28,400 About his daughter's mother. About his daughter's mother.
191 00:10:28,480 00:10:32,250 And, um, he always just said that she had left. And, um, he always just said that she had left.
192 00:10:34,450 00:10:36,200 - Steve: Lonnie also told his daughter - Steve: Lonnie also told his daughter
193 00:10:36,280 00:10:38,370 That she wasn't coming back. That she wasn't coming back.
194 00:10:38,450 00:10:41,470 - Narrator: Laura, lonnie, and his daughter settle - Narrator: Laura, lonnie, and his daughter settle
195 00:10:41,540 00:10:43,260 In to domestic life together. In to domestic life together.
196 00:10:46,050 00:10:48,260 - ♪ - ♪
197 00:10:48,330 00:10:51,300 - Narrator: Eleven years go by with no new leads - Narrator: Eleven years go by with no new leads
198 00:10:51,310 00:10:56,270 In danna's case...Until 2007. In danna's case...Until 2007.
199 00:10:56,340 00:10:59,600 - What ends up happening is fairfield pd decides to take - What ends up happening is fairfield pd decides to take
200 00:10:59,680 00:11:03,650 A new, fresh look at old missing person cases. A new, fresh look at old missing person cases.
201 00:11:03,660 00:11:07,320 - Narrator: It's just what the case needs for the twisted truth - Narrator: It's just what the case needs for the twisted truth
202 00:11:07,330 00:11:10,910 About what really happened to danna to come into the light. About what really happened to danna to come into the light.
203 00:11:12,670 00:11:13,950 Coming up-- Coming up--
204 00:11:13,990 00:11:17,080 - I noticed a depression in the lawn. - I noticed a depression in the lawn.
205 00:11:17,160 00:11:19,170 It made me suspicious. It made me suspicious.
206 00:11:19,250 00:11:22,130 - Narrator: The search for danna dever intensifies. - Narrator: The search for danna dever intensifies.
207 00:11:22,200 00:11:25,250 - You have a completely naked body that's decomposed. - You have a completely naked body that's decomposed.
208 00:11:25,330 00:11:26,960 - We believe there's foul play. - We believe there's foul play.
209 00:11:27,000 00:11:30,470 - Narrator: And the path will lead police underground. - Narrator: And the path will lead police underground.
210 00:11:30,500 00:11:33,350 - We start asking questions about a body being dumped. - We start asking questions about a body being dumped.
211 00:11:33,430 00:11:36,640 - We were ready and willing to do whatever it took - We were ready and willing to do whatever it took
212 00:11:36,720 00:11:38,020 For justice to be served. For justice to be served.
213 00:11:39,440 00:11:41,810 - [lid creaking] - [lid creaking]
214 00:11:41,850 00:11:45,030 - ♪ - ♪
215 00:11:55,530 00:11:59,870 - Narrator: In 2007, fairfield pd starts assigning manpower - Narrator: In 2007, fairfield pd starts assigning manpower
216 00:11:59,880 00:12:02,170 To some of its cold cases, To some of its cold cases,
217 00:12:02,200 00:12:07,550 Including the disappearance of danna dever 11 years earlier. Including the disappearance of danna dever 11 years earlier.
218 00:12:07,630 00:12:10,550 - In 2007, I was a detective for - In 2007, I was a detective for
219 00:12:10,560 00:12:13,680 The fairfield, california, police department. The fairfield, california, police department.
220 00:12:13,750 00:12:16,180 I decided to take another look to see if we can breathe I decided to take another look to see if we can breathe
221 00:12:16,260 00:12:18,820 Some life into the danna dever investigation. Some life into the danna dever investigation.
222 00:12:21,570 00:12:23,850 I spoke to danna's family. I spoke to danna's family.
223 00:12:23,930 00:12:27,730 They expressed concern that she remained missing. They expressed concern that she remained missing.
224 00:12:27,740 00:12:30,410 - Narrator: Her family is convinced more than ever - Narrator: Her family is convinced more than ever
225 00:12:30,490 00:12:33,360 That her husband, lonnie, had something to do That her husband, lonnie, had something to do
226 00:12:33,440 00:12:34,910 With danna's disappearance. With danna's disappearance.
227 00:12:34,920 00:12:38,660 And detective trojanowski has to agree. And detective trojanowski has to agree.
228 00:12:38,740 00:12:42,550 - Lonnie and danna had a very volatile relationship. - Lonnie and danna had a very volatile relationship.
229 00:12:44,330 00:12:48,180 In my mind, at that point, lonnie was a person of interest. In my mind, at that point, lonnie was a person of interest.
230 00:12:51,460 00:12:54,340 She had not been seen. She had not used credit cards. She had not been seen. She had not used credit cards.
231 00:12:54,420 00:12:58,390 All the indicators were that she was not alive. All the indicators were that she was not alive.
232 00:12:58,460 00:13:02,350 - Narrator: With that in mind, detective trojanowski picks up - Narrator: With that in mind, detective trojanowski picks up
233 00:13:02,430 00:13:04,890 Where the original detectives left off. Where the original detectives left off.
234 00:13:04,930 00:13:07,230 - I recanvassed the neighborhood around - I recanvassed the neighborhood around
235 00:13:07,310 00:13:11,900 The residence where lonnie and danna had resided. The residence where lonnie and danna had resided.
236 00:13:11,980 00:13:13,610 While speaking to one of the neighbors, While speaking to one of the neighbors,
237 00:13:13,620 00:13:17,700 I was advised that about the time of danna's disappearance I was advised that about the time of danna's disappearance
238 00:13:17,780 00:13:22,580 That there was a infestation of flies in the area That there was a infestation of flies in the area
239 00:13:22,660 00:13:24,380 Directly in front of the house. Directly in front of the house.
240 00:13:26,950 00:13:29,540 It made me think that there was a possibility It made me think that there was a possibility
241 00:13:29,620 00:13:31,880 That lonnie had killed danna That lonnie had killed danna
242 00:13:31,960 00:13:35,430 And that he had buried her somewhere on the property. And that he had buried her somewhere on the property.
243 00:13:37,460 00:13:40,430 I contacted the new owners of the residence I contacted the new owners of the residence
244 00:13:40,510 00:13:44,650 And got their permission to check the property. And got their permission to check the property.
245 00:13:44,730 00:13:47,480 I noticed a depression in the lawn, I noticed a depression in the lawn,
246 00:13:47,490 00:13:50,270 Which was somewhat out of place. Which was somewhat out of place.
247 00:13:50,350 00:13:53,070 I wondered to myself, "did someone, uh, I wondered to myself, "did someone, uh,
248 00:13:53,140 00:13:54,740 Bury something here?" Bury something here?"
249 00:13:56,520 00:13:58,960 It...Made me suspicious. It...Made me suspicious.
250 00:14:01,030 00:14:03,450 - Narrator: Detective trojanowski gets permission - Narrator: Detective trojanowski gets permission
251 00:14:03,490 00:14:05,660 To dig in the backyard of the house To dig in the backyard of the house
252 00:14:05,670 00:14:09,330 Where lonnie and danna once lived. Where lonnie and danna once lived.
253 00:14:09,340 00:14:13,350 - They dug approximately 4 feet down into the ground. - They dug approximately 4 feet down into the ground.
254 00:14:13,420 00:14:15,220 They hit a hard object. They hit a hard object.
255 00:14:16,760 00:14:18,630 They began to dig around that object They began to dig around that object
256 00:14:18,710 00:14:22,310 And discovered that it was a large suitcase. And discovered that it was a large suitcase.
257 00:14:25,180 00:14:28,600 There was a smell of decomposition There was a smell of decomposition
258 00:14:28,680 00:14:30,450 Emanating from the suitcase. Emanating from the suitcase.
259 00:14:32,390 00:14:34,620 And...That was not good. And...That was not good.
260 00:14:37,040 00:14:40,360 I was anxious thinking that we may have discovered danna's body I was anxious thinking that we may have discovered danna's body
261 00:14:40,380 00:14:41,620 In the ground. In the ground.
262 00:14:43,880 00:14:47,330 - Narrator: Investigators carefully pop open the suitcase. - Narrator: Investigators carefully pop open the suitcase.
263 00:14:47,410 00:14:50,880 - ♪ - ♪
264 00:14:50,960 00:14:53,260 - Inside the suitcase was the remains... - Inside the suitcase was the remains...
265 00:14:55,870 00:14:58,560 Of a very large dog. Of a very large dog.
266 00:15:00,880 00:15:03,650 It was somewhat disappointing that we hadn't located danna. It was somewhat disappointing that we hadn't located danna.
267 00:15:05,050 00:15:06,730 - Narrator: But detective trojanowski - Narrator: But detective trojanowski
268 00:15:06,810 00:15:09,690 Isn't about to give up. Isn't about to give up.
269 00:15:09,720 00:15:12,980 - Lonnie is still in our crosshairs at that point. - Lonnie is still in our crosshairs at that point.
