Podcast Summary: "They Know" | Chapter 5 of Three Host/Author: Waveland
Release Date: March 8, 2024

Introduction

In Episode 5, titled "They Know," of Waveland's gripping true crime series Three, hosts Holly Millay and Justine Harmon delve deeper into the tragic case of Skylar Neese. This episode focuses on the aftermath of Rachel's confession, the intense search for Skylar's body, and the unraveling relationships among those involved. Through detailed interviews and firsthand accounts, the episode paints a comprehensive picture of the events that unfolded in Morgantown, West Virginia.

Case Background

Three explores the mysterious and sorrowful disappearance of Skylar Neese, a 17-year-old from Morgantown, West Virginia. On July 6, 2012, Skylar vanished after being last seen in a surveillance video where she was leaving her home to join friends for what seemed like a typical teenage night out. The case quickly evolved from a missing person investigation to a dark tale of betrayal and tragedy involving Skylar and two of her closest friends, Rachel and Sheila.

Rachel's Confession and Initial Reactions

The episode opens with a poignant recollection by Ronnie Gaskins, a State Trooper involved in the case:

Ronnie Gaskins [04:22]: "They did it. What do you mean? He said, Rachel and Sheila. And I was like, I remember off side of the road. You serious?"

Rachel's confession to Gaskins and FBI agent Robert Ambrosini marks a pivotal moment in the investigation. Holly Millay narrates the tension-filled drive as law enforcement attempts to locate Skylar's body based on Rachel's directions.

The Search for Skylar

Despite precise instructions, the search teams faced significant challenges:

Holly Millay [05:30]: "State Trooper Chris Berry... watching a recording of what happened inside the Shoaf residence."

The team navigates through snow-laden Appalachian woods, hampering their efforts to locate Skylar. Their search is methodical yet thwarted by harsh weather conditions, leading to a temporary setback as they turn back without finding Skylar.

Internal Struggles and Strained Relationships

Back in Morgantown, Rachel and Sheila's interactions reveal deep-seated tensions. Holly Millay provides an inside look at a fraught conversation:

Ronnie Gaskins [06:26]: "They'll never know. That's what she said. Keep your mouth shut."

The friends’ deteriorating relationship is further illustrated through social media interactions and personal accounts, highlighting their reluctance to fully cooperate with authorities.

Renewed Efforts and Breakthroughs

Eight days post-confession, renewed efforts intensify as weather conditions improve, allowing for a more thorough search:

Chris Berry [18:22]: "There was a fear that the creek was so high it might have carried potential evidence downstream..."

A breakthrough occurs when a canine unit detects Skylar's presence near a towering oak tree, leading to her eventual recovery:

Ronnie Gaskins [21:03]: "She turned across the cement bridge... And that's where we found Skylar."

Detailed forensic work, including the retrieval of Skylar's cell phone and matching her Instagram photos, solidifies the case against Rachel and Sheila.

Aftermath and Legal Proceedings

Following the discovery, the episode delves into the legal ramifications and the psychological impact on those involved:

Ronnie Gaskins [25:14]: "...she was more scared than anything. I mean she wasn't like bawling..."

Rachel's emotional state during her confession underscores the complexity of her involvement. Additionally, the strained communications between Rachel and Sheila post-confession hint at underlying tensions and possible ulterior motives.

Community and Media Impact

The case's evolution from a local missing persons report to a widely scrutinized investigation is captured through insights from crime reporter Alex Lang:

Ronnie Gaskins [16:17]: "It became, we're not this safe little community that's just known for a college football team."

The community’s heightened interest and media attention amplified the pressure on law enforcement, shaping the narrative surrounding Skylar's tragic end.

Concluding Insights

Holly Millay reflects on the enduring impact of the case on all parties involved:

Jessica Colbank [28:44]: "I couldn't solve that case. That eats me."

The episode concludes by emphasizing the lingering emotional scars and the relentless pursuit of truth by those determined to find closure.

Notable Quotes

• Ronnie Gaskins [06:26]: "They'll never know. That's what she said. Keep your mouth shut."
• Chris Berry [18:22]: "There was a fear that the creek was so high it might have carried potential evidence downstream..."
• Ronnie Gaskins [25:14]: "...she was more scared than anything. I mean she wasn't like bawling..."
• Jessica Colbank [28:44]: "I couldn't solve that case. That eats me."

Conclusion

In "They Know," Three by Waveland masterfully intertwines investigative rigor with human emotion, shedding light on the harrowing circumstances surrounding Skylar Neese's death. Through meticulous storytelling and evocative interviews, Holly Millay and Justine Harmon provide listeners with a profound understanding of the case's complexities, the fragile nature of teenage friendships, and the relentless pursuit of justice.

Three continues to unravel the layers of this haunting case, promising further revelations and deeper insights in upcoming episodes.