

S5 Ep.3: My Friend, The Murderer
6 snips Apr 6, 2022
In this gripping discussion, Jim Scharf, a dedicated detective from the Snohomish County cold case unit, reveals the shocking story of a murderer who lived a double life for three decades. He delves into the psyche of unique violent offenders and shares his emotional journey uncovering the truth behind Tanya and Jay's tragic case. The conversation explores profound themes of trust, loyalty, and the hidden darkness within relationships, challenging listeners to confront the unsettling duality of human nature.
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The Vanished Couple
- Tanya Van Kylenborg and Jay Cook, a young couple from Canada, went on a road trip to Seattle in late 1987.
- They were picking up furnace parts, but they disappeared and were later found murdered.
A Calculated Crime
- The killer likely planned the murders, using a "rape murder kit" and choosing locations across multiple counties.
- This level of sophistication led investigators to initially suspect an experienced ex-con.
Decades of Uncertainty
- Despite extensive searches and a feature on "Unsolved Mysteries," the case remained cold for decades.
- The DNA evidence was crucial, but it didn't match anyone in the existing databases.