Dark Downeast: The Murder of Declan Lyons (Vermont) Release Date: February 13, 2025

Introduction

In this gripping episode of Dark Downeast, investigative journalist Kylie Lowe delves into the unresolved case of Declan Lyons, a beloved organic farmer and cook whose untimely death has left his community searching for answers. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Waitsfield, Vermont, this true crime narrative explores the mysterious circumstances surrounding Declan's murder, the ensuing investigation, the controversial trial of Isaac Turnbaugh, and the lingering questions that persist over two decades later.

Declan Lyons: A Life Cut Short

On Friday, April 12, 2002, at approximately 2:00 PM, 24-year-old Declan Lyons was found dead in the courtyard of the Leroux Farm County Inn in Waitsfield, Vermont. Declan, known affectionately as the "Sauce Boss," was preparing sauce for American Flatbread’s wood-fired pizza using an open flame method he revered despite Vermont’s unpredictable weather ([02:19]). His dedication to his craft and his aspirations of starting an organic farm with his fiancée made his death all the more shocking to those who knew him.

The Mysterious Death and Initial Investigation

Declan’s colleagues reported hearing a loud popping sound followed by finding him with a severe head injury. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, but Declan was pronounced dead at Central Vermont Hospital in Berlin ([02:19]). Initial theories suggested a possible accident involving malfunctioning equipment, but an autopsy later revealed a single gunshot wound to the head, reclassifying Declan's death as a homicide ([02:19]).

Suspicion Falls on Isaac Turnbaugh

As detectives scoured the scene for clues, Isaac Turnbaugh, an 18-year-old employee at American Flatbread, emerged as a suspect. Despite no apparent motive or prior conflict with Declan, circumstantial evidence began to mount against Isaac:

• Access to a Firearm: Isaac was found to possess a .30-30 rifle on the day of the murder. Although he initially denied owning a gun, he later admitted to having one, claiming he feared Declan was involved with the FBI ([02:19]).

• Inconsistent Statements: Isaac provided conflicting alibis, first stating he was fishing and later claiming his car overheated, which was disproven by a receipt for antifreeze ([02:19]).

• Witness Accounts: Multiple witnesses described a well-dressed man with a duffel bag near the scene around the time of the shooting. Additionally, someone saw a person carrying a long object wrapped in cloth towards American Flatbread on the day of the murder ([02:19]).

• Admissions at a Party: In May 2002, during a party, Isaac allegedly confessed to a friend, saying, "I shot Declan. I feel like I shot Declan" ([02:19], [05:00]).

Despite these pieces of evidence, ballistic tests did not match the bullet used in Declan's death to any bullets found at Isaac’s home, leaving significant doubts ([02:19]).

The Trial of Isaac Turnbaugh

After nearly two years awaiting trial, Isaac was acquitted of first-degree murder in April 2004. The prosecution's case heavily relied on circumstantial evidence, while the defense highlighted Isaac's mental health struggles and lack of direct evidence:

• Prosecution's Argument: Emphasized the rifle found in Isaac’s possession, his inconsistent statements, and his alleged confession at a party ([02:19]).

• Defense's Strategy: Argued that Isaac's statements were out of context and influenced by his mental state, including psychosis and substance abuse. They also pointed to alternative suspects and the absence of physical evidence linking Isaac to the murder ([02:19], [27:56]).

Notably, during the trial, Isaac's father testified about Isaac's distorted beliefs, stating, "Isaac told me he was responsible for the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and for violence happening in the Middle East as well as the murder of Declan Lyons" ([02:19]).

After deliberating for five hours, the jury found Isaac not guilty, leaving Declan’s family without closure ([29:07]).

Aftermath and Continuing Questions

Post-trial, Isaac faced additional legal challenges, including a civil suit filed by Declan's family accusing him and his parents of negligence. These pressures exacerbated Isaac's mental health issues, leading to a violent incident in May 2004 where he smashed his family's home with a baseball bat and was subsequently evaluated as incompetent to stand trial for disorderly conduct ([29:07]).

In 2011, Isaac made another confession to the police, reiterating his admission of shooting Declan. However, due to double jeopardy laws and expired statutes of limitations, these confessions held no legal weight, leaving the case unresolved ([29:07]).

Impact on the Community and Declan’s Family

Declan's family continues to grapple with the lack of justice. His fiancée expressed, "Because of our child and because of our love for one another, we could have some joy. We think about Declan every day and we love Declan every day" ([29:07]). Meanwhile, law enforcement maintains that Isaac was the right person, despite the acquittal, leaving lingering doubts and unanswered questions about the true identity of Declan's killer.

Conclusion

The murder of Declan Lyons remains a haunting mystery within the New England true crime landscape. Dark Downeast underscores the complexities of the case, highlighting issues of mental health, the reliability of confessions, and the challenges of achieving justice in the absence of definitive evidence. As Declan's legacy lives on in the memories of those who loved him, the quest for truth and closure continues to echo through the serene landscapes of Vermont.

Notable Quotes

• George Schenck, Founder of American Flatbread: "Declan was a prince of a guy." ([02:19])

• Camilla Benn, VP of American Flatbread: "He was an incredible, sensitive cook. He was one of those absolutely sweet, kind and gentle souls." ([02:19])

• Isaac Turnbaugh upon Acquittal: "The truth shall set you free. Let's go home." ([29:07])

• Attorney General William Sorrell: "We had the right person. If I honestly thought we had the wrong person, I wouldn't have brought the case to the prosecution." ([29:07])

• Declan’s Fiancée: "When someone like that is taken, it can just complicate a lot of your beliefs about a just world and a fair world and a peaceful world." ([29:07])

Final Thoughts

The enduring mystery surrounding Declan Lyons' murder serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the complexities inherent in the pursuit of justice. Dark Downeast emphasizes the importance of remembering those lost to unsolved crimes, ensuring their stories remain heard and their legacies honored.