Podcast Summary: 20/20 Episode "Run, Run, Run"

Release Date: February 1, 2025

Introduction: A Community Shattered

The "Run, Run, Run" episode of ABC News' 20/20 delves deep into the harrowing true crime story of Miriam Helmick and the murder of her husband, Alan Helmick, in the quiet town of Whitewater, Colorado. This detailed investigation uncovers layers of betrayal, financial desperation, and psychological turmoil that ultimately lead to a courtroom showdown.

Background: Alan and Miriam Helmick

Alan Helmick, a respected 62-year-old mortgage broker known as the "broker of Main Street," was a pillar in the Grand Junction community. Passionate about helping others, Alan was admired for his dedication to assisting small businesses and families in securing their first homes. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed the serene landscapes of western Colorado, which he often shared with his wife, Miriam.

Miriam Helmick, ten years Alan's junior, was Alan's dance instructor who became his second wife after the tragic death of his first wife, Sharon, in 2003. Their relationship was perceived as a fairytale second chance at love, with Alan deeply committed to fulfilling Miriam's dreams, including opening a dance studio and a horse training business.

"He just never gave up, let's just put it that way."
— Ryan Reynolds interviewing Miriam Helmick (MM:73:12)

The Murder of Alan Helmick

On June 10, 2008, Alan Helmick was found dead in his Whitewater home, shot in the back of the head. Miriam returned home from running errands to discover the gruesome scene, immediately contacting emergency services.

"Right now. My husband is dead. I'm missing my right arm. I feel like I'm just missing my life. I don't know what to do."
— Miriam Helmick (MM:00:30)

The initial police assessment suggested a staged burglary gone wrong, as valuables were seemingly untouched and drawers were pulled open without apparent motive.

An Earlier Attempt: Suspicious Arson

Less than two months before Alan's murder, an attempted arson incident raised suspicions. During a business transaction in Delta, Colorado, Alan and Miriam's car was targeted with a wick in the gas tank, leading to a minor fire. The unusual nature of the act left investigators baffled.

"It was like something straight out of a movie."
— Detective Robin Martin (MM:19:07)

Investigators questioned both Alan and Miriam, but Miriam maintained an airtight alibi, supported by receipts and cell phone records placing her across the valley during the time of the attempted arson.

Financial Struggles: A Possible Motive

As Alan's financial decisions began to falter due to unsuccessful ventures in the horse and dance businesses, the Helmicks found themselves in a financial quagmire. Miriam sold off property and grappling with the loss of Alan, brought further strain.

"The more investigators dig, the more troubling details they uncover."
— Narrator (MM:55:56)

Alan's dwindling finances became a focal point, suggesting a potential financial motive for his murder. However, Miriam's lack of direct financial gain complicated the narrative.

The Threatening Card: Escalation of Fear

Two weeks post-murder, Miriam discovered a chilling note under her doormat:

"Allen's first. You're next. Run."
— Unknown Sender (MM:37:13)

This ominous message intensified fears for Miriam's safety, leading her to temporarily relocate to Jacksonville, Florida, seeking refuge with her son, Chris. The card's mysterious origins spurred a renewed investigation, focusing on its procurement and the sender's identity.

Breakthrough: The Smoking Gun

A pivotal moment in the investigation occurred when a bullet linked to a family gun from a 1989 dispute was recovered from the murder scene. This discovery connected Miriam to the crime, especially when combined with her purchasing record of the threatening card.

"That bullet was right in this area right here. It was an aha moment."
— Carol Quarles, Retired Law Enforcement Officer (MM:62:36)

Additionally, surveillance footage revealed Miriam purchasing the specific greeting card, undermining her previously unassailable alibi.

Miriam's Arrest and Trial

Facing mounting evidence, including forged checks totaling $40,000 from Alan's accounts and the linking bullet, Miriam was arrested and charged with first-degree murder, attempted murder for the car fire, and forgery. During her trial, prosecutors presented a compelling case centered on financial desperation and calculated deceit.

"The motive was as age old as they come. Money."
— Prosecutor (MM:65:21)

Despite defense arguments asserting that the checks were authorized, the jury found Miriam guilty on all counts after a swift deliberation.

"Guilty on all counts."
— Jury Verdict (MM:70:40)

She was sentenced to life without parole, cementing her role as the orchestrator behind the tragic events.

Aftermath: Family and Community Impact

The murder left a lasting scar on the Whitewater community and Alan's family. Alan's children grappled with the betrayal and loss, while Miriam served her sentence in the Denver Women's Correctional Facility. Years later, Miriam reached out to her son, Chris, expressing remorse and maintaining her innocence.

"I do not."
— Miriam Helmick (MM:81:15)

Chris, however, remains steadfast in his disbelief, choosing to focus on the positive memories of his father rather than the painful truth of his mother's conviction.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Love and Loss

"Run, Run, Run" offers a poignant exploration of love turned deadly, the complexities of human motivations, and the enduring quest for justice. Through meticulous reporting and emotional interviews, 20/20 paints a comprehensive picture of the tragic unraveling of the Helmick family's seemingly idyllic life.

Notable Quotes with Attribution and Timestamps:

• "Right now. My husband is dead. I'm missing my right arm. I feel like I'm just missing my life. I don't know what to do."
  — Miriam Helmick (00:30)

• "I met him teaching how to dance, and I didn't really like him while he grew on me."
  — Bob Caccetti, Alan's friend and accountant (04:23)

• "He did not like lying or dishonesty. He would fire people for that."
  — Bob Caccetti (08:34)

• "I think he's a wayward kid because he's sort of a bum."
  — Alan Jr. (31:16)

• "Alan had some enemies, but nobody wasn't going to kill him."
  — Ed Benson, friend of Alan (34:23)

• "You're up. My dad's like, you're up."
  — Alan Jr. (31:12)

• "You can't fix that by just."
  — Alan Jr. (30:45)

• "It was a fairytale come true."
  — Narrator (06:24)

• "Guilty on all counts."
  — Jury (70:40)

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the intricate details and emotional depth of the "Run, Run, Run" episode, providing listeners with a clear and engaging account of the events that transpired in the Helmick case.