The family taunted by a sadistic killer (Part 1/2)
- Sep 22, 2023
- 1:04:17
- Full Episode
Case 261: Shari Smith & Debra May Helmick (Part 1)
*** Content warning: Sexual assault *** [Part 1 of 2] When 17-year-old Shari Smith disappeared from the end of her family's driveway in Lexington, South Carolina, there were immediate concerns for her wellbeing. Shari had a rare medical condition that could turn fatal without her medication.
But any concerns that Shari’s illness could have caused her disappearance were quickly quashed after the Smith family received an odd phone call, prompting the largest manhunt in South Carolina’s history. As the taunting calls continued, the question remained - where was Shari? And was she still alive?
CREDITS
Narration – Anonymous Host Research & writing – Elsha McGill Creative direction – Milly Raso Production and music – Mike Migas Music – Andrew D.B. Joslyn
SOCIAL LINKS
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RESOURCES
For all credits and sources, please visit https://casefilepodcast.com/case-261-shari-smith-debra-may-helmick-part-1
Brief Summary
The episode details Sherry Smith's abduction, the investigation, and her tragic murder in 1985.
Key points
- Sher's Disappearance. On May 31, 1985, 17-year-old Sher Smith vanished after a pool party, sparking a massive search.
- The Haunting Letter. A letter signed by Sher, titled 'last will and testament', raises alarms about her fate.
- The Desperate Plea. Bob and Hilda Smith make a public appeal for their daughter's return, expressing their love.
- The Search for Sher Smith. The Smith family pleads for Sher's safe return, offering a reward for information.
- The Kidnapper's Call. A chilling phone call reveals the kidnapper's connection to Sher and his demands.
- The Discovery of Sher's Body. After five days of searching, Sher's body is found, leading to heartbreak for her family.
Episode highlights
- Sher's DisappearanceOn May 31, 1985, 17-year-old Sher Smith vanished after a pool party, sparking a massive search.“Sher was in the prime of her life, set to graduate with honors.”5:01Sep 22, 2023
- The Haunting LetterA letter signed by Sher, titled 'last will and testament', raises alarms about her fate.“Casket closed.”23:54Sep 22, 2023
- The Desperate PleaBob and Hilda Smith make a public appeal for their daughter's return, expressing their love.“We want her back, we miss her, we love her.”24:53Sep 22, 2023
- The Search for Sher SmithThe Smith family pleads for Sher's safe return, offering a reward for information.“Nothing in the world is more important right now.”25:05Sep 22, 2023
- The Kidnapper's CallA chilling phone call reveals the kidnapper's connection to Sher and his demands.“Forget Lexington County, look in Saluda County.”29:32Sep 22, 2023
- The Discovery of Sher's BodyAfter five days of searching, Sher's body is found, leading to heartbreak for her family.“It was the unmistakable sight of a human body.”42:22Sep 22, 2023
- The Killer's CallDawn receives a shocking call from her sister's killer, revealing disturbing details about Sher's death.“I hope you and your family forgive me.”51:55Sep 22, 2023
- Funeral PanicA man at Sher's funeral causes chaos with a sudden outburst, becoming a suspect.“I believe you're here!”57:07Sep 22, 2023
