Anatomy of Murder: Episode Summary – "Unsuspecting (Milana Li)"
Hosts: Anna-Sigga Nicolazzi & Scott Weinberger
Release Date: April 8, 2025
Introduction
In the poignant episode titled "Unsuspecting (Milana Li)" of Anatomy of Murder, hosts Anna-Sigga Nicolazzi and Scott Weinberger delve deep into the tragic and intricate case of 13-year-old Malana Lee. The episode meticulously dissects the layers of this heartbreaking murder, exploring the victim's life, the harrowing crime, and the exhaustive investigation that followed.
Background of the Victim
Malana Lee, a 13-year-old girl, had recently immigrated to Beaverton, Oregon, from Kazakhstan. Described by friends and family as bright and responsible, Malana was adapting well to her new environment, excelling in school, and shouldering significant responsibilities at home, such as caring for her younger sister. Her mother, Aseli Lee, had a close-knit relationship with her daughter, making Malana's disappearance all the more devastating.
Malana's Mother, Aseli Lee [07:53]: "She's 13."
The Disappearance and Discovery
On the early morning of May 9, 2022, Malana went missing. Her mother returned home from a night shift at Nike headquarters to find Malana absent. Initial thoughts leaned towards Malana possibly skipping school, a notion quickly dismissed as more time passed without her return.
The search intensified when friends discovered Malana's clothing in a secluded wooded area near Westside Linear Park. The situation escalated when police found Malana's body half-submerged in a creek, showing signs of severe physical trauma and evidence of sexual assault.
Cindy, Detective [02:49]: "Your flat affect just kind of has me a little puzzled..."
The Investigation Unfolds
Senior Deputy Attorney John Gerard spearheaded the investigation, bringing his extensive experience to bear. The meticulous examination of the crime scene revealed that Malana had been brutally assaulted and strangled, with significant DNA evidence pointing towards the perpetrator.
The breakthrough came through Malana's cell phone data, which traced her movements to a local shopping center. A young employee at a frozen yogurt shop identified Daniel Gore, a 16-year-old with a troubled past, as the last person seen with Malana on the day of her disappearance.
John Gerard [05:03]: "So I have prosecuted almost three dozen homicide cases. The majority of those were murders."
Identifying the Suspect: Daniel Gore
Daniel Gore emerged as the primary suspect due to several pieces of circumstantial evidence:
- Last Known Association: He was the last individual reported to be with Malana.
- Juvenile Record: Gore had a history of theft, property damage, and arson.
- Suspicious Behavior: Upon being located at a public library, Gore attempted to evade police, only to be caught after a brief chase.
- Digital Evidence: Text messages and cell phone data placed him at key locations during the time of Malana's murder.
- DNA Correlation: Gore's DNA matched that found on Malana's clothing and at the crime scene.
During the police interview, Gore remained calm and cooperative, yet inconsistencies in his account raised suspicions. Surveillance footage further contradicted his statements, solidifying his position as the main suspect.
Daniel Gore [22:18]: "I just liked the freedom during my interview. I enjoyed being on my own."
The Trial and Legal Hurdles
The prosecution faced a significant legal challenge due to Oregon's juvenile justice reform bill, which required a higher standard to try juveniles as adults. However, Deputy DA John Gerard successfully argued that Gore possessed sufficient maturity and that his crimes were too severe to be handled within the juvenile system.
The trial was swift, with the jury deliberating for only an hour and a half before returning a guilty verdict on multiple charges, including first-degree murder and sexual assault.
John Gerard [35:00]: "Guilty of murder in the first degree."
Defense Strategies and Prosecution's Response
The defense attempted to introduce reasonable doubt by highlighting unidentified male DNA at the scene and suggesting alternative suspects. They also contended that any sexual interaction was consensual, despite the significant age difference and statutory implications.
In response, the prosecution emphasized the totality of the evidence against Gore, including his digital footprint, physical evidence, and disturbing internet search history that reflected an obsession with violent and sexual violence against women.
Anna-Sigga Nicolazzi [40:46]: "Convict him for this statutory sexual assault... but don't convict him for the murder."
Sentencing and Aftermath
Daniel Gore was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 15 years, a decision that sparked debate over juvenile sentencing laws. Malana Lee's family and the Beaverton community mourned her loss deeply, establishing memorials and support funds in her honor.
Malana's Mother [48:25]: "She was the girl who always smiled."
Conclusion
"Unsuspecting (Milana Li)" serves as a powerful exploration of a tragic crime, highlighting the intricate process of investigation and the challenges within the juvenile justice system. Hosts Anna-Sigga Nicolazzi and Scott Weinberger provide a comprehensive narrative that honors Malana Lee's memory while shedding light on the complexities of seeking justice in such devastating circumstances.
Malana Lee is remembered not just for the manner of her untimely death but as a beacon of light for her family and friends, embodying the resilience and love she shared during her short life.
Notable Quotes:
- John Gerard [05:03]: "So I have prosecuted almost three dozen homicide cases. The majority of those were murders."
- Daniel Gore [22:18]: "I just liked the freedom during my interview. I enjoyed being on my own."
- Anna-Sigga Nicolazzi [40:46]: "Convict him for this statutory sexual assault... but don't convict him for the murder."
Anatomy of Murder continues to provide in-depth analyses of complex murder cases, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the multifaceted world of criminal investigations.