Crime Junkie Podcast Episode Summary
Title: Mysterious Death of: Jeannette Bishop May & Gabriella Guerin
Host: Ashley Flowers
Release Date: June 30, 2025
Introduction
In this gripping episode of Crime Junkie, hosts Ashley Flowers and Britt delve into the enigmatic disappearance and subsequent death of Jeannette Bishop May and Gabriella Guerin in the snowy landscapes of Sarnano, Italy. The story intertwines elements of mystery, possible mafia involvement, and unanswered questions that have left families and investigators searching for decades.
Background of the Victims
Jeannette Bishop May, a 40-year-old interior designer originally from London, had recently purchased a country house near Sarnano, an idyllic medieval hilltop village turned ski resort. Accompanying her was Gabriella Guerin, a 39-year-old local who served as Jeannette’s translator. Their close-knit relationship was evident, with Jeannette being the godmother to Gabriella's daughter.
Quote:
Ashley Flowers [04:49]: "So one is and one isn't 40 year old Jeanette Bishop May. She lives in London normally, but she just bought a country house nearby."
The Disappearance
On Sunday, November 30, 1980, amidst a burgeoning snowstorm, Nazareno Vinonzi, a local surveyor, became concerned when he hadn't heard from the two women after their meeting the previous day. Despite his warnings about the impending storm, Jeannette and Gabriella had planned a drive into the mountains. Twenty-four hours later, with the storm in full force, Vinonzi reported them missing.
Quote:
Ashley Flowers [02:25]: "This is the story of Jeanette Bishop May and Gabriella Guer."
Initial Investigation and Search Efforts
Police launched a comprehensive search involving helicopters, dogs, and volunteers. The women’s car, a dark-colored hatchback from Siena, was a crucial lead. Witnesses reported sightings of the car and the women heading towards the mountains, but inconsistent accounts muddled the investigation.
Quote:
Ashley Flowers [07:17]: "But if she changed, she at some point in time had to go back to like where they were staying to change her clothes."
Mysterious Telegrams and Art Heist Connection
The plot thickened when a handwritten note was discovered in the women’s room, followed by a telegram addressed to "Janine May" from Rome, signed by someone named Roland. Simultaneously, another telegram linked to a major art theft at Christie's in Rome suggested a possible connection between the women’s disappearance and organized crime or art theft operations.
Quote:
Ashley Flowers [19:02]: "All this thing says is, I am waiting for you."
Suspects and Red Herrings
Investigators explored various leads, including a questionable director at Christie’s found to possess illegal firearms and narcotics. However, concrete evidence tying him to the disappearance was lacking. Additional suspects, such as a Brazilian gem dealer accused of false claims, further complicated the case without providing substantial breakthroughs.
Quote:
Britt [15:43]: "Like, how would all the searchers miss that?"
Discovery of the Car and Evidence
Nearly three weeks after the disappearance, on December 18th, the women's car was found partially buried in snow. Inside, valuables and keys remained, and the car appeared to have been intentionally abandoned. Nearby, signs of temporary sheltering were discovered, including ashes and burnt furniture, suggesting they might have sought refuge during the storm.
Quote:
Ashley Flowers [29:03]: "It's our best iPhone offer ever. Switch to T Mobile."
Theories and Reopened Investigation
Over time, discrepancies in witness testimonies and emerging connections to the art heist led police to suspect foul play rather than an accidental death by exposure. A significant lead involved Sergio Vaccari, an Italian antiques and drug dealer linked to both the Christie's heist and suspicious activities surrounding Roberto Calvi, a Vatican-backed banker found dead under mysterious circumstances.
Quote:
Britt [36:54]: "Which, don't get me wrong, I would love to go back to these telegrams."
Recent Developments and Case Reopening
After decades of little progress, the case was reopened in November 2024 as a double murder investigation. New inconsistencies in earlier witness statements prompted a reevaluation of all existing theories. Advances in forensic technology allowed for further analysis of physical evidence, although key remains were already cremated or unidentifiable.
Quote:
Ashley Flowers [68:39]: "Steven is still alive, as is Gabriella's daughter Joya."
Unanswered Questions and Ongoing Mysteries
Despite reopened investigations and new theories, many questions remain unanswered:
- Why did the women leave their car in nearly safe conditions?
- What was the true nature of the telegrams, and who sent them?
- Is there a direct link between the disappearance and the Christie's art heist?
- Could there be additional undiscovered evidence or suspects still at large?
Quote:
Britt [58:44]: "So they're just getting out of their car into the white void of a snowstorm, which is bananas bonkers."
Conclusion
The mysterious case of Jeannette Bishop May and Gabriella Guerin remains one of Italy’s enduring unsolved mysteries. With connections to high-profile art thefts and potential organized crime involvement, the disappearance continues to baffle investigators and haunt the families involved. As the podcast highlights, the quest for truth persists, urging anyone with information to come forward in hopes of finally unveiling the reality behind this cold case.
Final Appeal:
Britt [70:11]: "If anyone listening has information about Janette and Gabriella's case, it is not too late to come forward."
Call to Action
Listeners are encouraged to support ongoing investigations by providing any pertinent information to local authorities in Italy. The podcast directs individuals to contact the local prosecutor's office, with all necessary contact details available in the show notes.
This comprehensive examination by Crime Junkie not only recounts the timeline of events but also dissects the complexities and false leads that have hindered the resolution of this case. The episode serves as a testament to the relentless pursuit of justice and the enduring hope for closure.