Venture into the dark mystery of Highway 20, where numerous women and girls have vanished over the decades. The gripping tale begins with the search for Kay Turner, highlighting eerie sightings and puzzling clues. As the investigation unfolds, the focus shifts to John, a suspect with a dubious alibi. Unravel disturbing connections to other missing persons and hear the chilling stories of those affected. The narrative culminates in a trial filled with complications and lingering uncertainties, leaving much still unsolved.
Kay Turner's unresolved case reveals systemic failures in police investigations, particularly regarding crucial evidence and leads that were overlooked.
John Aykroyd's history of violence and subsequent convictions highlight a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior that raises concerns about undiscovered victims.
Deep dives
The Disappearance of Kay Turner
Kay Turner's disappearance on Christmas Eve in 1978 is a haunting case that begins when her husband, Noel, notices she hasn't returned from her run. Despite being an experienced runner, Kay goes missing in the isolated wilderness near Highway 20, prompting an extensive search as her panicked husband calls the police. Witnesses report seeing her running alone, but police fail to investigate vital leads, including two sets of footprints that suggest a struggle. As days turn into weeks without any clues, investigators start to look into Kay's personal life, discovering potential marital issues that raise doubts about her disappearance as they search for answers.
Suspicious Leads and Unfolding Evidence
The investigation takes a pivotal turn when Kay's remains are discovered eight months later, alongside personal belongings, including a broken watch and her running shoes. Medical examinations reveal that Kay had suffered stab wounds and gunshot injuries, aligning with testimony from the only suspect, John Aykroyd, who initially claimed to have found her body. Aykroyd’s story evolves dramatically, raising red flags about his involvement, while his alibi regarding his whereabouts during Kay's disappearance comes under scrutiny. Despite his inconsistencies and failing a polygraph test, police find themselves lacking direct evidence to charge him immediately.
John Aykroyd's Checked Past
Notably, John Aykroyd had previously been accused of a violent assault against another woman, which casts further suspicion on his character. Even after the investigation into Kay's case loses momentum, Aykroyd remains a person of interest, especially after his inappropriate behavior at a diner known as Sherry's where he was recognized by locals. In 1990, Aykroyd becomes embroiled in a new case involving the disappearance of his stepdaughter, Rachanda Pickle, leading police back to consider his involvement in Kay's murder. The repeated pattern of violence in his history and the suspicious circumstances surrounding Rachanda's disappearance keep Aykroyd firmly in the spotlight.
Justice Served and Lingering Questions
Finally, Pam, Aykroyd's acquaintance, provides crucial testimony linking him to Kay's murder, resulting in his arrest and conviction after many years of unanswered questions. Convicted of Kay's murder in 1993, Aykroyd is sentenced to life in prison, preventing any chance of parole and seemingly bringing closure to Kay's case. However, his subsequent involvement in the disappearances of two more young women further complicates the narrative, leading investigators to suspect a deeper pattern of predatory behavior across multiple cases. Despite securing convictions in several cases, the possibility of other undiscovered victims linked to Aykroyd looms, leaving families searching for answers even after justice has been served.
Over several decades, women and girls have encountered a monster whose full reign of terror might not even be fully known. He hunted his own backyard, the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest, and there could be victims out there that have yet to be discovered.
If you have any information about John Ackroyd, or any of the cases discussed in this episode, please contact the Linn County Sheriff’s office tip line at 866-557-9988.
Did you know you can listen to this episode ad-free? Join the Fan Club! Visit crimejunkie.app/library/ to view the current membership options and policies.