Dateline NBC Evil Intent
Jul 30, 2024
A young woman's mysterious disappearance triggers a whirlwind investigation revealing betrayal and complex relationships. Her family's emotional turmoil exposes hidden dangers and vulnerabilities that emerge as they seek answers. The investigation uncovers chilling details tied to the victim's life and unearths past grievances between friends. Personal guilt complicates the journey for justice, while the aftermath highlights the community's struggle with trauma and healing after a violent crime.
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Mother Discovers Jessica In Bathtub
- Missy Nelson found her daughter Jessica drowned in the bathtub with a phone cord in her hand and water still running.
- She screamed, called 911, and later described Jessica's face as blue with a checkered pattern while the body remained a normal color.
Autopsy Transformed The Case
- Autopsy revealed Jessica was strangled and sexually assaulted, changing the investigation from medical to homicide.
- Detectives treated the scene as a homicide to preserve evidence and reconstruct the crime precisely.
Relationship Fallout From Voicemail
- Jessica had a volatile relationship with John McDowell and a son, Dominic, born during their relationship.
- After an accidental voicemail revealed John slept with another woman, Jessica chose to be a single mom and focused on work and her son.