270 00:15:13,060 00:15:16,360 - Narrator: The cold case team decides to take another look - Narrator: The cold case team decides to take another look
271 00:15:16,440 00:15:19,910 At unidentified women found dead around the time At unidentified women found dead around the time
272 00:15:19,990 00:15:23,370 Danna disappeared in 1996. Danna disappeared in 1996.
273 00:15:23,400 00:15:25,870 One case jumps out at them. One case jumps out at them.
274 00:15:25,950 00:15:29,510 The victim is known as jane doe #7. The victim is known as jane doe #7.
275 00:15:32,410 00:15:33,590 - ♪ - ♪
276 00:15:33,670 00:15:37,380 - Narrator: Just a month after danna dever's disappeared, - Narrator: Just a month after danna dever's disappeared,
277 00:15:37,420 00:15:39,770 A heat wave was baking the landscape A heat wave was baking the landscape
278 00:15:39,840 00:15:42,730 Of nearby rio vista, california. Of nearby rio vista, california.
279 00:15:44,440 00:15:45,720 - Bill: It's very hot out there. - Bill: It's very hot out there.
280 00:15:45,760 00:15:48,890 Anywhere from 90 to 100 degrees is the normal temperature. Anywhere from 90 to 100 degrees is the normal temperature.
281 00:15:48,930 00:15:51,940 - Narrator: Two ranch hands on a local farm were in a field - Narrator: Two ranch hands on a local farm were in a field
282 00:15:51,950 00:15:54,610 Chasing coyotes away from the sheep. Chasing coyotes away from the sheep.
283 00:15:54,690 00:15:58,900 - ♪ - ♪
284 00:15:58,980 00:16:00,790 - Bill: They come across a green blanket. - Bill: They come across a green blanket.
285 00:16:00,860 00:16:07,410 - ♪ - ♪
286 00:16:07,450 00:16:08,550 - Bill: From underneath the blanket, - Bill: From underneath the blanket,
287 00:16:08,550 00:16:10,540 Coming out the bottom of it, is what appears to be Coming out the bottom of it, is what appears to be
288 00:16:10,610 00:16:12,750 A skeletonized, uh, legs. A skeletonized, uh, legs.
289 00:16:12,780 00:16:17,880 - ♪ - ♪
290 00:16:17,960 00:16:20,090 - Narrator: The shocked ranch hands raced to call - Narrator: The shocked ranch hands raced to call
291 00:16:20,120 00:16:22,590 Solano county police. Solano county police.
292 00:16:22,630 00:16:25,590 - ♪ - ♪
293 00:16:25,630 00:16:27,650 - Narrator: Investigators quickly responded - Narrator: Investigators quickly responded
294 00:16:27,720 00:16:29,820 And took in the grisly scene. And took in the grisly scene.
295 00:16:29,890 00:16:34,100 - ♪ - ♪
296 00:16:34,180 00:16:36,820 - Narrator: They gingerly pulled the blanket off the body. - Narrator: They gingerly pulled the blanket off the body.
297 00:16:36,900 00:16:40,740 - ♪ - ♪
298 00:16:40,810 00:16:42,740 - The body was completely skeletonized. - The body was completely skeletonized.
299 00:16:42,810 00:16:44,910 - ♪ - ♪
300 00:16:44,980 00:16:47,620 - Krishna: The body was devoid of clothing. - Krishna: The body was devoid of clothing.
301 00:16:47,650 00:16:51,580 You have a completely naked body that's decomposed to the point You have a completely naked body that's decomposed to the point
302 00:16:51,660 00:16:54,120 Where there couldn't be an identification. Where there couldn't be an identification.
303 00:16:54,200 00:16:56,500 - Bill: There's no way to tell if it's male or female. - Bill: There's no way to tell if it's male or female.
304 00:16:56,510 00:16:57,790 We can assume it's an adult, We can assume it's an adult,
305 00:16:57,870 00:16:59,460 But there's no way to really know. But there's no way to really know.
306 00:16:59,500 00:17:00,850 Everything's just a mystery. Everything's just a mystery.
307 00:17:03,690 00:17:06,510 - Narrator: The crime scene doesn't offer up any clues - Narrator: The crime scene doesn't offer up any clues
308 00:17:06,520 00:17:09,760 As to who the victim might be. As to who the victim might be.
309 00:17:09,840 00:17:12,850 - Surprising is that there's not a stitch of clothing found. - Surprising is that there's not a stitch of clothing found.
310 00:17:12,860 00:17:15,940 There is not one item of jewelry. There is not one item of jewelry.
311 00:17:16,010 00:17:18,530 - No id, no keys, no car nearby. - No id, no keys, no car nearby.
312 00:17:18,610 00:17:22,860 - ♪ - ♪
313 00:17:22,870 00:17:24,490 - Narrator: Investigators arrived - Narrator: Investigators arrived
314 00:17:24,520 00:17:27,030 At an unsettling conclusion. At an unsettling conclusion.
315 00:17:27,040 00:17:28,990 - Bill: The body had to be placed there on the ground - Bill: The body had to be placed there on the ground
316 00:17:29,030 00:17:32,160 By somebody, nude. By somebody, nude.
317 00:17:32,240 00:17:34,050 - It was clearly very camouflaged - It was clearly very camouflaged
318 00:17:34,120 00:17:37,720 In this high vegetation out there. In this high vegetation out there.
319 00:17:37,790 00:17:39,890 - Bill: Everything points to this body - Bill: Everything points to this body
320 00:17:39,960 00:17:41,800 Being a victim of murder. Being a victim of murder.
321 00:17:44,130 00:17:50,680 - ♪ - ♪
322 00:17:50,710 00:17:55,140 - Narrator: Now, 11 years later, the cold case team wonders - Narrator: Now, 11 years later, the cold case team wonders
323 00:17:55,220 00:17:59,020 Could jane doe #7 be danna dever. Could jane doe #7 be danna dever.
324 00:17:59,060 00:18:03,150 They uncover the autopsy report from 1996. They uncover the autopsy report from 1996.
325 00:18:03,230 00:18:05,860 - There were some similarities in height - There were some similarities in height
326 00:18:05,900 00:18:08,620 And statue from danna dever. And statue from danna dever.
327 00:18:11,110 00:18:13,490 - The body was approximately 5'7. - The body was approximately 5'7.
328 00:18:13,570 00:18:17,000 - It's a female between the ages of about 25 to 45. - It's a female between the ages of about 25 to 45.
329 00:18:17,070 00:18:19,080 - Narrator: And just like danna dever, - Narrator: And just like danna dever,
330 00:18:19,090 00:18:22,040 Jane doe #7 is a mother. Jane doe #7 is a mother.
331 00:18:22,120 00:18:24,260 The position of her pelvic bones tells them The position of her pelvic bones tells them
332 00:18:24,340 00:18:27,720 That she had at one time given birth. That she had at one time given birth.
333 00:18:27,790 00:18:30,720 Then they hit a roadblock. Then they hit a roadblock.
334 00:18:30,750 00:18:33,560 - Steven: It was determined that the body had been - Steven: It was determined that the body had been
335 00:18:33,630 00:18:36,270 In the elements for an extended period of time, In the elements for an extended period of time,
336 00:18:36,280 00:18:38,110 For some six months. For some six months.
337 00:18:38,190 00:18:40,060 Danna had only been missing, Danna had only been missing,
338 00:18:40,100 00:18:42,490 Uh, from her residence for six weeks. Uh, from her residence for six weeks.
339 00:18:44,360 00:18:47,950 - Narrator: It means jane doe #7 was already dead - Narrator: It means jane doe #7 was already dead
340 00:18:47,960 00:18:52,700 And her body dumped in a ditch before danna disappeared. And her body dumped in a ditch before danna disappeared.
341 00:18:52,780 00:18:55,750 It's yet another disappointing dead end. It's yet another disappointing dead end.
342 00:18:57,110 00:19:01,750 As their frustration mounts, so does their determination. As their frustration mounts, so does their determination.
343 00:19:01,790 00:19:03,880 Then, buried in the file, Then, buried in the file,
344 00:19:03,950 00:19:07,880 They uncover what could be a major new clue. They uncover what could be a major new clue.
345 00:19:07,960 00:19:11,090 - There had been a second autopsy done. - There had been a second autopsy done.
346 00:19:11,130 00:19:15,150 - What essentially happens in 1998 is that the bones - What essentially happens in 1998 is that the bones
347 00:19:15,220 00:19:18,810 Of jane doe #7 are sent to an anthropologist Of jane doe #7 are sent to an anthropologist
348 00:19:18,820 00:19:20,190 At chico state university. At chico state university.
349 00:19:21,970 00:19:26,280 - Narrator: Now, 11 years later, detective trojanowski is stunned - Narrator: Now, 11 years later, detective trojanowski is stunned
350 00:19:26,310 00:19:29,080 By what he reads in the second autopsy report. By what he reads in the second autopsy report.
