Dark Downeast Podcast Summary
Episode: REMEMBERING: The Disappearance of Kristopher Bryan Lewis
Host: Kylie Lowe
Release Date: June 19, 2025
Introduction
In this poignant episode of Dark Downeast, investigative journalist and storyteller Kylie Lowe delves into the heartbreaking and unresolved case of Christopher Bryan Lewis, a 13-year-old boy who disappeared on February 4, 2014, from the Mattapan neighborhood of Boston. Through heartfelt interviews and thorough research, the episode sheds light on the struggles faced by Christopher's family and the ongoing quest for answers.
Background of Christopher Bryan Lewis
Christopher Bryan Lewis was a bright and independent young boy, known for his academic excellence and passion for football. On the morning of February 4, 2014, Christopher left school as usual but never returned home, marking the beginning of a frantic search that has remained unresolved for nearly a decade.
Notable Quote:
"Christopher was always independent and wanted to handle things on his own. He kept to himself, but had a close group of friends." — Nina Cancel Rogers (Christopher’s Mother) [06:13]
The Day of Disappearance
Christopher's disappearance occurred under seemingly ordinary circumstances. On that February day, he attended school, interacted normally, and left without any prior indication of trouble. Nina Cancel Rogers, his mother, recalls the moment he expressed his desire to walk to the bus stop independently, a sign of his growing independence.
Notable Quote:
"He got up from school, walked with his bus stop. That was the day he was just like, mom, you need to stop walking me to the bus stop. I'm too big for this." — Nina Cancel Rogers [11:35]
Family Dynamics and Christopher’s Character
Christopher was beloved by his family and peers. His mother describes him as a "trier" who sought out his passions, eventually finding joy in football despite her initial reservations. His caring nature was evident in his desire to support his mother financially in the future.
Notable Quote:
"He was awesome at school. Everything that he did, he excelled at it." — Nina Cancel Rogers [06:23]
The Search and Initial Response
After realizing Christopher was missing, Nina and her family took immediate action. However, their efforts were met with indifference and dismissiveness from local law enforcement, exacerbating their anguish. The initial police response lacked empathy and failed to prioritize Christopher's safe return.
Notable Quote:
"When they came, the cop didn't want to come into the house because we had a pit bull." — Nina Cancel Rogers [16:37]
"The detective that was on his case, he was so rude and so disrespectful." — Nina Cancel Rogers [18:24]
Media and Public Awareness Efforts
Facing inadequate support from authorities, Nina turned to social media and local media outlets to raise awareness about Christopher's disappearance. These grassroots efforts were crucial in keeping his case in the public eye, albeit after significant struggle.
Notable Quote:
"I posted on social media... we finally did get a story on him." — Nina Cancel Rogers [20:16]
Challenges Faced by the Family
The family's journey has been fraught with emotional and systemic challenges. Racial biases played a role in how Christopher's case was initially perceived by authorities, with assumptions about gang involvement overshadowing the reality of a missing child.
Notable Quote:
"The favoritism of the race is another thing that factors in as well." — Nina Cancel Rogers [22:09]
Ongoing Investigation and Hope for Answers
Nine years later, the case remains open, now handled by Detective Kevin McLemoyle, who has rekindled Nina's hope through more diligent and respectful engagement. Despite the lack of closure, the family's resilience continues as they hold onto the possibility of finding Christopher.
Notable Quote:
"So there's a new detective on his case and he's actually pretty good. He calls me, he gives me updates." — Nina Cancel Rogers [29:10]
Impact on the Family
Christopher's disappearance has had a profound and lasting impact on his family, particularly on his mother, Nina, who continues to navigate the hardships of uncertainty while striving to support her other children.
Notable Quote:
"It's hard for me to move forward. It's hard for me to let the kids I have now go." — Nina Cancel Rogers [29:10]
Conclusion
Kylie Lowe's heartfelt narrative in this episode underscores the enduring pain of a family still seeking answers after years of uncertainty. Dark Downeast not only honors Christopher Bryan Lewis's memory but also highlights the broader issues within missing persons investigations, especially concerning racial biases and systemic inefficiencies.
Call to Action: The episode concludes with a plea for public assistance in finding Christopher, urging anyone with information to contact the Boston Police Department.
Additional Resources
- Missing Poster & Age Progression Photo: Accessible via the episode's description.
- Contact Information: Boston Police Department at 617-343-4687.
- Podcast Follow: Dark Downeast on Instagram
Dark Downeast continues its mission to bring light to overlooked and unresolved true crime cases, honoring the lives of those still awaiting justice.