Park Predators: Episode Summary - "The Plot"
Released June 17, 2025 | Host: Delia D’Ambra
Introduction
In the gripping episode titled "The Plot," investigative journalist and park enthusiast Delia D’Ambra delves into a haunting case that unfolded within the vast expanse of Big Bend National Park. She sets a solemn tone early on, issuing a content warning:
"If you find yourself particularly sensitive to subject matter involving violent pornography or allegations of sexual abuse, please take care while listening." [00:00]
Big Bend, renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems, becomes the backdrop for a disturbing narrative that intertwines law enforcement, hidden motives, and a tragic demise.
The Initial Crime
The story begins on Friday, March 31, 2000, when Park Ranger Cary Brown initiates a routine patrol and spots a suspicious pickup truck speeding through the desert. Upon conducting a traffic stop, Ranger Brown discovers what he believes to be processed marijuana packages in the truck's bed. As he confronts the occupants, one of the men abruptly flees the scene:
"Before he could even finish getting out that command, the guy riding in the passenger seat snatched a bottle of water from beneath his seat and then bolted off into the remote terrain." [05:45]
Ranger Brown remains behind to detain the driver, securing a significant drug haul worth several million dollars, while a team of fellow rangers and Border Patrol agents begin an extensive manhunt for the fugitive.
Discovery of the Body
During the intense search, a more sinister discovery halts the operation. Two Border Patrol agents uncover a makeshift grave containing skeletal remains:
"They spotted several bones that they immediately recognized as human... It was clear that someone had intentionally and hastily dug up the ground and then tried to bury the person." [20:15]
The National Park Service (NPS) suspends the drug-related manhunt to focus on the suspected homicide, calling in FBI agent Steve French to lead the investigation.
Investigation Process
The FBI's forensic team meticulously examines the remains, revealing a man likely dead for six weeks to three months. Notable details include:
- Clothing: Medline brand medical scrubs with a drawstring, denim shirt, and athletic shorts.
- Physical Evidence: A 2-inch screw in the victim's left ankle, hinting at a prior fracture.
These clues spark a focused search through missing persons reports, culminating in the identification of Shannon Roberts, a 43-year-old medical student reported missing on March 9, 2000.
"The victim was identified as Shannon Roberts... A 2-inch screw in his left ankle matched records of his medical history." [35:50]
The Link to John Michael Baker
Further investigation reveals Shannon's troubled academic journey and his interactions with significantly younger individuals, including a close association with John Michael Baker, a 20-year-old who had previously been arrested alongside Shannon for cocaine possession.
Ranger Brown uncovers Shannon's permit records indicating he had solo hiked Big Bend shortly before his disappearance, whereas his death's timeline suggests he may have perished during or after this trip.
"Shannon had a noticeable amount of dental work done, including braces, which meant he probably wasn't someone who lived a transient lifestyle." [42:30]
The Confession and Trial
As the investigation stalls, evidence points increasingly towards John Michael Baker. Significant breakthroughs include:
- Bank Records: John used Shannon's debit card to rent a hotel room in New Orleans just two days before Shannon was reported missing. [55:20]
- Interviews: John initially denies involvement but later confesses under pressure, detailing a coerced act to assist Shannon in committing suicide, which escalates into murder.
Baker's trial is marked by his brief escape from custody, only to surrender within 36 hours due to harsh conditions and lack of support. Facing substantial evidence and mounting pressure, he accepts a plea deal:
"I have no regrets." [1:25:10]
He is sentenced to 17 and a half years in prison but is released early in September 2018.
Conclusion and Aftermath
Delia concludes the episode by reflecting on the complexities of the case, including the ambiguous nature of Shannon and John's relationship. Insights from journalist Rachel Monroe's interviews add depth, revealing John's troubled past and Shannon's late-life career shift motivated by financial gains rather than passion.
"Shannon told people that Baker was his lover. Baker always denied it. My gut feeling was that it was a fantasy of Shannon's." [1:45:50]
The episode underscores the thin veil between nature's beauty and the darkness that can lurk within, encapsulating the essence of Park Predators.
For more detailed accounts and source materials, visit parkpredators.com and follow Park Predators on Instagram at @parkpredators.