351 00:19:30,980 00:19:35,910 - The anthropologist, uh, discovered that the jane doe #7 - The anthropologist, uh, discovered that the jane doe #7
352 00:19:35,990 00:19:38,670 Had not been in the elements for six months. Had not been in the elements for six months.
353 00:19:39,990 00:19:43,750 The jane doe #7 was probably in the elements The jane doe #7 was probably in the elements
354 00:19:43,830 00:19:47,300 For less than six weeks. For less than six weeks.
355 00:19:47,370 00:19:48,960 - Bodies decompose much faster - Bodies decompose much faster
356 00:19:49,040 00:19:51,350 During the summer in central california. During the summer in central california.
357 00:19:51,430 00:19:54,010 And so that state of decomposition can happen And so that state of decomposition can happen
358 00:19:54,020 00:19:56,230 In as little as two or three weeks. In as little as two or three weeks.
359 00:19:58,690 00:20:01,640 - Narrator: The revised timeframe of jane doe's death - Narrator: The revised timeframe of jane doe's death
360 00:20:01,680 00:20:05,870 Now fits within the window of when danna disappeared. Now fits within the window of when danna disappeared.
361 00:20:05,940 00:20:08,940 - And that ends up becoming the break in this case. - And that ends up becoming the break in this case.
362 00:20:09,020 00:20:11,110 - Narrator: If jane doe is danna dever, - Narrator: If jane doe is danna dever,
363 00:20:11,190 00:20:14,990 Her disappearance is now a homicide. Her disappearance is now a homicide.
364 00:20:15,030 00:20:18,990 But who would have wanted to kill this beloved young mother? But who would have wanted to kill this beloved young mother?
365 00:20:19,030 00:20:20,830 And why? And why?
366 00:20:20,860 00:20:22,920 - ♪ - ♪
367 00:20:31,300 00:20:34,390 - Narrator: Eleven years after young mother danna dever - Narrator: Eleven years after young mother danna dever
368 00:20:34,470 00:20:37,050 Vanished into thin air, Vanished into thin air,
369 00:20:37,070 00:20:41,140 Police believe they may have a lead in her cold case. Police believe they may have a lead in her cold case.
370 00:20:41,220 00:20:44,140 Could the body of an unidentified murder victim, Could the body of an unidentified murder victim,
371 00:20:44,220 00:20:48,020 Jane doe #7, be danna dever? Jane doe #7, be danna dever?
372 00:20:48,060 00:20:51,320 - Bill: The investigators now have something to go on. - Bill: The investigators now have something to go on.
373 00:20:51,400 00:20:54,250 There was, uh, some skin left on the right hand, There was, uh, some skin left on the right hand,
374 00:20:54,320 00:20:57,200 Specifically on the right thumb. Specifically on the right thumb.
375 00:20:57,230 00:21:00,040 We have this fingerprint that we were able to get We have this fingerprint that we were able to get
376 00:21:00,070 00:21:01,670 From the rehydrated skin. From the rehydrated skin.
377 00:21:04,950 00:21:06,210 - Steven: The right thumbprint - Steven: The right thumbprint
378 00:21:06,240 00:21:09,100 From danna dever driver's license From danna dever driver's license
379 00:21:09,170 00:21:13,770 Was compared to the print which was recovered from jane doe #7. Was compared to the print which was recovered from jane doe #7.
380 00:21:16,100 00:21:18,310 - And it's a match to danna dever. - And it's a match to danna dever.
381 00:21:19,270 00:21:20,350 Everybody's excited. Everybody's excited.
382 00:21:20,420 00:21:23,180 Nobody can believe it's actually solved as far as Nobody can believe it's actually solved as far as
383 00:21:23,260 00:21:25,650 Jane doe is now danna dever. Jane doe is now danna dever.
384 00:21:26,760 00:21:29,860 - Steven: It's bittersweet because it was the finality, - Steven: It's bittersweet because it was the finality,
385 00:21:29,930 00:21:33,700 Uh, that danna dever was no longer alive. Uh, that danna dever was no longer alive.
386 00:21:35,980 00:21:37,780 - Narrator: One mystery is solved. - Narrator: One mystery is solved.
387 00:21:37,790 00:21:40,790 But there's another one still waiting to be answered. But there's another one still waiting to be answered.
388 00:21:40,870 00:21:42,870 - We don't know how she died. - We don't know how she died.
389 00:21:42,950 00:21:44,790 We're hoping that the bones will tell us something. We're hoping that the bones will tell us something.
390 00:21:44,800 00:21:48,290 - ♪ - ♪
391 00:21:48,300 00:21:51,920 - There were fractures on several ribs that - There were fractures on several ribs that
392 00:21:51,960 00:21:54,310 Showed evidence of a healing fracture Showed evidence of a healing fracture
393 00:21:54,380 00:21:56,390 That would have occurred prior to death. That would have occurred prior to death.
394 00:21:58,300 00:22:01,390 In cases where you see multiple fractures that are in different In cases where you see multiple fractures that are in different
395 00:22:01,470 00:22:05,690 Stages of healing, this often indicates a pattern of abuse. Stages of healing, this often indicates a pattern of abuse.
396 00:22:07,850 00:22:11,440 - Also what he found were injuries or bone cracks - Also what he found were injuries or bone cracks
397 00:22:11,480 00:22:14,440 That happened during the time of death, That happened during the time of death,
398 00:22:14,520 00:22:18,330 Specifically a slight crack in her hyoid bone, uh, Specifically a slight crack in her hyoid bone, uh,
399 00:22:18,410 00:22:21,330 In the bone of her neck, which is huge in the sense In the bone of her neck, which is huge in the sense
400 00:22:21,410 00:22:26,750 That it's often related to strangulation. That it's often related to strangulation.
401 00:22:26,820 00:22:28,920 She died as a result of a beating. She died as a result of a beating.
402 00:22:32,090 00:22:35,260 - Steven: The sad reality was that danna dever - Steven: The sad reality was that danna dever
403 00:22:35,330 00:22:37,770 Was not only deceased, she had been murdered. Was not only deceased, she had been murdered.
404 00:22:40,550 00:22:42,470 - Narrator: Investigators are now faced with - Narrator: Investigators are now faced with
405 00:22:42,510 00:22:46,440 The heart-wrenching task of notifying danna dever's family. The heart-wrenching task of notifying danna dever's family.
406 00:22:48,600 00:22:49,700 - Bill: That part is painful. - Bill: That part is painful.
407 00:22:49,770 00:22:54,200 This family has been missing their daughter and sister This family has been missing their daughter and sister
408 00:22:54,280 00:22:56,940 For--for 11 years. For--for 11 years.
409 00:22:57,020 00:22:59,210 And how do you start that conversation? And how do you start that conversation?
410 00:22:59,280 00:23:00,410 It's hard. It's hard.
411 00:23:02,210 00:23:06,160 - When we found out that it was her... - When we found out that it was her...
412 00:23:06,240 00:23:08,010 It was... It was...
413 00:23:09,870 00:23:11,380 It was... It was...
414 00:23:11,460 00:23:16,210 - ♪ - ♪
415 00:23:16,220 00:23:18,380 - We almost wished that we didn't know. - We almost wished that we didn't know.
416 00:23:18,390 00:23:22,350 It just hurt just as bad to actually have the proof. It just hurt just as bad to actually have the proof.
417 00:23:24,310 00:23:26,400 - Narrator: The family is finally able to lay - Narrator: The family is finally able to lay
418 00:23:26,480 00:23:29,400 Danna dever's body to rest. Danna dever's body to rest.
419 00:23:29,480 00:23:31,900 - Brittany: Once they found out that it was my aunt, - Brittany: Once they found out that it was my aunt,
420 00:23:31,980 00:23:34,780 There was a tiny ceremony. There was a tiny ceremony.
421 00:23:35,890 00:23:37,580 - ♪ - ♪
422 00:23:37,650 00:23:41,860 - Narrator: Now detectives are on the hunt for her killer. - Narrator: Now detectives are on the hunt for her killer.
423 00:23:41,900 00:23:45,370 - We want to solve this case for danna dever's family. - We want to solve this case for danna dever's family.
424 00:23:45,440 00:23:48,200 - Narrator: Police believe lonnie kerley is likely - Narrator: Police believe lonnie kerley is likely
425 00:23:48,240 00:23:50,080 Their best suspect. Their best suspect.
426 00:23:50,090 00:23:53,250 But as they look at the file on jane doe #7, But as they look at the file on jane doe #7,
427 00:23:53,260 00:23:56,840 They discover there was another person of interest on the radar They discover there was another person of interest on the radar
428 00:23:56,910 00:23:58,310 11 years earlier. 11 years earlier.
