The podcast delves into Mitrice's disappearance, sightings in a rural community, challenges in search efforts, racial discrimination in investigations, and mysterious disturbances in Montanito. It explores the involvement of retired sergeant Wright, the community's determination in search operations, and dark possibilities hinted at by cryptic clues.
Maitrise's footprints indicated her movements from walking to running towards Nicole Canyon driveway.
Montanito community's proactive support contrasted with difficulties in obtaining information and rumors circulating about Maitrise's disappearance.
Deep dives
The Search for Maitrise: Clues in Montanito
After Maitrise's disappearance, a search was conducted starting from the last known sighting location at the Smith's House. Footprints found by a certified man tracker indicated Maitrise's possible movements, transitioning from walking to running towards the front of the house. The footprints matched the shoe type she was wearing, hinting at her path towards the driveway on Nicole Canyon.
Challenges in the Search Efforts
Law enforcement along with Malibu Search and Rescue started looking for Maitrise, focusing on her potentially lost or disoriented state rather than as a victim. The search efforts involved following leads and tracking sightings, highlighting the challenges of investigating a missing person case in a vast area like Montanito.
Community Response and Rumors in Montanito
The Montanito community was proactive in supporting the search for Maitrise, with volunteers distributing flyers and organizing searches throughout the area. Dr. Rhonda Hampton, along with others, faced difficulties in obtaining information from the community, where there were underlying fears and a hesitation to cooperate with law enforcement. Additionally, rumors circulation, such as Maitrise being held by white supremacists, added layers of complexity to the search efforts.
Six hours after her release from Lost Hills Station, Mitrice is spotted in the rural community of Monte Nido. Investigators find Mitrice’s footprints, and neighbors report unusual disturbances around the time of her disappearance.