Crime Junkie Podcast Episode Summary: "MURDERED: Lyric Cook-Morrissey & Elizabeth Collins"

Release Date: November 18, 2024

Hosts: Ashley Flowers and Britt Larson

Introduction to the Case

At the outset of the episode, Ashley Flowers introduces the harrowing case of Lyric Cook-Morrissey and Elizabeth Collins, two young girls abducted and murdered in Evansdale, Iowa. The case has lingered without resolution for nearly five years, raising persistent questions and concerns within the community.

Key Points:

• Lyric Cook-Morrissey (10) and Elizabeth Collins (9) were last seen on July 13, 2012, during a hot Friday afternoon.
• The girls were babysitting, and Heather Collins, Elizabeth's mother, was rushing home to relieve the babysitter, her own mother, Wilma.
• Upon returning home, Heather discovers that her daughter Elizabeth is not present, and Wilma informs her that Elizabeth is on a bike ride with Lyric.

The Disappearance and Initial Search Efforts

As time passes without the girls' return, panic sets in. Heather, along with her husband Drew and daughter Misty, begins searching the neighborhood, knocking on doors and scouring local areas.

Notable Quote:

• Ashley Flowers [01:54]: "The defense has just rested and closing arguments are about to begin. Which means that this eight-year-long fight might be coming to an end."

The Collins family soon discovers two bicycles near Meyers Lake, a mile from their home, indicating that the girls were indeed on their bikes and possibly near the lake.

Key Points:

• The bicycles are found on a peninsula jutting into Meyers Lake, with the gate unexpectedly wide open.
• Drew Collins identifies the bikes as his daughters' at [03:43].
• Initial assumptions suggest a possible swimming accident, but the lack of personal items like shoes near the bikes casts doubt.

Escalation of the Investigation

Despite extensive searches, including ground searches and efforts to drag the lake, no immediate evidence is found. The community rallies, and volunteer searchers increase efforts, but the girls remain missing.

Key Points:

• Misty Collins’ Determination [08:14]: The family fears that the focus on the lake might be misplaced, leading to a broader search.
• Tensions rise between investigators and the families, especially when Misty takes matters into her own hands to search the island in the lake.

Emergence of Potential Suspects

As the investigation continues, suspicion shifts toward individuals with criminal backgrounds. Michael Klunder emerges as a potential suspect due to his history and familiarity with the secluded Seven Bridges Wildlife Area, a preferred dumping ground for criminals.

Key Points:

• Michael Klunder's extensive criminal history includes multiple assaults and attempted abductions.
• Klunder’s connection to Seven Bridges and his escape from a juvenile detention facility raise red flags.
• Despite circumstantial evidence, such as his presence near the area and his modus operandi, authorities eventually rule him out based on his cellphone pinging 100 miles away during the abductions [35:34].

Notable Quote:

• Drew Collins [21:46]: "It's really painful because when you don't know where they're at for five months and then they find them, you feel relieved and then you feel guilty and that crushes you because you are relieved that they're at least found, but then you've got guilt. It's the worst thing."

Linking to Other Cases

The podcast delves into similarities between Lyric and Elizabeth's abductions and other double abduction cases in Iowa and nationwide, highlighting a disturbing pattern of such rare crimes.

Key Points:

• Double abductions are exceedingly rare, with only 16 cases nationwide since the 1970s.
• All Iowa double abductions from 1991 onward are concentrated within a specific timeframe, suggesting a pattern.
• The Dayton abductions mirror the Collins case, involving similar victim profiles and methodologies.

Challenges in the Investigation

The investigation faces numerous obstacles, including:

• Limited surveillance footage from 2012, making it difficult to track the girls' movements.
• The rare nature of double abductions leading to fewer established protocols or suspects.
• Emotional strain on the Collins family, contributing to strained relationships and heightened desperation for answers.

Notable Quote:

• Britt [35:12]: "No way. He’s ruled him out completely."

Community and Family Impact

The tragedy profoundly affects the Collins family and the Evansdale community. Heather and Drew establish the Elizabeth Collins Foundation to support other families with missing loved ones, advocating for child safety and trafficking awareness.

Key Points:

• Evansdale dedicates Angel’s Memorial Island in memory of Lyric, Elizabeth, and other victims.
• The Collins family experiences marital strain due to differing grieving processes but remains united in their mission for justice.

Ongoing Efforts and Call to Action

Despite advancements in the case, the episode emphasizes that justice remains elusive for the Collins family. Ashley and Britt encourage listeners to aid in the investigation by submitting any relevant information.

Key Points:

• Crime Junkie urges listeners to contact authorities if they possess any information about Lyric Cook-Morrissey and Elizabeth Collins.
• The Elizabeth Collins Foundation continues its work in raising awareness and supporting affected families.

Notable Quote:

• Ashley Flowers [53:00]: "But they also both found a focus for their grief. And there's still a team when it comes to keeping Elizabeth's memory alive."

Conclusion

Ashley Flowers and Britt Larson wrap up the episode by honoring the Collins family’s resilience and dedication to uncovering the truth. They acknowledge the community's support and remind listeners of the ongoing need for vigilance and assistance in solving cold cases.

Available Resources:

• ElizabethCollinsFoundation.org: Support the foundation’s mission.
• Tips: Email missing Iowa girls at DPS State IA US or text 274637 with the word "cedar."

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• Website: crimejunkiepodcast.com
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This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key elements of the "MURDERED: Lyric Cook-Morrissey & Elizabeth Collins" episode, providing listeners with an in-depth understanding of the case, the investigative challenges, and the enduring impact on the community and the Collins family.