Summary of "20/20 After Show: You Left Me for Dead"

Podcast Information:

• Title: 20/20
• Host/Author: ABC News
• Episode: 20/20 After Show: You Left Me for Dead
• Release Date: March 17, 2025

Introduction

In the premiere episode of the "20/20 After Show," host Debra Roberts welcomes listeners to an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at ABC News' flagship program. This episode delves deep into the gripping true crime story featured in "You Left Me for Dead," exploring the intricate investigation, personal interviews, and the profound impact on the small Montana community.

Case Overview: A Tragic Night in Belgrade

The episode centers around a harrowing double homicide that took place in Belgrade, Montana, near Bozeman. On a quiet evening, two women—Lauren DeWise and Ashley Vanheimer—were brutally attacked in their home. Lauren tragically lost her life, while Ashley miraculously survived despite severe injuries.

Debra Roberts provides a concise recap:

"You Left Me for Dead is a story of absolute horror and homicide in a small town near Bozeman, Montana. Two women are at home and this is a nightmare for any of us thinking about being at home on a quiet night when an intruder breaks in and shoots them."
[01:44]

The Investigation: Unraveling the Mystery

Initial Clues and Delay

John Quinones, ABC News correspondent and host of "You Left Me for Dead," discusses the complexities of the case:

"It's such a baffling case. You know, initially it was reported as a double homicide. And that sort of crime doesn't happen in a town like Belgrade, Montana."
[03:21]

The investigation, initially started five years prior, faced delays due to the pandemic. However, this pause ultimately benefited the case by allowing the community and key witnesses, particularly Ashley Vanheimer, the survivor, to become more open to sharing their experiences.

Ashley Vanheimer’s Resilience

Ashley Vanheimer's extraordinary strength and forgiveness stand out in the narrative. Despite being shot in the head and suffering significant brain injuries, she expresses remarkable forgiveness towards her attacker, Paul DeWise.

During an interview, Ashley states:

"Joe, we've gotta be honest with you."
[02:53]
"He was protecting his father."
[03:07]

Her ability to forgive is further highlighted when Lauren DeWise, her roommate and victim, shares her feelings:

"I have never felt anger at him. It's just the more of like, how could you do this to... the mom of your own daughter, a woman I love."
[05:40]

Discovery of the Murder Weapon

A pivotal moment in the investigation was the discovery of the murder weapon by Andrea Larson while ice fishing at Cattail Lake.

John Quinones recounts:

"She noticed this gun sitting on top of the ice, and it's covered with a little snow, and that's where it was found."
[10:14]

Andrea initially thought little of finding the gun, considering the prevalence of firearms in Montana. However, upon learning about the murders, she turned in the weapon, a breakthrough that significantly advanced the case.

Dedicated Law Enforcement

The relentless efforts of Detectives Jeremy Kopp of the Gallatin County Sheriff's Office and Dustin Lensing of the Belgrade Police Department were instrumental in solving the case. Their methodical approach included:

• Analyzing Boot Prints:

  "They found the exact kind of boot by searching the shoe aisles for the same kind of boots that these prints belong to."
  [14:01]

• Interviewing Suspects and Witnesses: Their thorough interviews and attention to detail led them to focus on Paul DeWise and his teenage son, Joe.

An extended clip from their interview reveals the personal sacrifices made by the detectives:

"It was a seven day a week affair for a long time. It was a mission."
Jeremy Kopp
[15:15]

The Perpetrator: Paul DeWise and His Family

Paul DeWise, the estranged and abusive husband of Lauren DeWise, emerges as the primary suspect. His inability to accept his wife's departure led to the tragic events.

Involvement of His Teen Son

In an unsettling twist, Paul involved his 15-year-old son, Joe, in the crime. Joe initially attempted to protect his father by lying to the investigators, exacerbating the complexity of the case.

John Quinones explains:

"He was trying desperately to protect his dad. And then they started finding evidence that pointed toward the young boy being at the crime scene."
[19:21]

Through compassionate interrogation techniques, including bringing in Joe's biological mother, the detectives were able to elicit a confession from Joe, who ultimately testified against his father. Joe's involvement underscores the profound psychological impact abusive relationships can have on families.

Community Impact: Shattered Peace

Belgrade, Montana, known for its peacefulness, was deeply shaken by the murders. The incident shattered the community's sense of safety, leading residents to become more vigilant.

John Quinones reflects:

"Now everyone's on guard. People have started locking their doors because they realize you just never know things can happen."
[25:56]

The community's collective trauma is palpable, highlighting that even the most serene environments are not immune to violence.

Reflections and Lessons Learned

Both Debra Roberts and John Quinones emphasize the broader implications of the case, particularly concerning domestic violence. Lauren DeWise's struggle and ultimate escape from an abusive relationship serve as a poignant reminder of the dangers such situations pose.

Lauren DeWise's final words encapsulate a crucial message:

"If you are in a bad situation, don't move somewhere where your offender can find you. Go anywhere to save your life."
[24:09]

Her strength and resilience have left a lasting impression on both the investigators and the community, serving as an inspiration for others facing similar circumstances.

Conclusion

The "20/20 After Show: You Left Me for Dead" offers an in-depth exploration of a tragic true crime case, highlighting the unwavering dedication of law enforcement, the resilience of survivors, and the profound impact on a close-knit community. Through engaging interviews, pivotal moments, and heartfelt reflections, the episode underscores the complexities of domestic abuse and the enduring human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Ashley Vanheimer: "Joe, we've gotta be honest with you."
  [02:53]

• Lauren DeWise: "I have never felt anger at him. It's just the more of like, how could you do this to... the mom of your own daughter, a woman I love."
  [05:40]

• John Quinones: "They found the exact kind of boot by searching the shoe aisles for the same kind of boots that these prints belong to."
  [14:01]

• Jeremy Kopp: "It was a mission."
  [15:15]

• Lauren DeWise: "If you are in a bad situation, don't move somewhere where your offender can find you. Go anywhere to save your life."
  [24:09]

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key elements, discussions, and emotional depths covered in the "20/20 After Show: You Left Me for Dead," providing listeners with a thorough understanding of the episode's content.