429 00:24:01,510 00:24:04,890 - Bill: Eleven years ago, about eight days after jane doe's body - Bill: Eleven years ago, about eight days after jane doe's body
430 00:24:04,920 00:24:10,110 Was found, a letter came in to the district attorney's office, Was found, a letter came in to the district attorney's office,
431 00:24:10,190 00:24:11,470 Uh, victim witness unit. Uh, victim witness unit.
432 00:24:11,470 00:24:16,030 The letter itself is typed, but the envelope is handwritten. The letter itself is typed, but the envelope is handwritten.
433 00:24:18,530 00:24:21,290 - The letter talks about a guy named danny. - The letter talks about a guy named danny.
434 00:24:23,440 00:24:26,910 - Bill: Danny was basically running his mouth, - Bill: Danny was basically running his mouth,
435 00:24:26,940 00:24:29,090 Talking at a bar in dixon. Talking at a bar in dixon.
436 00:24:30,540 00:24:32,130 - Krishna: He talked about killing this woman - Krishna: He talked about killing this woman
437 00:24:32,210 00:24:34,470 That burned him... That burned him...
438 00:24:34,540 00:24:36,540 Rolling her up in a blanket, Rolling her up in a blanket,
439 00:24:36,620 00:24:39,470 Dumping her out on the way to rio vista. Dumping her out on the way to rio vista.
440 00:24:39,550 00:24:41,880 - Bill: The letter was descriptive enough that it was - Bill: The letter was descriptive enough that it was
441 00:24:41,960 00:24:44,190 Directly referencing jane doe #7. Directly referencing jane doe #7.
442 00:24:47,970 00:24:50,400 There's not a lot to go on as far as who danny is. There's not a lot to go on as far as who danny is.
443 00:24:52,560 00:24:54,980 - Narrator: Since the letter mentioned overhearing danny - Narrator: Since the letter mentioned overhearing danny
444 00:24:54,990 00:25:00,150 Brag at a bar, the investigators canvassed all the bars in dixon. Brag at a bar, the investigators canvassed all the bars in dixon.
445 00:25:00,160 00:25:04,500 - ♪ - ♪
446 00:25:04,570 00:25:07,630 - They couldn't find anybody that was named danny. - They couldn't find anybody that was named danny.
447 00:25:09,320 00:25:11,090 The letter just gets filed away. The letter just gets filed away.
448 00:25:13,340 00:25:17,510 - Narrator: Now, 11 years later, knowing that jane doe #7 - Narrator: Now, 11 years later, knowing that jane doe #7
449 00:25:17,590 00:25:19,920 Is actually danna dever, Is actually danna dever,
450 00:25:20,000 00:25:22,590 They take a second look at the letter. They take a second look at the letter.
451 00:25:22,670 00:25:24,350 - Bill: We look for everything. - Bill: We look for everything.
452 00:25:24,430 00:25:27,020 The letter and the envelope are examined for fingerprints. The letter and the envelope are examined for fingerprints.
453 00:25:27,100 00:25:29,510 - Unfortunately, there's no fingerprints - Unfortunately, there's no fingerprints
454 00:25:29,520 00:25:31,930 That could be lifted. That could be lifted.
455 00:25:32,010 00:25:34,530 - And danny seemed to be a ghost. - And danny seemed to be a ghost.
456 00:25:34,600 00:25:36,360 We couldn't track the letter writer. We couldn't track the letter writer.
457 00:25:36,440 00:25:38,980 And everything is just ruled out. And everything is just ruled out.
458 00:25:39,060 00:25:42,200 - Narrator: What remains is a nagging hunch. - Narrator: What remains is a nagging hunch.
459 00:25:42,280 00:25:45,110 - Bill: And so I believe that this letter was sent in - Bill: And so I believe that this letter was sent in
460 00:25:45,190 00:25:49,210 As a way to throw detectives off the trail. As a way to throw detectives off the trail.
461 00:25:49,290 00:25:52,160 - Krishna: This is completely a ruse to distract from - Krishna: This is completely a ruse to distract from
462 00:25:52,200 00:25:55,210 Who it really is that is responsible for Who it really is that is responsible for
463 00:25:55,290 00:25:56,920 The murder of danna. The murder of danna.
464 00:25:59,130 00:26:01,550 - Narrator: Coming up, an unlikely witness - Narrator: Coming up, an unlikely witness
465 00:26:01,560 00:26:03,670 Spurs the case forward. Spurs the case forward.
466 00:26:03,750 00:26:05,720 - I wanted to tell them everything. - I wanted to tell them everything.
467 00:26:05,730 00:26:08,390 And this was my time to do it. And this was my time to do it.
468 00:26:10,380 00:26:13,690 - Narrator: Police will need to exhume a body to catch a killer. - Narrator: Police will need to exhume a body to catch a killer.
469 00:26:14,810 00:26:17,570 - I don't wanna impose on the family. - I don't wanna impose on the family.
470 00:26:17,650 00:26:18,740 But at the same time, But at the same time,
471 00:26:18,810 00:26:21,490 I wanna get justice for her family. I wanna get justice for her family.
472 00:26:23,240 00:26:25,160 - He had to pay for what he did to my aunt. - He had to pay for what he did to my aunt.
473 00:26:27,660 00:26:30,210 - ♪ - ♪
474 00:26:39,840 00:26:41,670 - ♪ - ♪
475 00:26:41,750 00:26:43,930 - Narrator: Eleven years after she vanished, - Narrator: Eleven years after she vanished,
476 00:26:44,010 00:26:49,100 Danna dever is positively identified as jane doe #7, Danna dever is positively identified as jane doe #7,
477 00:26:49,180 00:26:51,720 A murder victim dumped in a ditch A murder victim dumped in a ditch
478 00:26:51,760 00:26:54,350 More than a decade earlier. More than a decade earlier.
479 00:26:54,420 00:26:58,730 Police and her family think her husband, lonnie, is the killer. Police and her family think her husband, lonnie, is the killer.
480 00:26:58,800 00:27:02,870 - We all knew in our heart that, um, lonnie was responsible. - We all knew in our heart that, um, lonnie was responsible.
481 00:27:05,450 00:27:08,950 - Narrator: His reaction to news of danna's murder does nothing - Narrator: His reaction to news of danna's murder does nothing
482 00:27:09,030 00:27:10,570 To change their minds. To change their minds.
483 00:27:10,650 00:27:12,700 - Bill: He just takes it in stride, uh, - Bill: He just takes it in stride, uh,
484 00:27:12,780 00:27:14,670 With controlled emotion. With controlled emotion.
485 00:27:15,780 00:27:17,910 And--and that's the mother of his child. And--and that's the mother of his child.
486 00:27:17,950 00:27:19,790 I expected more. I expected more.
487 00:27:19,800 00:27:22,750 - Narrator: With nothing linking him to danna's murder, - Narrator: With nothing linking him to danna's murder,
488 00:27:22,790 00:27:25,640 Investigators need to think out of the box. Investigators need to think out of the box.
489 00:27:27,880 00:27:29,760 - Bill: I have to figure out a way - Bill: I have to figure out a way
490 00:27:29,840 00:27:31,640 To either get him to admit to it To either get him to admit to it
491 00:27:31,720 00:27:35,150 Or find a way through other acquaintances. Or find a way through other acquaintances.
492 00:27:35,220 00:27:37,140 - Narrator: Knowing he abused danna, - Narrator: Knowing he abused danna,
493 00:27:37,150 00:27:38,930 They think he may have done the same thing They think he may have done the same thing
494 00:27:38,970 00:27:41,490 To his second wife, laura. To his second wife, laura.
495 00:27:41,560 00:27:43,530 She might be willing to talk to them. She might be willing to talk to them.
496 00:27:45,680 00:27:48,440 They question her one on one. They question her one on one.
497 00:27:48,520 00:27:52,160 - She doesn't want to talk a lot about what's going on. - She doesn't want to talk a lot about what's going on.
498 00:27:52,240 00:27:54,830 - Honestly, I was scared to answer to answer anything. - Honestly, I was scared to answer to answer anything.
499 00:27:54,910 00:27:57,830 - Narrator: Little by little she starts to open up. - Narrator: Little by little she starts to open up.
500 00:27:57,840 00:27:59,790 - She talked to the police officers about - She talked to the police officers about
501 00:27:59,870 00:28:01,790 A couple of things he said. A couple of things he said.
502 00:28:01,870 00:28:05,840 One was if a loved one were to kill somebody, um, One was if a loved one were to kill somebody, um,
503 00:28:05,920 00:28:07,390 Would you tell? Would you tell?
504 00:28:09,500 00:28:11,840 - Bill: We express our own fear for her because - Bill: We express our own fear for her because
505 00:28:11,850 00:28:14,430 Danna was determined to have been murdered. Danna was determined to have been murdered.
506 00:28:14,500 00:28:17,640 And that shocks laura. And that shocks laura.
507 00:28:17,670 00:28:20,480 - I wanted to tell them everything possible. - I wanted to tell them everything possible.
