Cold Case Files: REOPENED – Beauty Queen Killer

Hosted by Paula Barros for A&E / PodcastOne

Introduction

In the gripping episode titled "REOPENED: Beauty Queen Killer," Cold Case Files delves into the unsolved murder of Tanna Woolley, a promising young woman whose life was tragically cut short in 1978. Hosted by Paula Barros and produced by a dedicated team, the episode explores the relentless pursuit of justice by Tanna’s family and the eventual resolution of a case that had lain dormant for over two decades.

Background of Tanna Woolley

Tanna Woolley was a vibrant and ambitious teenager, admired for her intelligence and beauty. Passionate about cheerleading, she demonstrated resilience and determination, evident when she persevered to win the Miss Roseman Community Pageant after not securing the Homecoming queen title in high school.

“Tana was a responsible person and was never late to work. And she definitely never skipped a day without calling.”
— Tanna’s Father, Bill Curtis [03:05]

After graduating high school, Tanna pursued higher education and secured a job at a local Air Force base. Embracing adulthood, she moved into her own apartment, a decision that would unfortunately place her in harm's way.

Initial Investigation

On October 25, 1978, Tanna failed to report to her shift at work, prompting her concerned boss to notify her mother, Helen Woolley. Upon visiting Tanna’s apartment, Helen discovered a horrifying scene: Tanna was found hanging over her bed, partially undressed, with one sock on her foot and another tied around her neck.

“When I pulled up, her car was there. I opened the door, and the first thing I saw was her. And I didn't go any further.”
— Helen Woolley [03:05]

The autopsy revealed that Tanna died from strangulation, with evidence suggesting she was sexually assaulted. However, the forensic technology of the time was limited, rendering the investigation initially bleak with no tangible leads.

“If there's no witnesses, there's no real suspects. All you're looking for is to find the guy that would do something like this.”
— Bill Curtis [04:05]

Private Detective's Involvement

Frustrated with the slow progress of the official investigation, Tanna’s parents enlisted the help of private detective Lou McNatt. McNatt’s investigation led him to Larry Hayslett, a neighbor described by several residents as "the building creep." Hayslett’s close proximity to Tanna’s apartment and his unsettling behavior made him a prime suspect.

“There was a big window so he could sit there and watch by the hour. Then he has a lot of time to spend.”
— Helen Woolley [05:28]

Despite identifying Hazlett as a likely suspect, McNatt faced a dead end when Hazlett abruptly left town five months after Tanna’s murder, effectively stalling any immediate action.

“He just wasn't there. He was gone. And once he's gone, there's nothing else to do.”
— Helen Woolley [06:37]

With the case slipping into cold status, hope began to dwindle for the Woolley family.

Case Goes Cold

Years passed without any significant developments. Detective turnover meant that each new investigator had to restart the investigation from scratch, leading to stagnation.

“Each new detective that was given the case would have to start off from Square 1.”
— Helen Woolley [10:46]

Despite these setbacks, Helen and Bill Woolley remained steadfast in their quest for justice, believing that perseverance would eventually pay off.

“As long as everybody believes that there is hope, you know, then you can press on.”
— Helen Woolley [07:52]

Reopening the Case

In 1999, over two decades after the murder, Tanna’s sister, Taryn Woolley, took up the mantle to advance the investigation. Persistently contacting Sergeant Chris Spear led to a renewed examination of the case files.

“We had to actually go back 31 years and retrace where they moved, where they lived, what their names were.”
— Prosecutor Ed Jeggles [20:44]

DNA Evidence Breakthrough

Sergeant Spear’s review uncovered a previous request for Larry Hazlett’s fingerprints and revealed Hazlett’s extensive criminal history, including four rape arrests. This information revitalized the investigation, prompting the collection of DNA samples from Hazlett.

“I've never been more excited, probably on any of the other cases that I've looked at.”
— DNA Analyst Brenda Smith [13:57]

Although the initial semen sample from Tanna was too degraded for DNA testing, further forensic analysis identified additional biological evidence on Tanna’s bedspread. This breakthrough provided a crucial link to Hazlett.

“He ended up matching Hazlett. The odds that the sample didn't belong to Hazlett were only 1 in 126 billion.”
— Bill Curtis [14:13]

Arrest and Trial

Confronted with irrefutable DNA evidence, Hazlett maintained his innocence during interrogation. However, the compelling forensic data and multiple testimonies from his past victims left little room for doubt.

“You're certain? That's a damn lie.”
— Helen Woolley [15:49]

Prosecutor Jeggles and private investigator Trent Sprouls gathered further evidence, including testimonies from four women who confirmed Hazlett’s pattern of violent sexual assaults. This comprehensive approach solidified the case against him.

On June 10, 2004, after a week-long trial and brief deliberation, the jury convicted Larry Hazlett of first-degree murder. He was subsequently sentenced to death.

“We were very happy.”
— Helen Woolley [23:46]

Aftermath

While the sentencing brought a semblance of closure, it could never replace the loss of Tanna. However, it underscored the importance of relentless determination in pursuing justice.

“Whatever they do, they can't give up. They've got to keep pressing the law enforcement, which my family did. And it paid off.”
— Helen Woolley [24:20]

Larry Hazlett awaits his sentence at San Quentin State Prison, condemned to death without the possibility of parole. The Woolley family’s unwavering commitment not only solved a heart-wrenching mystery but also reaffirmed that persistence can triumph over adversity.

Conclusion

"REOPENED: Beauty Queen Killer" serves as a testament to the enduring quest for justice and the pivotal role that advances in forensic technology can play in solving long-forgotten cases. Through the resilience of Tanna Woolley’s family and the dedication of investigators, this cold case was finally put to rest, offering a powerful narrative of hope and closure.

Notable Quotes:

• “Tanna was never late to work. She never skipped a day without calling.”
  Bill Curtis [03:05]

• “There was a big window so he could sit there and watch by the hour.”
  Helen Woolley [05:28]

• “If there's no witnesses, there's no real suspects.”
  Bill Curtis [04:05]

• “He ended up matching Hazlett. The odds that the sample didn't belong to Hazlett were only 1 in 126 billion.”
  Bill Curtis [14:13]

• “Whatever they do, they can't give up.”
  Helen Woolley [24:20]

Produced by McKamey, Lynn and Steve Delamater. Special thanks to associate producer Julie McGruder and executive producer Ted Butler. Music by Blake Maples. Distributed by PodcastOne.