Discover the crafty tactics used by notorious hijackers to escape prison. Follow the gripping tale of two prisoners planning a helicopter escape. Experience the harrowing helicopter confrontation and the twisted plan for escape. Dive into the story of a brave 17-year-old girl's hijacking adventure to free someone from prison.
Martin McNally and Garrett Trapnell planned a helicopter prison escape using their hijacking skills.
Barbara Oswald's hijacking attempt to free Trapnell ended tragically, showcasing the high stakes involved.
Deep dives
Martin McNally and Garrett Trapnell's Collaboration in Prison Escape
Martin McNally and Garrett Trapnell, two convicted plane hijackers serving life sentences at Leavenworth Federal Penitentiary in Kansas, joined forces to plan an escape from prison using the very tactics that landed them behind bars. Despite their criminal backgrounds, they developed a plan involving a helicopter escape, highlighting their determination to regain their freedom and disregard for their confinement.
Barbara Oswald's Involvement in the Escape Attempt
Barbara Oswald, a key player in the escape plan orchestrated by McNally and Trapnell, hijacked a helicopter at gunpoint in an attempt to free Trapnell from prison. Unfortunately, the escape attempt took a fatal turn as the pilot, Alan Barklage, managed to overpower Oswald and prevent the hijacking. The failed escape demonstrated the high stakes and dramatic nature of the plan.
Robin Oswald's Involvement and the Aftermath
Robin Oswald, Barbara's daughter, later involved in the escape attempt after Barbara's death, hijacked a plane at 17 years old to rescue Trapnell, her mother's former confidant. Although the hijack attempt was unsuccessful due to mechanical issues and lack of real explosives, it showcased the intricate and risky efforts made to free Trapnell. The aftermath saw varying accounts of Robin's fate, providing insight into the complex and tragic events surrounding the escape plot.
This episode picks up where Episode 100 left off. We suggest you listen to them in order. When Martin McNally met another plane hijacker in prison, they started coming up with a plan to escape...using the very thing that got them there in the first place. For a transcript of this episode, send an email to transcripts@thisiscriminal.com with the episode name and number. Say hello on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Sign up for our occasional newsletter, The Accomplice. Artwork by Julienne Alexander. Check out our online shop. Criminal is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX. Please review us on Apple Podcasts! It’s an important way to help new listeners discover the show: iTunes.com/CriminalShow. We also make This is Love and Phoebe Reads a Mystery.