Park Predators – Episode: "The Sailor"

Release Date: July 1, 2025
Host: Delia D’Ambra

Introduction

In the episode titled "The Sailor," host Delia D’Ambra delves into a haunting case that unfolded in Yosemite National Park, one of America's most picturesque natural wonders. Through meticulous investigation and compelling storytelling, Delia uncovers the layers of deception, suspicion, and justice surrounding the mysterious death of Delores Gray.

The Incident at Tunnel View

[01:53] Delia D’Ambra:
"Hi park enthusiasts. I'm your host, Delia D'Ambra. And the case I'm going to tell you about today came from a listener submission..."

On the evening of December 5, 1987, a man named Don was hiking the Pahono Trail in Yosemite when he overheard a heated argument between a man and a woman near the Tunnel View parking lot. Don, a former member of Yosemite Search and Rescue, recognized the voices but chose not to intervene out of concern for his safety.

As the argument escalated, Don heard a glass bottle clatter to the ground, followed by a woman's desperate scream and then silence. Shortly after, he heard a vehicle speeding away. This eerie sequence of sounds set the stage for what would become a pivotal moment in the investigation of Delores Gray's disappearance.

Discovery of Delores Gray's Body

A few days later, authorities discovered Delores Gray's body at the base of a cliff adjacent to the Tunnel View overlook. Initial investigations suggested an accidental fall, a conclusion seemingly supported by the treacherous terrain surrounding the parking area. However, discrepancies in testimonies and emerging evidence began to cast doubt on this swift determination.

Don's Crucial Testimony

[25:34] Don:
"We all belong outside. We're drawn to nature..."

Delia conducts an exclusive interview with Don, the anonymous eyewitness whose observations became instrumental in reshaping the investigation. Don highlights inconsistencies between his account and that of Delores's husband, Stevie Gray, particularly regarding the sounds heard during the fateful hike.

Suspicion Cast on Stevie Gray

Parallel to Delores's disappearance, it was revealed that Stevie Gray had taken out substantial life insurance policies shortly after their marriage, totaling over half a million dollars. Upon his wife's death, Stevie's attempts to claim these policies raised red flags. His erratic explanations and the discovery of his extramarital affairs further deepened suspicions.

[04:39] Delia D’Ambra:
"The reason I'm referring to Don as Don and not his real name is because he asked me not to use his real identity in this episode..."

Don's insights revealed that Stevie had a history of deceit, including fabricating his military status to attract women. This pattern of behavior made Stevie a prime suspect in Delores's untimely death.

The Investigation Intensifies

As the investigation progressed, forensic evidence and eyewitness testimonies began to align against Stevie Gray. Handwriting analysis revealed that the signatures on the life insurance policies did not match Delores's authentic signatures, suggesting forgery. Additionally, Stevie's inconsistent accounts to authorities undermined his credibility.

The Trial

[35:11] Kylie Lowe:
"Hi, I'm Kylie Lowe, host of Dark Down East..."

Note: This segment marks a transition away from Park Predators content and is excluded from the summary.

In June 1990, Stevie Gray stood trial for the first-degree murder of Delores Gray. The prosecution presented a compelling case, arguing that Stevie had meticulously planned his wife's murder to benefit from her life insurance. They utilized detailed models of the Tunnel View overlook to illustrate the sequence of events and contested the plausibility of Delores's accidental fall theory.

The defense, however, maintained that Delores's death was a tragic accident, exacerbated by Stevie's misleading statements rather than malicious intent. Stevie's shifting narratives during police interrogations further fueled the prosecution's case, painting him as manipulative and untrustworthy.

Verdict and Conviction

After deliberating for over a month, the jury found Stevie Gray guilty of first-degree murder on July 6, 1990. The verdict was met with emotional responses from Delores's family, who struggled to reconcile the man they thought they knew with the perpetrator convicted of their loved one's death.

Stevie was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Despite multiple appeals, his conviction stood firm, ensuring that justice was served for Delores Gray.

Aftermath and Reflections

Delia reflects on the closure that Stevie's conviction brought to Delores's family and the relentless pursuit of truth by the investigative team. She emphasizes the importance of community engagement in uncovering hidden truths and ensuring that justice prevails, even in the most serene and seemingly safe environments.

[35:11] Delia D’Ambra:
"Dolores got the justice she so very much deserved, and she could finally be at rest."

Conclusion

"The Sailor" episode of Park Predators masterfully intertwines investigative journalism with heartfelt storytelling, shedding light on the dark undercurrents that can lurk beneath the surface of America's natural paradises. Through Delia D’Ambra's dedication, listeners gain a profound understanding of how appearances can be deceiving and how perseverance in seeking the truth can lead to justice.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Don [25:34]:
  "We all belong outside. We're drawn to nature..."

• Delia D’Ambra [04:39]:
  "The reason I'm referring to Don as Don and not his real name is because he asked me not to use his real identity in this episode..."

• Stevie Gray at Sentencing [unknown timestamp]:
  "It's unfair. This whole thing is unjust."

Connect with Park Predators:
For more stories like "The Sailor" and to submit your own cases, visit parkpredators.com and follow us on Instagram @parkpredators.