508 00:28:20,510 00:28:24,020 And this was my time to do it. And this was my time to do it.
509 00:28:24,030 00:28:26,450 I spilled my guts. I spilled my guts.
510 00:28:29,040 00:28:34,540 Lonnie mentally and emotionally abused me. Lonnie mentally and emotionally abused me.
511 00:28:34,620 00:28:38,540 - ♪ - ♪
512 00:28:38,550 00:28:41,550 - There was some physical abuse in there, - There was some physical abuse in there,
513 00:28:41,620 00:28:45,470 But not near as what he had done to danna. But not near as what he had done to danna.
514 00:28:48,040 00:28:52,890 You don't think emotional abuse is bad. You don't think emotional abuse is bad.
515 00:28:52,970 00:28:55,010 But it's--it's bad. But it's--it's bad.
516 00:28:55,050 00:28:58,180 - ♪ - ♪
517 00:28:58,260 00:29:00,690 - I--I was afraid he was gonna kill me. - I--I was afraid he was gonna kill me.
518 00:29:01,810 00:29:05,060 - The relationship fits this mold of an abuser, - The relationship fits this mold of an abuser,
519 00:29:05,070 00:29:06,910 Of a controlling husband. Of a controlling husband.
520 00:29:06,980 00:29:09,070 - Narrator: Laura's statements give investigators what - Narrator: Laura's statements give investigators what
521 00:29:09,080 00:29:14,080 They need to get a warrant to search lonnie's house. They need to get a warrant to search lonnie's house.
522 00:29:14,160 00:29:16,580 - Bill: One of the things I'm looking for is a typewriter, - Bill: One of the things I'm looking for is a typewriter,
523 00:29:16,660 00:29:17,920 'cause I wanna compare it to the, uh, 'cause I wanna compare it to the, uh,
524 00:29:17,990 00:29:19,250 Letter that was sent in in '96 Letter that was sent in in '96
525 00:29:19,330 00:29:21,540 To the district attorney's office. To the district attorney's office.
526 00:29:21,570 00:29:23,710 - [camera shutter click] - [camera shutter click]
527 00:29:23,740 00:29:25,710 - Bill: Laura kerley told me there's an old typewriter - Bill: Laura kerley told me there's an old typewriter
528 00:29:25,740 00:29:27,170 At the house. At the house.
529 00:29:27,240 00:29:31,050 The typewriter is missing... The typewriter is missing...
530 00:29:31,080 00:29:33,100 Which I was told, just days before Which I was told, just days before
531 00:29:33,180 00:29:35,550 I served the search warrant, was there. I served the search warrant, was there.
532 00:29:35,630 00:29:37,550 - [camera shutter clicks] - [camera shutter clicks]
533 00:29:37,630 00:29:40,610 - That just led me further to believe that lonnie was able - That just led me further to believe that lonnie was able
534 00:29:40,680 00:29:42,570 To get rid of the evidence that I was looking for. To get rid of the evidence that I was looking for.
535 00:29:45,110 00:29:46,850 - ♪ - ♪
536 00:29:46,930 00:29:49,230 - Narrator: Detective hornbrook is convinced - Narrator: Detective hornbrook is convinced
537 00:29:49,270 00:29:51,120 Lonnie murdered danna, Lonnie murdered danna,
538 00:29:51,190 00:29:55,530 But just doesn't have the physical evidence for an arrest. But just doesn't have the physical evidence for an arrest.
539 00:29:55,610 00:29:57,290 - We don't get anything hard back from the-- - We don't get anything hard back from the--
540 00:29:57,370 00:30:00,130 From the search warrant. We're really left with nothing. From the search warrant. We're really left with nothing.
541 00:30:00,200 00:30:02,790 Because you just can't find that hard piece of evidence, Because you just can't find that hard piece of evidence,
542 00:30:02,800 00:30:04,800 It's so disappointing. It's so disappointing.
543 00:30:04,870 00:30:08,080 Um, and you look and you go, "what did I miss?" Um, and you look and you go, "what did I miss?"
544 00:30:08,160 00:30:11,750 - Narrator: He refuses to give up and works the case - Narrator: He refuses to give up and works the case
545 00:30:11,830 00:30:15,800 For the next three years. For the next three years.
546 00:30:15,810 00:30:19,140 - You work on it so hard every day, uh, weekends, - You work on it so hard every day, uh, weekends,
547 00:30:19,220 00:30:22,150 Late to the evenings. Late to the evenings.
548 00:30:22,220 00:30:25,310 - It was a breath of fresh air to know that people cared. - It was a breath of fresh air to know that people cared.
549 00:30:25,320 00:30:28,900 People with skills and the power to do something about it. People with skills and the power to do something about it.
550 00:30:32,730 00:30:34,230 - Narrator: Then, 3 years later, - Narrator: Then, 3 years later,
551 00:30:34,310 00:30:36,780 14 years after danna vanished, 14 years after danna vanished,
552 00:30:36,860 00:30:40,170 The investigation gets a powerful new ally. The investigation gets a powerful new ally.
553 00:30:40,240 00:30:41,990 - Krishna: I came in the case in 2010, - Krishna: I came in the case in 2010,
554 00:30:42,000 00:30:45,290 When our cold case investigators at the da's office When our cold case investigators at the da's office
555 00:30:45,320 00:30:48,330 Were really trying to solve this case. Were really trying to solve this case.
556 00:30:48,340 00:30:50,840 - When you meet the right district attorney that really - When you meet the right district attorney that really
557 00:30:50,920 00:30:55,840 Wants to press the case and sees this whole story for what it is, Wants to press the case and sees this whole story for what it is,
558 00:30:55,850 00:30:57,720 That was amazing. That was amazing.
559 00:30:59,020 00:31:00,890 - Narrator: They come up with an idea. - Narrator: They come up with an idea.
560 00:31:02,670 00:31:04,860 If they can find the car lonnie may have used If they can find the car lonnie may have used
561 00:31:04,930 00:31:07,310 To transport danna's body, To transport danna's body,
562 00:31:07,340 00:31:10,810 They might find dna evidence she was in the trunk, They might find dna evidence she was in the trunk,
563 00:31:10,890 00:31:14,700 Which could prove lonnie killed her. Which could prove lonnie killed her.
564 00:31:14,780 00:31:16,700 - They were able to track down the old chevy nova - They were able to track down the old chevy nova
565 00:31:16,780 00:31:19,860 That he drove back in '96. That he drove back in '96.
566 00:31:19,870 00:31:23,780 - Narrator: Csi combs the trunk of the nova... - Narrator: Csi combs the trunk of the nova...
567 00:31:23,860 00:31:26,630 Hoping to find even one fiber or hair. Hoping to find even one fiber or hair.
568 00:31:27,960 00:31:31,630 They make a shocking discovery. They make a shocking discovery.
569 00:31:31,700 00:31:35,300 - Krishna: They found pubic hair... - Krishna: They found pubic hair...
570 00:31:35,370 00:31:37,760 That we were able to send for dna. That we were able to send for dna.
571 00:31:40,420 00:31:43,150 It came back as a match for danna dever. It came back as a match for danna dever.
572 00:31:45,380 00:31:46,470 - Bill: It's not a question of whodunit, - Bill: It's not a question of whodunit,
573 00:31:46,550 00:31:49,230 It's really: Is there anybody else that could have? It's really: Is there anybody else that could have?
574 00:31:49,310 00:31:51,070 And the answer is no. And the answer is no.
575 00:31:51,150 00:31:53,980 Lonnie kerley is our killer. Lonnie kerley is our killer.
576 00:31:54,060 00:31:56,240 - Narrator: And the team will stop at nothing - Narrator: And the team will stop at nothing
577 00:31:56,320 00:31:58,990 To find justice for danna, To find justice for danna,
578 00:31:59,060 00:32:01,750 Even if it means raising her up Even if it means raising her up
579 00:32:01,820 00:32:03,830 So she can speak for herself. So she can speak for herself.
580 00:32:06,240 00:32:08,750 - ♪ - ♪
581 00:32:17,930 00:32:19,670 - ♪ - ♪
582 00:32:19,750 00:32:21,550 - Narrator: After finding danna's dna - Narrator: After finding danna's dna
583 00:32:21,580 00:32:23,890 In the trunk of lonnie's old car, In the trunk of lonnie's old car,
584 00:32:23,920 00:32:28,100 Investigators are certain he's their killer. Investigators are certain he's their killer.
585 00:32:28,110 00:32:31,600 - That tells me that lonnie killed danna, - That tells me that lonnie killed danna,
586 00:32:31,610 00:32:35,770 Moved her into the trunk, and disposed of her body. Moved her into the trunk, and disposed of her body.
587 00:32:35,780 00:32:37,940 - Narrator: But they'll need even more evidence if they want - Narrator: But they'll need even more evidence if they want
588 00:32:37,950 00:32:42,240 To convince a jury beyond a reasonable doubt. To convince a jury beyond a reasonable doubt.
