Devil in the Desert: Episode 2 – "A Neon Sign For Crime"
Released June 24, 2025 by ABC News
Introduction
In the gripping second episode of ABC News' true crime podcast series Devil in the Desert, titled "A Neon Sign For Crime," listeners delve deeper into the harrowing case that began in 2012 with the abduction of Michael and the murder of his wife, Mary Barnes. This episode meticulously unpacks the intricate web of relationships, criminal activities, and investigative breakthroughs that shaped the ongoing manhunt for the perpetrator.
The Initial Crime and Neighbor's Observation
The episode opens with a recount of the fateful afternoon on October 1, 2012. A vigilant neighbor becomes the linchpin in unraveling the mystery surrounding Michael's disappearance.
Matt Gutman [00:31]:
"On October 1, 2012, hours before Michael was kidnapped, one of his neighbors noticed something was off... A white truck with a big dent on its side. It was in the rear alley of Michael's house... she saw three men near the truck."
The neighbor's detailed observation includes the presence of three men acting suspiciously around Michael's residence, complete with a ladder seemingly out of place for any legitimate construction work.
Witness/Neighbor [01:15]:
"Yeah, there was a lot of noise. And I'm going, what in the heck?" [01:19]
Her description painted a picture of staged activity, raising immediate red flags for the authorities.
The Investigation Begins
Detective Ryan Peters takes the lead in following this initial lead, focusing on the provided license plate number that could potentially unlock the mystery.
Detective Ryan Peters [04:13]:
"Let me at least run the license plate and figure out who this guy is or girl is and how it's associated."
The license plate leads to Kyle Handley, a figure with connections to the burgeoning medical marijuana industry in California, setting the stage for a deeper investigation into the intertwined worlds of legal dispensaries and illicit activities.
Linking to Kyle Handley
Kyle Handley emerges as a critical figure in the investigation. His relationship with Michael Barnes is scrutinized to understand the motive behind the brutal attack.
Deputy District Attorney Matt Murphy [04:58]:
"We got a guy in the marijuana business in Fountain Valley whose truck this is, who, as far as we could tell, had no business being down there."
As the investigation unfolds, the partnership between Michael and Kyle in the cannabis business is revealed, highlighting the chaotic and cash-heavy nature of the industry that made them vulnerable targets.
Michael and Kyle's Relationship
The episode delves into the personal relationship between Michael and Kyle, illustrating how business ties can spiral into dangerous alliances.
Detective Ryan Peters [11:00]:
"Kyle was selling marijuana to Michael, and Michael was buying small amounts. Nothing crazy, just $2,000 worth."
Their friendship deepened with shared social activities, including an extravagant trip to Las Vegas, which exposed them to significant amounts of cash—raising suspicions about possible motives for the subsequent attack.
Detective Ryan Peters [11:35]:
"They would go out to dinner. They would go to clubs. They would go to strip clubs. They would gamble all day..."
However, after the Las Vegas trip, Kyle's sudden disappearance from Michael's life adds another layer of mystery to the case.
The Arrest of Kyle Handley
Detective Peters orchestrates a meticulous stakeout leading to Kyle's arrest. The scene, captured via body camera footage, portrays Kyle's nervous demeanor as he is detained.
Detective Ryan Peters [17:14]:
"I have a search warrant for your person. Your card else." [17:14]
Despite the mounting evidence against him, Kyle remains uncooperative, complicating the investigation and hinting at the involvement of additional parties.
Evidence Linking Kyle to the Crime
The search of Kyle's residence uncovers a trove of incriminating evidence that ties him directly to the kidnapping and murder.
Deputy District Attorney Matt Murphy [18:23]:
"First thing they find is they find the truck exactly as it was described... it's got a big dent on the side."
Items such as a blue disposable glove, bloodstained shoes, and a zip tie identical to those used at the crime scene solidify the case against Kyle, despite his lack of a violent background.
Detective Ryan Peters [20:25]:
"Dumping out a body. It's going to splatter."
These findings suggest a methodical attempt to conceal the crime, with bleach residues linking back to the brutal nature of the attack on Michael.
DNA Breakthrough: Hossein Nayeri
A pivotal moment in the investigation occurs with the DNA analysis of evidence found at Kyle's residence, leading to an unexpected suspect: Hossein Nayeri.
Detective Ryan Peters [24:02]:
"I get a DNA hit on the glove found on the floorboard of Kyle Hanley's truck."
Hossein's connection to Kyle from high school and his prior dubious activities position him as a potential mastermind behind the crime, expanding the scope of the investigation beyond Kyle.
Deputy District Attorney Matt Murphy [24:33]:
"Hussein Nayiri was in the CODIS system... known to them because Hussein Nayiri's name wound up on insurance documents found in a Chevy Tahoe."
The discovery of a high-speed chase involving a Chevy Tahoe linked to Hossein further tightens the investigative net, suggesting a deeper conspiracy at play.
Conclusion and Cliffhanger
As the episode concludes, Detective Peters faces the daunting task of connecting the dots between Kyle and Hossein, understanding the broader implications of the marijuana industry's dark underbelly, and uncovering the full extent of the orchestrated attack on Michael and Mary Barnes.
Detective Ryan Peters [23:06]:
"Kyle Hanley was a key. He was the tool to the next guy... I needed to use Kyle Hanley somehow."
The episode leaves listeners on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the next installment that promises to unravel the complex layers of this chilling true crime saga.
Production Credits
Devil in the Desert is a production of ABC Audio and ABC News Studios. Hosted by Matt Gutman and produced by Madeline Wood, Amy Pedula, and Kiara Powell, with supervising producer Susie Lu. Music and mixing by Evan Viola. Special thanks to Liz Alessi, Katie Dendas, Janice Johnston, Eamonn McNiff, Jake Lefferman, Katie Muldowney, and Michelle Margulies. Directed by Josh Cohan, with Laura Mayer serving as executive producer.
This detailed summary captures the essence of Episode 2, "A Neon Sign For Crime," highlighting the critical developments, investigative strategies, and emerging suspects that drive the narrative forward. For those seeking a comprehensive understanding of this complex case without listening to the episode, this summary provides an engaging and informative overview.