Dateline NBC: "The Intruder" Release Date: August 5, 2025
Introduction
In the August 5, 2025 episode of Dateline NBC titled "The Intruder," host Lester Holt delves into a harrowing true-crime story that intertwines love, deception, and a violent home invasion. This comprehensive episode unpacks the complex investigation that spanned multiple states, leading to a dramatic courtroom showdown and profound personal tragedies.
The Night of the Shooting
December 18, 2014, 2:47 AM
The tranquility of Sun Saco, Maine, is shattered when Rachel Owens is violently attacked in her home. At [00:47], the episode recounts the desperate 911 call:
“Dec. 18, 2014, 2:47am A desperate call to 911: ‘Shot fired. People are dead. I'm shot.’”
The intruder, described as approximately 5'9" wearing a balaclava and carrying a gun in his right hand, bursts into the home, resulting in Rachel being shot three times—once in the shoulder, abdomen, and back of the head. Her husband, Greg Owens, grapples with the terrifying situation, unsure if the shooter is still inside.
Initial Investigation
Special Agent Pam Flick of the FBI takes lead on the case. Upon arrival, police find Greg Owens wounded but conscious, informing them about the two women inside—his wife Rachel and a friend from out of town. Despite the immediate response, no intruder is found at the scene, raising suspicions about the nature of the attack.
Greg Owens expresses genuine shock and confusion:
“Why would somebody do this? Do you know anybody that would want to hurt your wife?” ([02:15])
Wayne Owens, Rachel's son, reflects on his mother's character:
“Describe your mom for us. Very caring and loving. She's warm. She's. And extremely optimistic.” ([05:40])
Greg's background as a decorated veteran and his subsequent work with private military contractors adds layers to the investigation, hinting at potential motives tied to his past.
Unraveling Greg Owens' Double Life
As the investigation deepens, inconsistencies in Greg's alibi come to light. He claims to have been working on a proposal at home in New Hampshire during the time of the shooting. However, forensic evidence begins to piece together a different narrative.
Betsy Wandke, the founder of the Warrior Princess Training Academy in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, becomes a pivotal figure. Her testimony reveals a five-year tumultuous relationship with Greg, marked by deception and manipulation.
Betsy recounts discovering Greg's deceit:
“I know you're in New Hampshire and I know that you're with Rachel. And he said, no, you must have heard a satellite call that I was making to her. And I said, don't lie to me.” ([38:20])
This revelation shifts the investigation towards the possibility that Greg might have orchestrated the attack to frame Rachel and eliminate her as an obstacle in his relationship with Betsy.
The Trial
In January 2016, Greg Owens faces federal charges for crossing state lines to commit a crime of domestic violence. The prosecution builds its case on a combination of circumstantial evidence:
- Shell Casings: Identified as WCC 1987, matching those found at the crime scene ([30:10]).
- Footprint and Physical Evidence: A footprint left in a flower bed and a ski mask found in Greg's possession align with the intruder's description.
- DNA Evidence: Greg's DNA was fatally linked through a hair strand found on the window glass ([45:50]).
- Alibi Contradictions: Surveillance footage captures Greg at a Dunkin' Donuts in New Hampshire at the time of the shooting, which seemed to corroborate his alibi ([52:30]). However, forensic analysis later reveals he tampered with his computer's timestamp to falsely support his alibi ([55:15]).
During the trial, Rachel Owens bravely testifies, sharing her experience and ultimately confirming Greg as her attacker:
“Did you think that Greg was capable of doing something like that?” ([1:10:00])
“Yes, he did. He says, greg shot me.” ([1:12:45])
Despite the defense's efforts to undermine the prosecution's case by highlighting Greg's unverified alibi and absence of direct evidence, the jury finds Greg Owens guilty after only three hours of deliberation.
Aftermath
Rachel Owens survives her near-fatal injuries and begins her journey of physical and emotional recovery. Her son, Wayne, and Betsy Wandke grapple with the fallout of Greg's deceit and the loss of trust in their personal relationships.
Betsy expresses remorse over being deceived by someone she admired and who contradicted her mission to combat violence against women:
“It is the ultimate irony because he knows I have fought for women's rights and. And then he does this.” ([1:25:30])
Rachel, supported by her family and recovering from her trauma, reflects on the ordeal:
“I have no doubt that he loved Rachel. I do believe he loved me. I think that he was just narcissistic enough to believe that he could have both lives.” ([1:28:15])
Conclusion
"The Intruder" encapsulates a gripping narrative of betrayal and the quest for justice. Through meticulous investigation and courageous testimonies, Dateline NBC unveils the dark undercurrents of human relationships and the lengths individuals may go to in pursuit of personal desires. Rachel Owens' resilience and the community's response underscore the profound impact of such crimes on victims and their loved ones.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
-
Greg Owens on Targeting Loved Ones:
“I think somebody is targeting the people I love. She’s told by him. Deny you know me to anybody.” ([00:55]) -
Wayne Owens on His Mother:
“Describe your mom for us. Very caring and loving. She's warm. She's. And extremely optimistic.” ([05:40]) -
Betsy Wandke Confronting Greg:
“I know you're in New Hampshire and I know that you're with Rachel. And he said, no, you must have heard a satellite call that I was making to her. And I said, don't lie to me.” ([38:20]) -
Rachel Owens Confirming the Shooter:
“Greg shot me.” ([1:12:45]) -
Betsy on Being Deceived:
“It is the ultimate irony because he knows I have fought for women's rights and. And then he does this.” ([1:25:30])
This detailed summary captures the essence of Dateline NBC's "The Intruder," providing a comprehensive overview for both longtime listeners and new audiences seeking to understand the intricacies of this true-crime narrative.