Small Town Murder

Episode #576 - Electronic Murder Bread Crumbs - Longmont, Colorado
Release Date: March 8, 2025
Hosts: James Pietragallo & Jimmie Whisman

Introduction

In this gripping episode of Small Town Murder, hosts James Pietragallo and Jimmie Whisman delve into the tragic and complex case of Jason Schaefer, a beloved mail carrier from Longmont, Colorado, whose life was brutally taken in broad daylight. Combining thorough research with their signature comedic flair, James and Jimmie unpack the intricate details surrounding the murder, the ensuing investigation, and the eventual trial.

Overview of the Crime

On October 13, 2021, at 12:32 PM, Jason Schaefer was fatally shot four times in front of his home on Heatherhill Street in Longmont, Colorado. Surveillance footage captured the harrowing moments of the attack, revealing a suspect clad in a dark hoodie and a blue face mask fleeing the scene. The shocking nature of the crime in a typically peaceful suburban neighborhood left the community in disbelief.

Notable Quote:
Jimmy Whisman [19:15]: “This was the worst murder ever. You can put it together. You can literally make a film out of the cars being followed and people running away.”

Investigation Details

Victim Background

Jason Schaefer, born in 1988, was highly regarded in his community for his dedication as a mail carrier. Known for his kindness, Jason went above and beyond, often delivering mail to elderly residents unable to reach their mailboxes.

Notable Quote:
James Pietragallo [20:22]: “He brings the mail up to the door for elderly people who can't. Like, real nice guy.”

Suspects Background

The primary suspects in the case are Devin Shriner, Jason's ex-girlfriend, and her boyfriend, AJ Ritchie. Devin, a fellow postal worker, had a tumultuous relationship with Jason, marked by custody disputes over their five-year-old son. AJ, a prison guard at Englewood Prison, had a long-standing, and reportedly inappropriate, relationship with Devin, beginning when she was just thirteen years old.

Notable Quote:
Jimmie Whisman [35:44]: “AJ Ritchie. He's a prison guard at Englewood Prison. He’s a CEO, so you know, he's a great guy too. You never know.”

Evidence Presented

Technological Evidence

The investigation heavily relied on GPS data from Devin’s mail scanner, which showed her device was stationary at AJ’s residence from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM on the day of the murder. Additionally, Devin’s 2017 black Nissan Rogue, identifiable by a missing front passenger hubcap, was captured near the crime scene by automated license plate readers. Surveillance cameras placed AJ Ritchie following Jason Schaefer’s mail route extensively that morning.

Notable Quote:
Jimmy Whisman [41:50]: “Google devices caught Devin's car with a missing hubcap near the scene. It’s not good.”

Witness Statements

Neighbors described Jason as a well-liked individual, making the murder even more perplexing. Some witnesses reported hearing three to five gunshots, and multiple security cameras documented the suspect’s movements before and after the shooting.

Notable Quote:
Jimmy Whisman [09:05]: “Main street it is. The sidewalks are just popular.”

The Interrogation

Devin Shriner's Behavior

During her interrogation, Devin exhibited cold and detached behavior, showing minimal emotional response to the news of Jason’s death. She was primarily concerned about the custody of her son, displaying a lack of remorse or acknowledgment of the severity of the crime.

Notable Quote:
Jimmie Whisman [55:26]: “The cop goes, we think it was you. She takes a long pause and goes, thanks.”

AJ Ritchie's Involvement

AJ Ritchie, initially denying involvement, eventually confessed his role in the murder. He admitted to following Jason and coordinating with Devin to plan the attack. Text messages revealed Devin had threatened Jason, and AJ had manipulated her into carrying out the murder, positioning himself as her accomplice.

Notable Quote:
Jimmie Whisman [67:38]: “AJ confessed to everything and let it out. He gave the police a picture of you in the outfit that the murder took place.”

Trial and Sentencing

Both Devin Shriner and AJ Ritchie were brought to trial. Extensive evidence, including technological data and incriminating text messages, led to their conviction. Devin was found guilty of first-degree murder, while AJ was convicted as the mastermind behind the plot. The judge sentenced both to life without parole, emphasizing the premeditated nature of their actions.

Notable Quote:
Jimmie Whisman [75:39]: “With today's guilty verdict, the two people responsible for this premeditated and cold-blooded murder will be held fully responsible for killing Jason Schaefer while he was delivering mail.”

Community Reaction

The Longmont community was deeply affected by the tragedy. Jason’s parents described the loss as a “living nightmare,” highlighting the profound emotional and social impact on the neighborhood. A memorial procession featuring 47 postal trucks underscored the collective grief and respect for Jason’s service.

Notable Quote:
Devin Shriner [73:52]: “My wife's got an Amazon thing. I apologize, guys.”

Conclusion

James and Jimmie wrap up the episode by reflecting on the senselessness of the crime and the misuse of technology in committing such a targeted murder in a quiet suburb. They underscore the importance of community vigilance and the devastating consequences of personal vendettas gone tragically wrong.

Notable Quote:
Jimmie Whisman [78:27]: “Not a single mailman deserves to be killed while they're delivering. That's terrible.”

Key Takeaways

• Premeditation and Coordination: The murder was meticulously planned, with both Devin and AJ playing pivotal roles.
• Technological Footprints: GPS data and surveillance footage were crucial in unraveling the case.
• Emotional Detachment: Devin’s lack of emotional response during interrogation suggested guilt and premeditation.
• Community Impact: The tragedy left a lasting scar on the Longmont community, emphasizing the importance of every individual's role in maintaining neighborhood safety.

This episode serves as a poignant reminder of how personal conflicts can escalate into unimaginable crimes, and the vital role of technology and community cooperation in solving such cases.