Dateline NBC: The Haunted House Confession Episode Release Date: March 4, 2025

Introduction In "The Haunted House Confession," NBC News delves into the harrowing true-crime story of Shantae Blankenship, whose mysterious disappearance and brutal murder shook her quiet lakeside community. This detailed investigation uncovers the relentless pursuit of justice by law enforcement and the profound impact on Shantae’s family and neighbors.

The Disappearance On Friday, May 13, 2016, Shantae Blankenship, a vibrant 25-year-old from Lake Brownwood, Texas, went missing during her usual evening walk by the lake. Shantae was known for her radiant smile and active involvement in her community and church. Her disappearance was first reported by her grandfather and later by her mother, Michelle McDaniel, after noticing that Shantae’s purse remained untouched at home ([05:14] Stephen McDaniel).

The Investigation Begins The tight-knit community swiftly mobilized to search for Shantae. Hundreds of volunteers gathered for a search organized by the North Lake Community Church, where Shantae regularly attended and found solace. Despite exhaustive efforts, Shantae remained missing for nearly 48 hours ([06:25] Stephen McDaniel).

Discovery of the Body On Sunday afternoon, Shantae’s body was discovered in an abandoned farmhouse locally known as the "haunted house." The scene was gruesome: Shantae had suffered severe blunt force trauma, sexual assault, and numerous physical injuries, indicating a violent and premeditated murder ([07:20] Blaine Alexander). Investigators, led by Sheriff Scott Byrd and Texas Ranger Jason Shea, immediately identified the case as a murder.

Initial Suspects: John Adams and Colin Smith The investigation initially focused on John Adams, Shantae’s live-in boyfriend, citing his controlling behavior and strained relationship ([33:35] Blaine Alexander). However, John provided a verifiable alibi supported by security footage from his workplace, clearing him of suspicion ([44:32] Blaine Alexander). The next focus shifted to Colin Smith, a neighbor with a troubled past, who had interacted with Shantae on the night she disappeared. Despite initial cooperation, Colin’s DNA did not match the evidence at the crime scene ([54:27] Jason Shea).

The Phenotyping Breakthrough Frustrated by dead ends, Investigator Byrd proposed using a cutting-edge DNA technique called phenotyping, which predicts physical characteristics from DNA samples. Skeptical at first, the team eventually secured funding to employ this technology through a Virginia Tech company, Parabon ([63:57] Michelle McDaniel). Five months later, Parabon produced a facial sketch based on Shantae’s DNA, which was shared publicly in hopes of eliciting recognition ([65:25] Jason Shea).

Identification and Confession The phenotypic sketch did not initially ring any bells within the community. However, Shantae’s half-brother, Cutter, identified the sketch as resembling Ryan Riggs, a local church member who had previously bullied Cutter in school ([67:30] Stephen McDaniel). Upon verification via social media, Riggs’s likeness matched the sketch perfectly, prompting him to come forward during a church service. Standing before the congregation, Riggs confessed to Shantae’s murder, describing his methodical and emotionless actions ([77:45] Blaine Alexander).

Riggs’ Account Riggs recounted his disturbing actions: meeting Shantae for a ride, strangling her in the truck, sexually assaulting her, and ultimately murdering her with a lawnmower blade ([84:23] Blaine Alexander). His confession was coldly delivered, lacking remorse and detailing his violent impulses ([86:26] Jason Shea).

Aftermath and Sentencing Ryan Riggs was charged with capital murder in Texas, facing the death penalty. However, after discussions with Shantae’s family, Riggs accepted a plea deal for a life sentence without parole, providing some closure to the devastated community ([88:59] Michelle McDaniel).

Emotional Impact on the Community Shantae’s family and the community grappled with grief and betrayal. Her mother, Michelle McDaniel, expressed that the closure provided by Riggs’s sentencing allowed the community to heal, while lamenting that Riggs remains alive to witness his continued separation from the community he tarnished ([89:16] Scott Byrd, [89:22] Stephen McDaniel). The church, once a sanctuary, became a poignant site of both loss and forgiveness as Shantae’s loved ones struggled to reconcile Riggs’s presence during a service where he confessed his crimes ([77:45] Linda Lamond).

Conclusion "The Haunted House Confession" is a compelling narrative of tragedy, relentless investigation, and the quest for justice. Through innovative forensic techniques and unwavering determination, law enforcement brought closure to Shantae Blankenship’s family and restored a sense of safety to their community. The episode underscores the profound emotional toll of such crimes and the enduring strength of those left behind.

Notable Quotes

• Linda Lamond on Shantae’s Impact:

  "She would show up sometimes before the pastor. She loved the love we gave her." ([01:01])

• Jason Shea on the Investigation Difficulty:

  "He was just driving around looking for her." ([07:20])

• John Adams During Interrogation:

  "I smoke weed, and I just don't want that. That's one thing that would be in." ([40:05])

• Ryan Riggs’ Confession:

  "I just put my left arm around her and began to strangle her. And whenever she had passed out, I took her clothes off and I raped her." ([84:23])

• Michelle McDaniel on Closure:

  "It was important for our community to have closure and the finality of being able to tell everyone. We are guaranteed that he will remain in prison." ([88:59])

Emotional Reflections

Shantae’s family and community members poignantly reflect on their loss:

• Stephen McDaniel:

  "To me, that would have been an easy way out. Easy for him." ([88:49])

• Destiny Jarvis on Remembering Shantae:

  "I want people to remember her singing at the choir, walking down the street, waving at people. That's how everybody needs to remember her." ([90:07])

Final Thoughts

The episode not only narrates a tragic event but also highlights the advancements in forensic science and the unwavering spirit of a community united in seeking justice. Shantae’s legacy lives on through the memories of those who loved her and the closure achieved through the diligent efforts of investigators.