Cold Case Files: “Sooner State Nightmare” – Detailed Summary
Introduction to the Case
“Sooner State Nightmare” delves into the harrowing 1992 disappearance of Wendy Camp, her six-year-old daughter Cynthia Brito, and sister-in-law Lisa Kreger in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Hosted by Marissa Pinson and Paula Barros, the episode chronicles the relentless pursuit of justice for one of America’s most enduring cold cases.
The Disappearance (May 29, 1992)
On May 29, 1992, Wendy Camp, her daughter Cynthia, and Lisa Kreger were set to visit Wendy’s ex-husband, Chad Ngo, in Shamrock, Oklahoma. Wendy, who suffered from multiple sclerosis (MS), was eager to see her young son, Jonathan, after a prolonged custody battle. Chad arranged for his mother, Beverly Ngo, to drive Wendy and the children to Shamrock, accompanied by Lisa to ensure Wendy’s safety due to her medical condition.
At approximately 4:40 PM, after a seemingly uneventful visit, Wendy made a call to her husband Leon, informing him they were heading home. However, by 8:00 PM, Wendy, Cynthia, and Lisa had not returned. Leon immediately grew concerned, especially given Wendy’s dependency on daily MS medication, which, if missed, could result in severe health complications or even death.
Initial Investigation and Family Despair
The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) launched an extensive search involving local police, aerial surveillance, and ground deputies. Despite interviewing all individuals present at the shopping mall drop-off point and nearby businesses, no leads emerged.
Wendy's family described her as a vibrant, multi-talented individual and Cynthia as an inquisitive and energetic child. Lisa was remembered as a sweet and docile sister-in-law. Their disappearance sparked immense anguish within the family, with relatives recounting their daily struggles and relentless hope for their safe return.
Notable Quote:
Wendy's Family Member (00:37): "I desperately wanted to get them back. A feverish, almost obsessive hope." (00:55)
Suspicions and Potential Leads
Chad Ngo, Wendy’s ex-husband, immediately became a person of interest due to the ongoing custody battle and his apparent anger over the situation. Investigators scrutinized Chad’s activities and statements, but despite extensive interviews and searches of his home, no concrete evidence linked him to the disappearance.
Meanwhile, Beverly Ngo, Chad’s mother, emerged as a questionable figure. Although initially cooperative, inconsistencies in her statements raised red flags. Authorities considered her a suspect primarily due to the custody conflict and her last known interaction with Wendy, Cynthia, and Lisa.
Notable Quote:
Law Enforcement Officer (14:04): "Chad wanted custody of and Wendy had wanted custody and so they were fighting over him." (14:37)
The Case Goes Cold
Months passed without any breakthroughs. The absence of surveillance footage, combined with the lack of witnesses, left investigators with limited information. Beverly Ngo's unexplained behavior and potential motives remained subjects of suspicion, but without substantial proof, the case stalled.
Notable Quote:
Law Enforcement Officer (15:30): "It was very frustrating because we could not develop any evidence that could tell us what had happened." (15:26)
Renewed Efforts and Discovery of Remains
In 2011, nearly two decades after the disappearance, a significant lead emerged following the death of Ida Pruitt, Beverly Ngo’s mother. A relative provided information suggesting that the bodies might be buried under a cement slab at a property once owned by Grover Pruitt, Ida’s son and Beverly’s brother.
OSBI agents meticulously excavated the site, uncovering the remains of Wendy, Cynthia, and Lisa. The discovery included personal belongings matching their descriptions, such as Cynthia’s tennis shoes and Wendy's medical card, solidifying the tragic outcome of the case.
Notable Quote:
Law Enforcement Officer (29:00): "And since it was dug for a septic tank, this hole was 8ft deep." (29:00)
Legal Proceedings and Challenges
With the remains identified, investigators sought to hold Beverly Ngo accountable. Grover Pruitt, Beverly’s brother, was approached to wear a wire during an interview, leading to recorded statements that implicated Beverly. Despite these efforts, the evidence against her remained circumstantial. Prosecutors faced challenges in securing a first-degree murder conviction due to the lack of direct evidence linking Beverly to the killings.
Ultimately, Beverly pleaded guilty to three counts of accessory to murder, blaming Ida Pruitt. However, the conviction did not provide the closure the family desperately sought, especially as Jonathan remained under Beverly’s care.
Notable Quote:
Law Enforcement Officer (34:20): "Who actually killed these three girls? It could have been Beverly or Ada, either one. But Ada had died." (34:20)
Outcome and Family Reactions
Beverly Ngo’s early release in 2020, after serving four and a half years, left the family feeling that justice had not been fully served. The prolonged agony of losing loved ones without definitive answers intensified their grief and frustration.
Leon Ngo, Wendy’s husband, expressed a sense of incomplete justice, mourning the loss of his wife, sister, and niece while grappling with the absence of concrete accountability. The episode poignantly captures the enduring pain and longing of a family left shattered by unresolved tragedy.
Notable Quote:
Wendy's Family Member (35:28): "I feel that my family members got no justice whatsoever simply because of the fact Beverly is out of jail after four and a half years." (35:28)
Conclusion
“Sooner State Nightmare” is a compelling exploration of a family's relentless quest for truth and justice in the face of unimaginable loss. Through detailed narration, emotional testimonies, and investigative insights, the episode underscores the complexities and frustrations inherent in solving cold cases. It serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact such tragedies have on families and communities.
Notable Quote:
Wendy's Family Member (36:23): "If I had a chance to just spend some time with Wendy and Cynthia, I would just say, I love you, and you really impacted my entire life. I'm grateful and I never quit loving you." (36:04)
Final Thoughts
The “Sooner State Nightmare” episode not only sheds light on a tragic unsolved case but also highlights the broader issues surrounding cold cases in America, where one-third of murders remain unresolved. It emphasizes the critical role of persistent investigation and advancements in forensic technology in bringing closure to families long grieving their lost loved ones.