Summary of "48 Hours" Episode: Post Mortem | Cati Blauvelt: Death of a Soldier’s Wife

Introduction

In the Post Mortem episode titled Cati Blauvelt: Death of a Soldier’s Wife, CBS News’ 48 Hours delves deeply into the harrowing case of John Blauvelt, a military recruiter convicted of murdering his wife, Katie Blauvelt, in Simpsonville, South Carolina, in 2016. Hosted by Anne-Marie Green, the episode features correspondents Peter Van Sant and field producer Kat Terfs as they dissect the intricate details of the case, exploring the evidence, motivations, and the subsequent manhunt that led to John’s eventual capture.

The Crime and the Murder Weapon

The episode opens with a poignant examination of the murder weapon—a seemingly ordinary knife used by John Blauvelt to fatally stab his wife.

Peter Van Sant (02:27) describes the emotional weight of handling the weapon:

“It's a real solemn, heartbreaking moment. This is the weapon that was one of the last things that Katie Blauvelt saw on this earth. It was selected by her killer. This killer was a trained soldier he knew how to use knives.”

Anne-Marie Green (03:05) highlights the prosecution’s argument regarding the weapon:

“The prosecution said that there was DNA found under Katie's fingernails, but it was a partial match to John Blauvelt. You could not conclusively say that that was John's DNA there.”

This evidence underscored the intimate and calculated nature of the crime, pointing to a premeditated act of revenge.

John Blauvelt’s Persona and Influence

John Blauvelt was not just a military recruiter; he was an influential figure among teenagers, which added complexity to the case. His ability to connect with young individuals made him a trusted figure, particularly pointed out by Anne-Marie Green:

“Of course, Katie finds John completely trustworthy. She's wooed by him, so much so that she actually enlists as well, much to Katie's mom.”

Kat Terfs (05:13) observes the exploitative nature of John’s relationships:

“John was in his late 20s and you know, these kids are 17. You know, you made a point about adults psychologically taking advantage of children.”

This dynamic is critical in understanding how John not only manipulated his spouse but also influenced other young lives, leading to tragic consequences.

The Escape and the Manhunt

After the murder, with insufficient evidence to charge him immediately, John fled with his 17-year-old girlfriend, Hannah Thompson. Their flight took them across several states, showcasing John's military training and tactical skills.

Peter Van Sant (07:07) explains the immediate aftermath:

“They just didn't quite have enough. And Blauvelt takes off and he takes off with a 17-year-old girl, Hannah Thompson with them. They're heading out on the road.”

As they traveled, they lived as transient, homeless individuals, panhandling for food and shelter. However, about a month into their escape, John left Hannah alone, a decision that would later prove pivotal in his capture.

Tracking John Blauvelt

The U.S. Marshals' relentless pursuit eventually led them to Medford, Oregon, where John had assumed a new identity as Ben Klein. Key factors in his capture included:

1. Identifying Features: Despite several changes in appearance, John's distinctive pirate tattoo remained a crucial identifier.

   Peter Van Sant (13:32) remarks:

   “But he had one identifying feature he could not shed that he could not change. And that was a pirate tattoo tattoo that was on his arm.”

2. Information from Hannah Thompson: Over the years, Hannah provided investigators with critical information that helped narrow down John's whereabouts.

   Kat Terfs (15:26) explains:

   “Investigators were talking to Hannah over the years, and Hannah said that he had told her that he had had this long term girlfriend who he.”

These combined efforts culminated in John’s discovery and apprehension near his new residence.

The Capture and Aftermath

Upon locating John Blauvelt in Medford, Oregon, authorities executed the takedown swiftly. The encounter revealed the stark contrast between his former and current self—his beard, weight gain, and changed appearance nearly concealed his identity.

Peter Van Sant (17:08) reflects on the marshals' effectiveness:

“They have been able to track him down to where he's living with his new girlfriend in Medford, Oregon.”

The confrontation was shocking for John's new girlfriend, who was unaware of his violent past. This led to emotional turmoil and disbelief at the revelation of her partner’s true identity.

Hannah Thompson’s Role and Legal Consequences

Hannah Thompson, the 17-year-old who fled with John, faced her own set of challenges as authorities scrutinized her involvement. Despite her young age, she was implicated in five felonies related to the case.

Kat Terfs (20:07) outlines Hannah’s legal situation:

“Hannah has pleaded not guilty to the charges against her.”

Her testimony remains crucial, as she is expected to be the star witness in the trial against John Blauvelt. The legal proceedings for Hannah are pending, with no trial date set at the time of the episode’s release.

The Trial and Sentencing

John Blauvelt’s trial was swift, lasting only four days. The prosecution's case was bolstered by the journal John kept during his time on the run, which included a phrase he wrote—“I did it”—interpreted as an admission of guilt.

Kat Terfs (19:20) discusses the journal's significance:

“He would write about his day to day happenings, camping, how he was spending his time... and there was a letter where he wrote to her after she left, where he said that he was sorry to have allegedly involved her.”

Ultimately, John was found guilty and sentenced to life in prison. He plans to appeal his conviction, seeking to overturn the decision, while Hannah's fate remains uncertain, pending judicial review.

Conclusions and Reflections

The episode concludes with reflections on the tragic loss of Katie Blauvelt and the profound impact of John’s actions on those around him. Anne-Marie Green poignantly summarizes the personal devastation:

“Katie would have left, I mean, literally after the honeymoon. The writing was on the wall. And because she crossed paths with the wrong person, it has this tragic, tragic end. And it's such a shame.”

Peter Van Sant (20:53) adds:

“She was a sweetheart of a young woman. Those who knew her, she loved animals. She just wanted to get married. She wanted to have a family. Just the shock of what she had hoped for and what her life became, how it ended in this tragic murder is just heartbreaking.”

The episode serves as a sobering reminder of the complexities surrounding criminal investigations, the vulnerabilities exploited by manipulators, and the enduring quest for justice.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Peter Van Sant [02:27]:

  “This is the weapon that was one of the last things that Katie Blauvelt saw on this earth.”

• Anne-Marie Green [03:05]:

  “The prosecution said that there was DNA found under Katie's fingernails, but it was a partial match to John Blauvelt.”

• Kat Terfs [05:13]:

  “These are 17-year-olds. And as a father of a bunch of kids, that's a very vulnerable age for people.”

• Peter Van Sant [07:07]:

  “They just didn't quite have enough. And Blauvelt takes off with a 17-year-old girl, Hannah Thompson.”

• Peter Van Sant [13:32]:

  “He had one identifying feature he could not shed that he could not change. And that was a pirate tattoo tattoo that was on his arm.”

• Kat Terfs [15:26]:

  “Investigators were talking to Hannah over the years, and Hannah said that he had told her that he had had this long term girlfriend who he.”

• Peter Van Sant [17:08]:

  “They have been able to track him down to where he's living with his new girlfriend in Medford, Oregon.”

• Anne-Marie Green [20:18]:

  “Katie would have left... because she crossed paths with the wrong person, it has this tragic, tragic end.”

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key elements of the Post Mortem episode, providing an in-depth understanding of the case for listeners who haven't tuned in.