Cold Case Files Podcast Summary
Episode: I SURVIVED: I Felt Like I Had Escaped Through Death
Host: Paula Barros
Release Date: July 26, 2025
Introduction
In this gripping episode of Cold Case Files, host Paula Barros delves into the harrowing true story of Jennifer, a 19-year-old nurse from Palm Springs, California, who survived a brutal abduction and assault by a serial killer. This detailed account not only highlights Jennifer's terrifying ordeal but also underscores the relentless pursuit of justice by law enforcement, ultimately leading to the apprehension of her attacker, Andrew Urdiales.
Jennifer's Life Before the Incident
Jennifer was a dedicated nurse working the night shift at a handicapped children's center. She was passionate about her job but faced challenges with punctuality due to an unfamiliar bus schedule. Her commitment to her work was evident when she shared:
"I loved my job" [03:00]
However, the pressure of potential reprimand for tardiness weighed heavily on her, setting the stage for the events that would unfold.
The Fateful Night
On a summer night in September 1992, Jennifer arrived early at her bus stop to prepare for her shift. While waiting in line at a store, she saw her bus pass by, triggering a panic about being late. In that vulnerable moment, a stranger offered her a ride.
"Excuse me, do you need a ride?" [03:26]
Despite initial reservations about accepting a ride from an unknown individual, Jennifer’s fear of losing her job compelled her to accept.
The Abduction
The following morning, after being dropped off at work, Jennifer encountered the same man offering another ride. Trusting her judgment, she accepted once more, unaware of the terror that awaited her.
"I need a ride. He's leaving. If he were some sort of psycho, why would he just leave?" [04:00]
Shortly after, the man revealed his true nature, transforming from a seemingly benign individual to a vicious attacker. He forcibly restrained Jennifer, tying her hands with twine and escalating the situation to unimaginable horror.
"He was just pure evil, and it was like a nightmare coming to life." [08:27]
The Ordeal
Jennifer endured relentless physical and psychological abuse. Her attacker, Andrew Urdiales, was a known serial killer responsible for the murders of eight women. During the assault, Jennifer experienced moments of despair and a fleeting sense of peace when she believed she had died.
"I felt like I had escaped through death and I was content." [10:10]
However, her survival instincts kicked in, enabling her to fight back against the restraints despite overwhelming fear and pain.
"I prayed to God and I thought rationally and logically instead of thinking emotionally." [24:48]
Rescue and Investigation
Jennifer’s survival was not only a testament to her resilience but also to the advancements in forensic technology and dedicated investigative work. Five years after the attack, in 1997, Jennifer was contacted by the police who had apprehended Urdiales in Indiana following a tip-off.
"This guy did this to you five years ago. He knows your name." [23:06]
Urdiales confessed to his crimes, providing detailed accounts that matched Jennifer's experiences, including specific information about her life and the assault.
"He knew everything about me, and he told the cops everything." [24:04]
Justice Served
Urdiales was sentenced to death in 2002. However, due to a moratorium on executions in Illinois starting in 2003, his sentence was effectively nullified. Tragically, Urdiales was found dead in his prison cell in 2018, an apparent suicide by hanging.
Jennifer’s Reflection
Jennifer attributes her survival to her ability to remain calm and focused on her daughter's safety during the catastrophic 2010 Tennessee flood, which serves as a parallel to her previous ordeal. Her strength and determination were pivotal in overcoming both natural disasters and personal trauma.
"I survived because I was a mom and I wanted to take care of my kid." [39:08]
Jennifer emphasizes the importance of rational thinking and faith in overcoming life-threatening situations.
"I prayed to God and I thought rationally and logically instead of thinking emotionally." [24:48]
Conclusion
This episode of Cold Case Files masterfully recounts Jennifer's terrifying experience and eventual survival, highlighting the critical role of forensic breakthroughs and dedicated law enforcement in solving cold cases. Jennifer's story is not only one of unimaginable horror but also of incredible resilience and the relentless pursuit of justice.
Notable Quotes
- Jennifer: "I loved my job." [03:00]
- Jennifer's Attacker: "He was just pure evil, and it was like a nightmare coming to life." [08:27]
- Jennifer: "I felt like I had escaped through death and I was content." [10:10]
- Jennifer: "I survived because I was a mom and I wanted to take care of my kid." [39:08]
- Jennifer's Attacker: "I felt happy. And I knew that I was. That I had passed away." [14:20]
This episode serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.