True Crime Vault: New DNA Analysis in a Murder – Detailed Summary

1. Introduction to the Case

The episode of 20/20 titled "True Crime Vault: New DNA Analysis in a Murder" delves into one of America's most controversial and enduring true crime cases: the brutal double murder of Derek and Nancy Haysom in Bedford County, Virginia, and the subsequent conviction of their daughter, Elizabeth Haysom, and her German boyfriend, Jens Soering. Released on March 27, 2025, this episode explores the intricacies of the case, the initial investigation, the trial, and the recent advancements in DNA technology that may shed new light on the conviction.

2. The Crime Scene and Initial Investigation

On March 1985, the peaceful rural community of Bedford County was shattered by the gruesome murder of Derek and Nancy Haysom. The couple was found brutally stabbed to death in their home, with over 30 stab wounds each, indicating a frenzied and personal attack. The lack of forced entry and the absence of robbery suggested that the killers were familiar with the victims.

David Muir reflects on the scene:
“It was up close and personal to me. It was like a slaughterhouse.” (08:11)

3. Suspects: Elizabeth Haysom and Jens Soering

Elizabeth Haysom, the youngest daughter of the victims, and her boyfriend, Jens Soering, quickly emerged as primary suspects. Elizabeth, a two-year-old prodigy with a prestigious academic background, had a tumultuous relationship with her parents. Jens, an 18-year-old University of Virginia freshman and the son of a German diplomat, was deeply involved in Elizabeth's life.

Early suspicions were fueled by the rental car agreement that placed Elizabeth and Jens far from the crime scene at the time of the murders. Their alibi of being in Washington, D.C., was later disproven when discrepancies in the mileage and their travel records raised doubts.

4. Confessions and Trial

In 1986, Jens and Elizabeth were arrested in London for fraudulent activities unrelated to the murders. During their detention, Jens made a controversial confession, claiming sole responsibility for the murders to protect Elizabeth. This confession played a pivotal role in their subsequent indictment.

Elizabeth Haysom stated in court:
"I wanted my parents out of my life. But was he her pawn? He had a choice whether he killed my parents or not." (01:31)

The prosecution portrayed Jens as a manipulative individual who confessed falsely out of misguided loyalty and love. Key evidence included blood type analysis and a bloody sock print allegedly matching Jens's footwear.

5. Conviction and Sentence

The trial, which relied heavily on the initial confession and circumstantial evidence, resulted in Jens Soering being convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison. Elizabeth Haysom received a 90-year sentence as an accessory before the fact, admitting to helping plan the murders but maintaining that Jens was the actual perpetrator.

Prosecutor Jim Updike challenged Jens during cross-examination:
"To protect Elizabeth, right?" (31:34)

The jury, persuaded by the prosecution's narrative and the evidence presented, found Jens guilty, sealing his fate for decades.

6. Advocacy for Jens Soering

Over the years, Jens's supporters have mounted a robust campaign challenging his conviction. Notable advocates include:

• Jason Flom, a music mogul and founding board member of the Innocence Project, who believes in Jens's innocence based on inconsistencies in the case.
• Chip Harding, a sheriff in Albemarle County, Virginia, who continues to investigate and advocate for Jens despite opposition from original investigators like Ricky Gardner.

Chip Harding asserted:
"I do not believe, based on all the work that I did on this case, that Jens Soering participated in the homicide of Derek and Nancy." (42:58)

7. New DNA Evidence and Re-examination

The episode highlights groundbreaking advancements in DNA technology that have allowed for the re-examination of evidence long considered conclusive. Experts supporting Jens argue that DNA analysis reveals the presence of at least two unidentified males at the crime scene, suggesting the involvement of additional perpetrators beyond Jens.

An expert team stated:
"There is no trace of Jens at the crime scene." (39:26)

However, some consultants remain skeptical, proposing alternative interpretations of the DNA results. Professor Dan Crane questioned the conclusiveness of the findings, suggesting that some DNA could belong to the victims themselves:
"It's possible the DNA is actually from one of the victims, Derek Haysom." (40:24)

Additionally, new testimonies, such as that of Tony Buchanan, a mechanic who discovered blood and a bloody knife in a rental car previously attributed to Elizabeth and Jens, further complicate the narrative. Buchanan's revelation points to potential flaws in the original investigation and evidence handling.

8. Current Status and Conclusion

As of the episode's release in 2025, Jens Soering remains incarcerated, continuously fighting for his freedom through appeals and parole petitions. His latest parole opportunity coincides with the emergence of new DNA evidence, which his supporters believe could finally exonerate him.

Jens Soering, in a recent phone interview, expressed hope:
"I've spent 31 years in here, 32 birthdays. But I think maybe the end is now finally in sight." (41:01)

The episode concludes by emphasizing the profound impact of modern forensic science on historical cases, questioning the reliability of confessions obtained under duress, and highlighting the ongoing quest for justice in the face of potential wrongful convictions.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• David Muir on the crime scene:
  “It was up close and personal to me. It was like a slaughterhouse.” [08:11]

• Elizabeth Haysom in court:
  "I wanted my parents out of my life. But was he her pawn? He had a choice whether he killed my parents or not." [01:31]

• Prosecutor Jim Updike questioning Jens:
  "To protect Elizabeth, right?" [31:34]

• Chip Harding on Jens's innocence:
  "I do not believe, based on all the work that I did on this case, that Jens Soering participated in the homicide of Derek and Nancy." [42:58]

• Jens Soering expressing hope:
  "I've spent 31 years in here, 32 birthdays. But I think maybe the end is now finally in sight." [41:01]

Conclusion

"True Crime Vault: New DNA Analysis in a Murder" offers a comprehensive examination of the Jens Soering case, weaving together historical recounting with modern scientific advancements. The episode challenges viewers to reconsider preconceived notions of guilt and innocence, underscoring the transformative power of DNA evidence in seeking justice. As the case continues to evolve, the pursuit of truth remains a central theme, leaving audiences questioning the reliability of traditional investigative methods and the potential for reformation within the criminal justice system.