589 00:32:42,310 00:32:44,910 - Krishna: I dive into the case and start reviewing everything - Krishna: I dive into the case and start reviewing everything
590 00:32:44,980 00:32:48,120 And see the history of domestic violence. And see the history of domestic violence.
591 00:32:48,130 00:32:51,870 Connecting all the dots was so important. Connecting all the dots was so important.
592 00:32:51,950 00:32:55,130 - Narrator: In her interview, lonnie's current wife, laura, - Narrator: In her interview, lonnie's current wife, laura,
593 00:32:55,210 00:32:58,970 Was very open about lonnie's abuse. Was very open about lonnie's abuse.
594 00:32:59,050 00:33:02,260 - I knew that I had to speak up. - I knew that I had to speak up.
595 00:33:02,330 00:33:04,630 - Narrator: Danna's circle of friends and family - Narrator: Danna's circle of friends and family
596 00:33:04,650 00:33:07,890 Also come forward with more heartbreaking stories Also come forward with more heartbreaking stories
597 00:33:07,960 00:33:09,770 Of how lonnie abused her. Of how lonnie abused her.
598 00:33:12,010 00:33:15,820 - Brittany: My mom would tell me that danna was being abused. - Brittany: My mom would tell me that danna was being abused.
599 00:33:15,900 00:33:17,110 He beat her up. He beat her up.
600 00:33:17,180 00:33:19,650 He had--he had kicked her in her stomach He had--he had kicked her in her stomach
601 00:33:19,660 00:33:22,830 While she was nine months pregnant. While she was nine months pregnant.
602 00:33:22,900 00:33:25,740 - One of the things that danna always told her friends was, - One of the things that danna always told her friends was,
603 00:33:25,820 00:33:27,830 "he said he'd dump me in a ditch so deep, "he said he'd dump me in a ditch so deep,
604 00:33:27,910 00:33:29,040 Nobody would find me." Nobody would find me."
605 00:33:30,320 00:33:32,050 It was extremely disturbing. It was extremely disturbing.
606 00:33:33,840 00:33:36,960 - Narrator: Prosecutor abrams also takes a hard look - Narrator: Prosecutor abrams also takes a hard look
607 00:33:36,990 00:33:41,130 At the circumstances behind the January 1996 incident At the circumstances behind the January 1996 incident
608 00:33:41,160 00:33:45,630 When danna reported lonnie to the police for abuse. When danna reported lonnie to the police for abuse.
609 00:33:45,710 00:33:48,020 That's when the case really gets a jolt. That's when the case really gets a jolt.
610 00:33:50,050 00:33:54,100 - On January 7, 1996, he gets arrested for this abuse. - On January 7, 1996, he gets arrested for this abuse.
611 00:33:54,180 00:33:55,850 - He would be facing three, five, ten years, - He would be facing three, five, ten years,
612 00:33:55,860 00:33:59,030 Depending on the type and level of abuse. Depending on the type and level of abuse.
613 00:33:59,110 00:34:00,870 - Krishna: That can affect his job, his home, - Krishna: That can affect his job, his home,
614 00:34:00,940 00:34:02,700 His family life, his child. His family life, his child.
615 00:34:02,780 00:34:05,650 - I can imagine what lonnie put her through, - I can imagine what lonnie put her through,
616 00:34:05,690 00:34:10,950 Telling her she better cancel it or he would do something to her. Telling her she better cancel it or he would do something to her.
617 00:34:11,030 00:34:14,300 I can imagine that danna was scared to death. I can imagine that danna was scared to death.
618 00:34:15,220 00:34:16,460 - ♪ - ♪
619 00:34:16,530 00:34:20,340 - Narrator: Less than a week after lonnie's arrest in 1996, - Narrator: Less than a week after lonnie's arrest in 1996,
620 00:34:20,410 00:34:23,670 Danna showed up at the police department. Danna showed up at the police department.
621 00:34:23,710 00:34:25,720 - Krishna: She says, "I want to dismiss charges. - Krishna: She says, "I want to dismiss charges.
622 00:34:25,730 00:34:26,580 He didn't do anything." He didn't do anything."
623 00:34:26,650 00:34:28,800 She didn't want him to go to jail. She didn't want him to go to jail.
624 00:34:28,880 00:34:30,140 - Narrator: Despite danna's attempt - Narrator: Despite danna's attempt
625 00:34:30,210 00:34:32,010 To take back the charges, To take back the charges,
626 00:34:32,050 00:34:35,070 The da proceeded with the domestic violence case The da proceeded with the domestic violence case
627 00:34:35,140 00:34:37,350 Against lonnie. Against lonnie.
628 00:34:37,430 00:34:40,690 - Danna dever is supposed to testify in that case. - Danna dever is supposed to testify in that case.
629 00:34:40,770 00:34:43,360 I think lonnie has a problem with danna not doing exactly I think lonnie has a problem with danna not doing exactly
630 00:34:43,430 00:34:44,580 What he wants her to do. What he wants her to do.
631 00:34:47,060 00:34:50,080 - Narrator: Prosecutor abrams now learns from danna's friends - Narrator: Prosecutor abrams now learns from danna's friends
632 00:34:50,160 00:34:53,740 All these years later that the looming court case All these years later that the looming court case
633 00:34:53,750 00:34:56,750 Rocked the marriage to its core. Rocked the marriage to its core.
634 00:34:56,760 00:34:59,920 - That could have some great ramifications on his life. - That could have some great ramifications on his life.
635 00:34:59,930 00:35:04,090 She keeps telling her friends, "he's so angry about court." She keeps telling her friends, "he's so angry about court."
636 00:35:04,100 00:35:06,930 He continues to escalate the violence. He continues to escalate the violence.
637 00:35:07,010 00:35:09,230 He did not want her to testify in this case. He did not want her to testify in this case.
638 00:35:10,920 00:35:12,390 - Narrator: Then, on June 19, - Narrator: Then, on June 19,
639 00:35:12,460 00:35:15,270 Lonnie appeared in court as scheduled. Lonnie appeared in court as scheduled.
640 00:35:15,280 00:35:18,690 But danna was a no show. But danna was a no show.
641 00:35:18,760 00:35:21,700 She had disappeared five days earlier. She had disappeared five days earlier.
642 00:35:24,310 00:35:26,280 - Bill: Because there was no one there to testify, - Bill: Because there was no one there to testify,
643 00:35:26,360 00:35:30,120 It was a felony domestic violence case that got reduced It was a felony domestic violence case that got reduced
644 00:35:30,200 00:35:31,410 To a misdemeanor. To a misdemeanor.
645 00:35:31,480 00:35:33,330 He accepted the plea bargain to be at one year probation. He accepted the plea bargain to be at one year probation.
646 00:35:34,820 00:35:36,130 - Narrator: Prosecutor abrams is convinced - Narrator: Prosecutor abrams is convinced
647 00:35:36,200 00:35:40,130 The timing of danna's murder is no accident. The timing of danna's murder is no accident.
648 00:35:40,210 00:35:43,920 - I think the court date was what really took it - I think the court date was what really took it
649 00:35:43,950 00:35:45,300 To a different level for him. To a different level for him.
650 00:35:45,380 00:35:47,880 Lonnie had a motive to kill her. Lonnie had a motive to kill her.
651 00:35:47,960 00:35:50,380 - Narrator: This is the last piece of the puzzle. - Narrator: This is the last piece of the puzzle.
652 00:35:50,460 00:35:52,090 - Krishna: We've got the hair in the car. - Krishna: We've got the hair in the car.
653 00:35:52,130 00:35:54,260 Now we've got all the history of abuse. Now we've got all the history of abuse.
654 00:35:54,300 00:35:58,430 - Narrator: Now, 14 years later, krishna abrams has enough to - Narrator: Now, 14 years later, krishna abrams has enough to
655 00:35:58,470 00:36:01,270 Issue a warrant for lonnie's arrest Issue a warrant for lonnie's arrest
656 00:36:01,350 00:36:03,820 For the murder of danna dever. For the murder of danna dever.
657 00:36:03,900 00:36:05,660 - Bill: We gather up a team, go to the house, - Bill: We gather up a team, go to the house,
658 00:36:05,730 00:36:07,240 And arrest lonnie kerley. And arrest lonnie kerley.
659 00:36:09,830 00:36:12,410 - ♪ - ♪
660 00:36:12,480 00:36:16,000 - Bill: It was fantastic for me to then tell danna's family - Bill: It was fantastic for me to then tell danna's family
661 00:36:16,080 00:36:18,450 That he was in custody. That he was in custody.
662 00:36:18,530 00:36:21,290 - It was just like finally, finally. - It was just like finally, finally.
663 00:36:21,320 00:36:23,180 He had to pay for what he did to my aunt. He had to pay for what he did to my aunt.
