Dateline NBC The Trouble in Bardstown
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Nov 11, 2025 Sherry Ballard, a dedicated mother seeking justice for her missing daughter Crystal Rogers, shares her emotional journey. Detective John Snow offers insights from the initial investigation, revealing troubling evidence surrounding Brooks Houck, the primary suspect. They discuss community responses and the escalating crime wave in Bardstown. The podcast unfolds a gripping tale of pursuit and tragedy, including Sherry's father's own murder and the eventual arrests of those involved, highlighting an ongoing fight for truth and justice.
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Disappearance Begins With Abandoned Car
- Crystal Rogers vanished after being in constant contact with her children, then her car was found abandoned on the Bluegrass Parkway with her purse and phone inside. Her family immediately sensed something was wrong and started searching themselves while notifying police.
Father Launches Grassroots Investigation
- Tommy Ballard led daily searches and organized Team Crystal on social media after his daughter's disappearance. He became deeply involved and relentless in hunting leads across the community.
Father Shot During Private Search
- Tommy Ballard was ambushed and fatally shot while out hunting, leaving family convinced his independent investigation cost him his life. His killing intensified fear across Bardstown and linked to prior unsolved targeted shootings.