Heart of Darkness
- Feb 10, 2020
- 41:27
- Full Episode
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In this Dateline classic, a man in Virginia learns that his wife and son have been kidnapped by a group of international terrorists demanding millions in ransom while on vacation in the Philippines. With time running out, the FBI joins the case, which comes to a heart-stopping conclusion. Keith Morrison reports. Originally aired on NBC on May 28, 2017.
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Brief Summary
Jerfa and Kevin Lundsman are kidnapped in the Philippines, leading to a tense ransom negotiation and Kevin's eventual escape after months of captivity.
Key points
- A Family's Nightmare Begins. Jerfa and her son Kevin are kidnapped in the Philippines, plunging their family into chaos.
- Ransom Demand. The kidnappers demand $10 million for the release of Jerfa and Kevin.
- FBI Involvement. The FBI arrives to assist Heiko in negotiating for his family's release.
- A Mother's Despair. Jerfa learns that her son Kevin is still in captivity after her release.
- Escape Attempt. In a moment of chaos, Jerfa and her family attempt to escape their captors.
- Jerfa's Despair. Jerfa fears for her life and separation from her son, believing she may be executed.
Episode highlights
- Ransom DemandThe kidnappers demand $10 million for the release of Jerfa and Kevin.“We need $10 million for the release of your family.”0:22Feb 10, 2020
- FBI InvolvementThe FBI arrives to assist Heiko in negotiating for his family's release.“The FBI is here for you.”5:09Feb 10, 2020
- A Mother's DespairJerfa learns that her son Kevin is still in captivity after her release.“Who is Kevin?”14:45Feb 10, 2020
- Escape AttemptIn a moment of chaos, Jerfa and her family attempt to escape their captors.“Gunfire pierced the silence.”24:33Feb 10, 2020
- Jerfa's DespairJerfa fears for her life and separation from her son, believing she may be executed.“But she was convinced her time was up, that she was about to be executed.”26:10Feb 10, 2020
- Kevin's EscapeAfter months of captivity, Kevin seizes a chance to escape into the jungle.“I proceeded to walk to the edge of the house and I looked at the creek.”32:56Feb 10, 2020
- A Surprising RescueKevin encounters a stranger who offers help, leading to his rescue.“My name's Kenny, I'm here to help.”37:19Feb 10, 2020
- Reunion After OrdealKevin and Jerfa finally reunite after their harrowing experience.“We just ran out to each other and we just hugged each other.”39:01Feb 10, 2020
Episode quotes
Tension
85/ 100High tension