664 00:36:25,350 00:36:27,170 - ♪ - ♪
665 00:36:27,180 00:36:29,300 - Narrator: Investigators immediately put lonnie - Narrator: Investigators immediately put lonnie
666 00:36:29,330 00:36:32,350 In the interview room and grill him for hours. In the interview room and grill him for hours.
667 00:36:44,440 00:36:46,360 - Narrator: But he remains tight lipped. - Narrator: But he remains tight lipped.
668 00:36:46,440 00:36:48,480 - ♪ - ♪
669 00:36:48,520 00:36:51,280 - Krishna: We went to a grand jury and asked for an indictment - Krishna: We went to a grand jury and asked for an indictment
670 00:36:51,350 00:36:53,210 On second-degree murder. On second-degree murder.
671 00:36:53,280 00:36:55,820 There were a lot of hurdles and a lot of challenges. There were a lot of hurdles and a lot of challenges.
672 00:36:55,900 00:36:57,960 No eyewitness. No real physical evidence. No eyewitness. No real physical evidence.
673 00:36:59,860 00:37:01,330 - Narrator: One of the biggest challenges - Narrator: One of the biggest challenges
674 00:37:01,360 00:37:03,370 Is the first autopsy report, Is the first autopsy report,
675 00:37:03,380 00:37:07,220 Which ruled the cause of death as "undetermined." Which ruled the cause of death as "undetermined."
676 00:37:07,300 00:37:10,510 Abrams knows that she needs physical proof that danna Abrams knows that she needs physical proof that danna
677 00:37:10,580 00:37:16,390 Was murdered, or lonnie kerley will never see a day in prison. Was murdered, or lonnie kerley will never see a day in prison.
678 00:37:16,470 00:37:19,230 So she makes a difficult decision. So she makes a difficult decision.
679 00:37:19,310 00:37:21,980 - We wanted to exhume the remains of danna. - We wanted to exhume the remains of danna.
680 00:37:23,930 00:37:27,020 - Narrator: Authorities approach danna's family to let them know - Narrator: Authorities approach danna's family to let them know
681 00:37:27,100 00:37:30,320 They'd like to bring up her remains. They'd like to bring up her remains.
682 00:37:30,390 00:37:32,490 - Krishna: I didn't wanna impose on the family. - Krishna: I didn't wanna impose on the family.
683 00:37:32,560 00:37:34,030 But at the same time, But at the same time,
684 00:37:34,110 00:37:37,910 I wanna get justice for her family. I wanna get justice for her family.
685 00:37:37,920 00:37:41,240 - It feels disrespectful to her to have to dig her bones up. - It feels disrespectful to her to have to dig her bones up.
686 00:37:41,260 00:37:44,080 I mean, can't she just be at peace? I mean, can't she just be at peace?
687 00:37:44,090 00:37:46,210 It's like a punch in the gut. It's like a punch in the gut.
688 00:37:46,280 00:37:48,330 But they had to do that. But they had to do that.
689 00:37:48,410 00:37:53,270 And we were 1000% ready and willing to do And we were 1000% ready and willing to do
690 00:37:53,340 00:37:55,480 Whatever it took for justice to be served. Whatever it took for justice to be served.
691 00:37:58,350 00:38:00,510 - Narrator: It's a solemn day when police arrive at - Narrator: It's a solemn day when police arrive at
692 00:38:00,590 00:38:04,070 The cemetery to exhume danna dever's body. The cemetery to exhume danna dever's body.
693 00:38:06,110 00:38:08,520 Detectives know that they must find evidence Detectives know that they must find evidence
694 00:38:08,600 00:38:10,900 That danna was beaten and murdered That danna was beaten and murdered
695 00:38:10,930 00:38:13,230 In order to make sure lonnie kerley In order to make sure lonnie kerley
696 00:38:13,310 00:38:15,950 Goes to prison for life. Goes to prison for life.
697 00:38:15,960 00:38:18,570 - Danna finally had a headstone, because remember, - Danna finally had a headstone, because remember,
698 00:38:18,650 00:38:20,960 She was a jane doe 7 for so long. She was a jane doe 7 for so long.
699 00:38:23,370 00:38:25,410 - Brittany: The exhumation of my aunt's remains, - Brittany: The exhumation of my aunt's remains,
700 00:38:25,450 00:38:27,250 It was a difficult time. It was a difficult time.
701 00:38:27,330 00:38:29,920 But for a long time, we felt very powerless. But for a long time, we felt very powerless.
702 00:38:29,990 00:38:33,250 So we were ready to do, um, whatever. So we were ready to do, um, whatever.
703 00:38:33,290 00:38:36,300 - Narrator: The small crowd watches as the casket - Narrator: The small crowd watches as the casket
704 00:38:36,310 00:38:38,430 Is lifted from the grave... Is lifted from the grave...
705 00:38:38,500 00:38:42,600 Not knowing if danna's remains will be intact. Not knowing if danna's remains will be intact.
706 00:38:42,630 00:38:44,980 - After they've been buried for a while, - After they've been buried for a while,
707 00:38:45,060 00:38:47,320 You can get postmortem degradation of the remains. You can get postmortem degradation of the remains.
708 00:38:50,230 00:38:53,160 - ♪ - ♪
709 00:38:53,230 00:38:56,150 - Narrator: Police know that their case against lonnie hinges - Narrator: Police know that their case against lonnie hinges
710 00:38:56,160 00:38:59,280 On whether danna's remains can clearly show On whether danna's remains can clearly show
711 00:38:59,320 00:39:01,280 She had been murdered. She had been murdered.
712 00:39:01,360 00:39:05,340 - Krishna: The remains of danna were sent to a anthropologist - Krishna: The remains of danna were sent to a anthropologist
713 00:39:05,410 00:39:07,580 Up at chico state university. Up at chico state university.
714 00:39:07,660 00:39:11,960 - Narrator: As the coffin's lid is pried open... - Narrator: As the coffin's lid is pried open...
715 00:39:11,990 00:39:14,960 Investigators hold their breath. Investigators hold their breath.
716 00:39:15,040 00:39:18,300 And it's the moment of truth. And it's the moment of truth.
717 00:39:18,330 00:39:21,180 - The remains were definitely in a much worse condition - The remains were definitely in a much worse condition
718 00:39:21,190 00:39:24,180 When they're exhumed than they were 11 years before. When they're exhumed than they were 11 years before.
719 00:39:24,190 00:39:27,020 - Narrator: It looks like a setback. - Narrator: It looks like a setback.
720 00:39:27,030 00:39:31,270 But then, as the lead anthropologist looks closer, But then, as the lead anthropologist looks closer,
721 00:39:31,350 00:39:35,150 It seems that danna's body may actually have the answers It seems that danna's body may actually have the answers
722 00:39:35,230 00:39:36,650 They've been looking for. They've been looking for.
723 00:39:36,730 00:39:39,540 - Krishna: The anthropologist has danna laid out-- - Krishna: The anthropologist has danna laid out--
724 00:39:39,610 00:39:40,890 All of her remains. All of her remains.
725 00:39:40,970 00:39:45,330 He says, "what I saw in 1998, you'll be able to see it now." He says, "what I saw in 1998, you'll be able to see it now."
726 00:39:45,400 00:39:47,500 The preexisting injuries that had healed. The preexisting injuries that had healed.
727 00:39:47,570 00:39:49,460 The injuries that were in the process of healing. The injuries that were in the process of healing.
728 00:39:50,740 00:39:52,380 It was so compelling, It was so compelling,
729 00:39:52,460 00:39:54,640 I just felt like danna was telling her story. I just felt like danna was telling her story.
730 00:39:56,560 00:39:59,670 - Narrator: The difficult decision to exhume danna's body - Narrator: The difficult decision to exhume danna's body
731 00:39:59,750 00:40:01,180 Has paid off. Has paid off.
732 00:40:03,380 00:40:06,510 - Krishna: I needed the jury to see what we saw. - Krishna: I needed the jury to see what we saw.
733 00:40:06,590 00:40:09,680 Do I show her remains to the jury? Do I show her remains to the jury?
734 00:40:09,720 00:40:12,570 So I kind of talked it over with the family. So I kind of talked it over with the family.
735 00:40:12,650 00:40:13,760 - Even though it was uncomfortable - Even though it was uncomfortable
736 00:40:13,830 00:40:16,690 For all of our family, it's what needed to be done. For all of our family, it's what needed to be done.
737 00:40:16,770 00:40:21,650 - ♪ - ♪
738 00:40:21,730 00:40:24,410 - Krishna: I asked the judge that the jury be allowed - Krishna: I asked the judge that the jury be allowed
739 00:40:24,420 00:40:26,530 To observe danna's remains. To observe danna's remains.
740 00:40:26,610 00:40:28,040 The defense attorney was arguing with me The defense attorney was arguing with me
741 00:40:28,110 00:40:31,210 That this was prosecutorial misconduct. That this was prosecutorial misconduct.
