Park Predators: The Campfire

Host: Delia D’Ambra
Release Date: March 25, 2025

Introduction to the Gitchie Manitou Massacre

Delia D'Ambra [00:28]:
"The story I'm going to tell you about today is a harrowing one. It happened more than 50 years ago, but still remains one of the most notorious multi-victim homicide cases in the state of Iowa."

Delia D’Ambra opens the episode by introducing listeners to the Gitchie Manitou Massacre, a brutal multi-victim homicide that occurred on November 18, 1973, in the remote Gitchie Manitou State Preserve in northwest Iowa. The preserve, known for its stunning geological formations and natural beauty, became the backdrop for a senseless act of violence that shocked the local communities.

Discovery of the Victims

On a seemingly normal morning, a couple stumbled upon the gruesome scene. As they investigated strange objects in thick grass, they found the bodies of three young men—Mike Hadrith (15), Stuart Beatty (18), and Dana Beatty (14)—shot with shotguns. Shortly after, authorities discovered a fourth victim, Roger Essom (17), in a nearby clearing resembling a campsite, suggesting an initial attack area.

Delia D'Ambra [04:10]:
"The campsite was the location where the initial attack had begun. The victim whose body was there seemed to have been killed there. And most likely the three other victims... had been transported away from the campfire area and then fatally shot."

First Breakthrough: Sandra Chesky

The investigation took a pivotal turn when Sandra Chesky, a 13-year-old girl, came forward as the sole survivor and eyewitness. She provided a detailed account of the events leading up to the murders.

Sandra Chesky [12:45]:
"We heard some sounds in the woods that made us think... it was actually people."

According to Sandra, she and her friends were enjoying their time at the preserve when three silhouettes emerged from the woods. The ensuing confrontation led to the shooting of Roger and Stuart, followed by the abduction of Sandra and the other two boys. Sandra described the assailants as posing as law enforcement officers conducting a drug raid, which persuaded her to comply with their demands.

Identification and Arrest of the Fryer Brothers

Sandra's detailed testimony eventually led investigators to the Fryer brothers—Allen (29), James "JR" (21), and David Fryer (24). After Sandra identified them from a composite sketch, and following a traffic stop where Allen was recognized, all three brothers were arrested and charged with the murders.

James "JR" Fryer [17:00]:
"I didn't shoot anybody. My brothers did, though it was my brothers."

David, seeking leniency, cooperated with authorities, providing a confession that aligned closely with Sandra's account. Allen and JR went to trial, where Sandra's unwavering testimony played a crucial role in their convictions.

Trials and Convictions

Delia D'Ambra [20:30]:
"Sandra testified that JR was an aggressor, threatening them with violence and causing terror during the abduction."

During the trials, Sandra's credibility was scrutinized but ultimately reinforced by her consistent and detailed recounting of the events. The prosecution argued that the Fryer brothers committed the murders without a clear motive, emphasizing the brutality and senselessness of the crime.

Prosecutor [23:15]:
"This was a brutal, deliberate slaying of four young people without any rhyme or reason or excuse or anything else."

Allen was convicted of four counts of first-degree murder and sentenced to four concurrent life sentences without the possibility of parole. JR was similarly convicted, receiving three life sentences plus additional time for manslaughter charges. David, having cooperated, received a life sentence after pleading guilty to one count of murder.

Aftermath and Escape

Just weeks after their convictions, Allen and JR escaped from Lyon County Jail in June 1974. Their escape led to a nationwide manhunt, culminating in their arrest in Wyoming after a high-speed chase and subsequent charges for interstate transportation of a stolen vehicle. Despite multiple attempts, all appeals by the Fryer brothers were denied, solidifying their life sentences.

David Fryer [30:50]:
"I'd rather be put to death than live the rest of my life in a prison."

Impact on the Victims' Families and Sandra Chesky

The massacre had a profound and lasting impact on the families of the victims and on Sandra Chesky herself. Families of the victims struggled to cope, with some relocating to escape the pain of their losses. Sandra grappled with shame and doubt in the years following the tragedy but eventually found the strength to publicly share her story, honoring her fallen friends and ensuring justice was served.

Delia D'Ambra [35:20]:
"Despite all of the forces that were telling her to stay silent, she was strong enough to know that she was the only person in the world who could make sure her friend's killers went to prison."

Sandra's bravery in coming forward as a young teenager was crucial in the conviction of the Fryer brothers, highlighting the importance of survivor testimony in criminal justice.

Conclusion: Unanswered Questions

Despite the convictions, the true motive behind the Fryer brothers' actions remains elusive. The prosecution and investigators struggled to determine why such a senseless act of violence was perpetrated in a peaceful natural setting, leaving the community with lingering questions about the nature of the crime.

Delia D'Ambra [37:45]:
"There didn't appear to be a strong motive, at least not one he could put his finger on... a senseless, brutal massacre of four young people, pure and simple."

The episode concludes by reflecting on the lasting scars left by the massacre and the resilience of those who survived and persevered in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

Closing Remarks

Delia D'Ambra [38:01]:
"Park Predators is an audio Chuck production. You can view a list of all the source material for this episode on our website, parkpredators.com and you can also follow Park Predators on Instagram @arcpredators."

Delia wraps up the episode by directing listeners to additional resources and social media channels for further engagement and information.

Notable Quotes

• Delia D'Ambra [04:10]:
  "The campsite was the location where the initial attack had begun. The victim whose body was there seemed to have been killed there. And most likely the three other victims... had been transported away from the campfire area and then fatally shot."

• Sandra Chesky [12:45]:
  "We heard some sounds in the woods that made us think... it was actually people."

• James "JR" Fryer [17:00]:
  "I didn't shoot anybody. My brothers did, though it was my brothers."

• Prosecutor [23:15]:
  "This was a brutal, deliberate slaying of four young people without any rhyme or reason or excuse or anything else."

• David Fryer [30:50]:
  "I'd rather be put to death than live the rest of my life in a prison."

• Delia D'Ambra [37:45]:
  "There didn't appear to be a strong motive, at least not one he could put his finger on... a senseless, brutal massacre of four young people, pure and simple."

Key Takeaways

• Unsolved Motive: Despite the convictions, the Fryer brothers' motive for the massacre remains unclear, highlighting the randomness and senselessness of the crime.

• Survivor's Testimony: Sandra Chesky's detailed and consistent testimony was pivotal in securing the convictions of the Fryer brothers, underscoring the importance of eyewitness accounts in criminal investigations.

• Long-Term Impact: The massacre had enduring effects on the victims' families and Sandra Chesky, shaping their lives in profound ways and demonstrating the long-lasting trauma caused by such violent acts.

For more detailed information and source materials referenced in this episode, visit parkpredators.com and follow us on Instagram @arcpredators.