A chilling murder case involving champion cyclist Mariah Wilson unfolds with new evidence and courtroom revelations. Suspicions grow around Colin Strickland as detectives unravel connections and deceit. The search intensifies for prime suspect Caitlyn Armstrong, leading to a dramatic apprehension in Costa Rica. Courtroom drama culminates in Caitlyn's guilty verdict and a 90-year prison sentence, highlighting the emotional impact on all involved.
Surveillance footage linked suspect to crime scene and ballistics confirmed gun connection.
Caitlyn Armstrong used multiple aliases in Costa Rica to evade authorities.
Marshals utilized unconventional tactics like posing as tourists and job ads to locate fugitive.
Deep dives
Investigation and Suspects
Authorities launched an investigation into the murder of cyclist Mariah Wilson in Austin, Texas. The prime suspects were Colin Strickland, Mariah's romantic interest, and Caitlyn Armstrong, Colin's girlfriend. Police found Caitlyn's ties to Mariah intriguing, with suspicions heightened by Caitlyn's behavior and jealousy indicators. The discovery of surveillance footage showing a vehicle linked to the crime scene and ballistics confirming Caitlyn's gun connection escalated the focus on her.
The Escape to Costa Rica
As law enforcement intensified their search for Caitlyn Armstrong, their efforts revealed her escape to Costa Rica under the pseudonym Beth. She evaded detection by adopting various aliases and reserving accommodations that she never used. Costa Rican authorities collaborated with U.S. Marshals to locate Caitlyn, as she attempted to blend into the country's yoga community and navigate the area incognito.
Challenges in the Hunt
The search for Caitlyn Armstrong posed significant challenges, including her use of multiple aliases and transient behavior. Detectives struggled to pinpoint her exact location as she moved between different lodgings and avoided direct encounters. Caitlyn's evasion tactics forced authorities to adapt strategies, collaborate internationally, and rely on unconventional leads to track her movements in Costa Rica.
The Search in Santa Teresa
Marshals searched for Caitlyn Armstrong in Santa Teresa, investigating leads that traced her phone to the area. Despite numerous Caitlyn look-alikes, their search proved challenging. The team tried various tactics, like posing as tourists and seeking help in a Santa Teresa Facebook group. Eventually, a response to a job ad for a yoga instructor led to a promising lead.
The Trial and Conviction
Following circumstantial evidence and testimonies, Caitlyn Armstrong faced trial for Mariah Wilson's murder. The prosecution presented a compelling case, emphasizing Caitlyn's stalking behaviors and technology use. Despite the defense's efforts to create doubt, the jury found Caitlyn guilty of murder and sentenced her to 90 years in prison. Mariah's loved ones expressed their grief and longing for justice, highlighting the lasting impact of Caitlyn's actions.
Keith Morrison reports new revelations in the headline-making case of murdered professional cyclist Moriah Wilson, including fresh courtroom evidence and a police interview with a key witness.
Keith Morrison and Josh Mankiewicz go behind the scenes of the making of this episode in ‘Talking Dateline’: