Cold Case Files: I SURVIVED – "I've Got Bad News For You, You've Just Been Kidnapped"

Release Date: August 9, 2025
Host: Paula Barros
Description: This episode delves into two harrowing survival stories—one of kidnapping and the other of a life-threatening outdoor adventure gone wrong. Through detailed narratives and firsthand accounts, Paula Barros explores the resilience and courage of individuals who faced unimaginable terror.

Story 1: Martin's Ordeal – A 13-Year-Old's Survival from Kidnapping

Background and Initial Encounter (01:58 - 04:08)
In January 1973, 13-year-old Martin and his family relocate from the countryside to Portsmouth, Virginia. Left to babysit his younger siblings during a heavy snowfall, Martin encounters Richard "Pee Wee" Osley, a convicted pedophile out on parole. Osley deceitfully approaches Martin, offering him a job opportunity.

Martin (03:02):
"Six of us without milk or provisions... I thought that was a good deal. I was... a neighbor that needed help, going to pay me."

The Kidnapping (04:08 - 10:26)
Osley lures Martin into a secluded area, revealing his sinister intentions. Martin describes the moment of realization when Osley declares his kidnapping, leading to a terrifying struggle where Martin is overpowered and assaulted multiple times.

Martin (02:07):
"I've got bad news for you. You've just been kidnapped."

Captivity and Psychological Torment (10:26 - 15:32)
Over several days, Martin endures continuous abuse and confinement in a purpose-built wooden box buried in the woods. Osley's intermittent moments of apparent friendliness contrast sharply with his violent outbursts, deepening Martin's fear and isolation.

Martin (10:21):
"He would sit and get quiet. That's when I knew things were going to turn bad."

Rescue and Aftermath (15:32 - 23:29)
On the seventh day, Martin is inadvertently rescued when hunters stumble upon his location. Osley is apprehended shortly after but meets a violent end in prison. Martin's path to healing includes overcoming substance abuse and finding peace through faith.

Martin (22:25):
"I was at peace with what had happened... peace with Richard Osley as well."

Reflection and Advocacy (23:29 - 24:22)
Now an advocate for rape survivors, Martin shares his insights on resilience and healing, emphasizing that survivors are not to blame and can lead fulfilling lives post-trauma.

Martin (23:29):
"You've done nothing wrong... you can take hope that there can be a life that you can live without that fear."

Story 2: The Zion National Park Canyoneering Tragedy

Setting the Scene (25:28 - 26:12)
In July 2010, three friends—Jason, Dave, and Joe—embark on a canyoneering trip in Zion National Park, Utah. Experienced yet cautious, they aim to conquer the challenging Spry Canyon route.

Dave (26:12):
"Spry Canyon is the name of the canyoneering route... set up your rappel and get down to the next station."

The Onset of Disaster (27:24 - 29:13)
Approximately four to five hours into their descent, a sudden thunderstorm catches them unprepared. Ignoring a flash flood warning from the National Weather Service, they proceed, leading to perilous conditions as heavy rain transforms the canyon into a raging torrent.

Joe (28:04):
"It was July in Zion... we need."

Trapped and Overwhelmed (29:13 - 35:24)
Caught in the path of an unexpected flash flood, the trio faces life-threatening currents and cascading waterfalls. Despite their efforts to rappel to safety, they are forcefully swept over a 40-foot drop, plunging into violent waters. Joe becomes trapped beneath a second waterfall, while Jason and Dave endure severe injuries from a subsequent 60-foot fall.

Dave (31:35):
"The water started to rise... come above us."

Rescue Efforts and Survival (35:24 - 40:37)
After moments of despair, rescue teams arrive, airlifting Jason and Dave while Joe remains trapped. Through sheer determination and mutual support, the friends manage to survive their ordeal, though not without lasting physical and emotional scars.

Jason (40:18):
"Seen me or heard me or something... I have a pretty good chance of getting out of this."

Healing and Reflection (40:37 - 42:34)
Months later, the survivors return to the canyon seeking closure. Their bond and the miraculous nature of their survival underscore the episode's themes of resilience and friendship.

Dave (42:03):
"I survived because of my two friends and myself working together through this extremely... terrifying situation."

Conclusion

This episode of Cold Case Files: I SURVIVED masterfully intertwines two distinct yet equally harrowing survival stories. Through Martin's courageous battle against his abuser and the friends' fight against nature's fury, host Paula Barros highlights the indomitable human spirit. Notable quotes from the survivors provide profound insights into their experiences, offering listeners a deeply engaging and emotional journey through these tales of survival.

Notable Quotes:

• Martin (02:07):
  "I've got bad news for you. You've just been kidnapped."

• Martin (23:29):
  "You've done nothing wrong... you can take hope that there can be a life that you can live without that fear."

• Joe (28:04):
  "It was July in Zion... we need."

• Dave (31:35):
  "The water started to rise... come above us."

• Jason (40:18):
  "Seen me or heard me or something... I have a pretty good chance of getting out of this."

• Dave (42:03):
  "I survived because of my two friends and myself working together through this extremely... terrifying situation."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key points, discussions, insights, and conclusions from the episode, providing an engaging and informative overview for listeners unfamiliar with the content.