742 00:40:31,240 00:40:34,420 I'm trying to inflame the jury, win them over. I'm trying to inflame the jury, win them over.
743 00:40:34,430 00:40:36,040 And I'm thinking, "oh my gosh. And I'm thinking, "oh my gosh.
744 00:40:36,120 00:40:37,430 I mean, what's the judge going to rule?" I mean, what's the judge going to rule?"
745 00:40:38,670 00:40:41,180 - ♪ - ♪
746 00:40:49,940 00:40:54,780 - Narrator: In October of 2012, 16 years after danna dever's - Narrator: In October of 2012, 16 years after danna dever's
747 00:40:54,860 00:40:58,450 Remains were discovered in a ditch in rio vista, Remains were discovered in a ditch in rio vista,
748 00:40:58,530 00:41:03,530 Her boyfriend, lonnie kerley, goes on trial for her murder. Her boyfriend, lonnie kerley, goes on trial for her murder.
749 00:41:03,610 00:41:06,950 - Nobody else had a motive. Nobody else disliked her. - Nobody else had a motive. Nobody else disliked her.
750 00:41:06,960 00:41:08,280 She was loved by all. She was loved by all.
751 00:41:08,310 00:41:11,870 She was loved by her daughter. She wouldn't leave her daughter. She was loved by her daughter. She wouldn't leave her daughter.
752 00:41:11,950 00:41:12,810 - Narrator: Prosecutors lobby - Narrator: Prosecutors lobby
753 00:41:12,890 00:41:15,430 To show her exhumed remains in court. To show her exhumed remains in court.
754 00:41:19,620 00:41:21,800 The judge rules in their favor. The judge rules in their favor.
755 00:41:21,810 00:41:25,640 Danna's remains can be shown to the jury. Danna's remains can be shown to the jury.
756 00:41:25,650 00:41:29,650 Prosecutor abrams is aware it might backfire. Prosecutor abrams is aware it might backfire.
757 00:41:29,720 00:41:33,140 - I'll never forget. We laid out her remains. - I'll never forget. We laid out her remains.
758 00:41:33,150 00:41:37,900 Jury comes down, and they all look at, um, her remains. Jury comes down, and they all look at, um, her remains.
759 00:41:37,970 00:41:39,480 - Narrator: The jury and everyone else - Narrator: The jury and everyone else
760 00:41:39,490 00:41:40,900 In the courtroom In the courtroom
761 00:41:40,980 00:41:44,950 Can see danna's injuries with their own eyes. Can see danna's injuries with their own eyes.
762 00:41:44,980 00:41:48,740 - We sat right there in court. It was uncomfortable. - We sat right there in court. It was uncomfortable.
763 00:41:48,820 00:41:51,910 - I felt like danna was telling her story of how she died - I felt like danna was telling her story of how she died
764 00:41:51,990 00:41:53,920 That summer in 1996. That summer in 1996.
765 00:41:55,920 00:41:57,790 - ♪ - ♪
766 00:41:57,870 00:42:00,000 - Bill: What I believed happened, - Bill: What I believed happened,
767 00:42:00,010 00:42:02,130 Lonnie's scheduled to go to court. Lonnie's scheduled to go to court.
768 00:42:02,210 00:42:04,840 And he's gonna be charged with domestic violence And he's gonna be charged with domestic violence
769 00:42:04,850 00:42:08,690 For when he attacked and abused and struck For when he attacked and abused and struck
770 00:42:08,760 00:42:10,970 And kicked danna dever in January. And kicked danna dever in January.
771 00:42:11,010 00:42:13,860 And I think all this emotion's building up. And I think all this emotion's building up.
772 00:42:13,940 00:42:18,100 There's yet another argument that's gotten physical between There's yet another argument that's gotten physical between
773 00:42:18,180 00:42:19,780 Lonnie and danna. Lonnie and danna.
774 00:42:22,690 00:42:26,110 I believe, out of his anger, he reaches forward, uh, I believe, out of his anger, he reaches forward, uh,
775 00:42:26,190 00:42:27,190 Strangles her. Strangles her.
776 00:42:30,230 00:42:32,590 Cracks her hyoid bone in her throat. Cracks her hyoid bone in her throat.
777 00:42:34,960 00:42:38,550 I believe that he then decides he has to get rid of the body. I believe that he then decides he has to get rid of the body.
778 00:42:38,630 00:42:41,720 - ♪ - ♪
779 00:42:41,800 00:42:43,840 - Bill: He takes the body out to rio vista, - Bill: He takes the body out to rio vista,
780 00:42:43,910 00:42:46,840 To this isolated area... To this isolated area...
781 00:42:46,880 00:42:49,060 And placed her there with a blanket. And placed her there with a blanket.
782 00:42:49,140 00:42:52,230 - ♪ - ♪
783 00:42:52,310 00:42:54,180 - He did exactly what he told her he was gonna do. - He did exactly what he told her he was gonna do.
784 00:42:54,220 00:42:56,850 He would dump her in a ditch so deep, no one would find her. He would dump her in a ditch so deep, no one would find her.
785 00:42:56,930 00:42:58,810 And sure enough, he did. And sure enough, he did.
786 00:42:58,890 00:43:00,740 - Narrator: But will the jury be convinced? - Narrator: But will the jury be convinced?
787 00:43:03,150 00:43:06,530 - We were terrified that he may be found not guilty, - We were terrified that he may be found not guilty,
788 00:43:06,600 00:43:08,580 That he wouldn't get convicted. That he wouldn't get convicted.
789 00:43:08,660 00:43:11,820 - Narrator: On January 2, 2013, - Narrator: On January 2, 2013,
790 00:43:11,900 00:43:14,750 The jury returns their verdict. The jury returns their verdict.
791 00:43:14,830 00:43:17,660 - The jury convicted him as charged of second-degree murder. - The jury convicted him as charged of second-degree murder.
792 00:43:17,740 00:43:19,840 He was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison. He was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison.
793 00:43:21,760 00:43:23,040 - ♪ - ♪
794 00:43:23,080 00:43:25,550 - It was very validating that the jury - It was very validating that the jury
795 00:43:25,620 00:43:27,770 Saw everything that I saw in the case. Saw everything that I saw in the case.
796 00:43:29,920 00:43:32,090 - Bill: Through the body being exhumed, - Bill: Through the body being exhumed,
797 00:43:32,110 00:43:34,760 The ability to tell the story because of the injuries The ability to tell the story because of the injuries
798 00:43:34,770 00:43:36,560 That were found on her bones, That were found on her bones,
799 00:43:36,590 00:43:38,900 The jury had nothing else to believe. The jury had nothing else to believe.
800 00:43:41,860 00:43:42,780 - Brittany: When he was convicted, - Brittany: When he was convicted,
801 00:43:42,860 00:43:46,280 I felt a lot of relief. I felt a lot of relief.
802 00:43:46,290 00:43:49,780 There's not enough thank yous we can ever say to-- There's not enough thank yous we can ever say to--
803 00:43:49,790 00:43:52,070 To everyone responsible. To everyone responsible.
804 00:43:52,110 00:43:54,700 - Bill: It's so great that I get to tell the story - Bill: It's so great that I get to tell the story
805 00:43:54,780 00:43:57,040 That it ends in a conviction. That it ends in a conviction.
806 00:43:57,110 00:44:01,960 That is why you get into becoming a sheriff's detective That is why you get into becoming a sheriff's detective
807 00:44:01,970 00:44:05,710 And actually working homicide cases. And actually working homicide cases.
808 00:44:05,790 00:44:07,220 This is--this is why you do it. This is--this is why you do it.
809 00:44:09,140 00:44:11,300 - Narrator: After 17 years, - Narrator: After 17 years,
810 00:44:11,310 00:44:15,980 Danna dever is finally laid to rest for good. Danna dever is finally laid to rest for good.
811 00:44:16,060 00:44:20,600 - Krishna: I believe she's at peace because everyone knows now - Krishna: I believe she's at peace because everyone knows now
812 00:44:20,680 00:44:23,770 How she died and at the hands of who. How she died and at the hands of who.
813 00:44:23,850 00:44:25,870 And so I think that there's a sense of justice. And so I think that there's a sense of justice.
814 00:44:28,140 00:44:32,280 - Bill: Now, hopefully, she'll rest. - Bill: Now, hopefully, she'll rest.
815 00:44:32,360 00:44:35,830 And there can be this closure. And there can be this closure.
816 00:44:35,840 00:44:37,740 - Brittany: I think that my aunt danna, - Brittany: I think that my aunt danna,
817 00:44:37,820 00:44:42,120 She would wanna be remembered as someone who... She would wanna be remembered as someone who...
818 00:44:42,200 00:44:44,790 Was strong and loved her family. Was strong and loved her family.
819 00:44:44,830 00:44:46,290 She just enjoyed life. She just enjoyed life.
820 00:44:46,370 00:44:49,890 - ♪ - ♪