True Crime with Kendall Rae: Shocking Confession Tape Exposes Best Friend Turned Killer!? The Case of Sarah Stern

Episode Release Date: December 19, 2024
Hosted by: Mile Higher Media & Audioboom Studios

Introduction

In this poignant and riveting episode of True Crime with Kendall Rae, Kendall delves deep into the tragic and unsettling case of Sarah Stern. Known for her empathetic approach to true crime, Kendall meticulously unpacks the events leading to Sarah's untimely death, the ensuing investigation, and the shocking revelations that surfaced through a confession tape. This detailed summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key discussions, insights, and conclusions drawn by Kendall and her team.

Who Was Sarah Stern?

Sarah Lee Stern was born on March 24, 1997, to Michael and Carla Stern in Neptune City, New Jersey. An only child, Sarah was a vibrant and talented individual with a passion for sports and the arts. By her freshman year at Neptune High School, she was already a varsity softball and swim team member, juggling a busy athletic career with her growing love for creative expression. Sarah's interests ranged from drawing and painting to photography and digital media, making her a well-rounded and admired individual in her community.

Kendall shares a heartfelt tribute to Sarah, stating, “From what I learned about Sarah Stern, she really seemed to be an incredible young woman who really had a beautiful and full life ahead of her” ([Transcript: 12:00]). Sarah was also an avid YouTube enthusiast, finding solace and community within the platform, particularly through creators like Grace Helbig, Hannah Hart, Mamrie Hart, Jenna Marbles, and Julian Solomita. Her favorite quote from her high school yearbook encapsulates her optimistic spirit: “Be yourself from the beginning to the end of time. Don’t ever be what you think other people would want you to be” ([Transcript: 13:50]).

The Disappearance of Sarah Stern

On December 2, 2016, Sarah Stern's promising life was abruptly cut short under mysterious circumstances. The initial incident occurred in the early morning hours of December 3rd when an Uber driver discovered Sarah's abandoned 1994 silver sedan on the Route 35 Belmar Bridge at 2:46 AM ([Transcript: 10:18]). The car was left with the keys in the ignition, but there were no signs of Sarah or any personal belongings nearby, sparking immediate concern.

Kendall recounts the alarm felt by Sarah’s father, Michael Stern, who received a distressing call from law enforcement notifying him of his daughter's disappearance while he was out of town. “And so, in the middle of the night, he began the long drive back to New Jersey desperately trying to get in touch with his daughter” ([Transcript: 10:59]).

Investigation and Initial Interviews

As authorities scrambled to locate Sarah, they initiated a series of interviews with those close to her, including Liam McAtasney and Preston Taylor—longtime friends of Sarah.

Interview with Liam McAtasney

During his first interview, Liam appeared cooperative but both his demeanor and the information he provided raised suspicions. At [15:27], Liam reveals, “she's been trying to get away and tell me she's going to Canada,” planting the idea that Sarah was contemplating fleeing to escape a troubled home life.

Interview with Preston Taylor

Following Liam, Preston Taylor was brought in for questioning. Unlike Liam, Preston distanced himself from Sarah, referring to her as a "mutual friend" ([Transcript: 40:02]). His reluctance to acknowledge a close bond with Sarah contrasted sharply with Liam's portrayal, further deepening the mystery surrounding Sarah's disappearance.

Kendall observes, “The conversations with both Liam and Preston seemed to paint a picture of Sarah being depressed and wanting to leave her father,” which initially led investigators to consider theories of suicide or sudden disappearance ([Transcript: 17:39]).

The Confession Tape

A pivotal moment in the investigation occurred when a confession tape surfaced, featuring Liam McAtasney discussing the events surrounding Sarah's disappearance. Recorded in a candid and disturbing manner, Liam casually admits to strangling Sarah and attempting to dispose of her body. At [46:21], Liam remarks, “But he mentions how her dog watched the entire time it happened,” showcasing his unsettling lack of remorse and the depth of his deception.

Kendall reflects on the tape, stating, “I just absolutely love that. I just absolutely love that,” emphasizing the shock and horror elicited by Liam's nonchalant recounting of his heinous actions ([Transcript: 35:47]).

Breakthrough: Anthony Curry Steps In

The case took a significant turn when Anthony Curry, a former classmate of Sarah and Liam, came forward with crucial information. Anthony recounted a conversation with Liam on Thanksgiving Day of 2016, where Liam jokingly discussed a movie plot involving Sarah’s murder ([Transcript: 28:17]). This revelation was a game-changer, prompting investigators to connect Liam directly to the crime.

Anthony's bravery in coming forward and providing evidence was instrumental in building a case against Liam. Kendall praises Anthony's actions: “Hats off to Anthony because he was very brave to do that” ([Transcript: 48:30]).

Arrests and Trial

With mounting evidence, including the confession tape and testimonies from Preston, authorities moved swiftly to arrest those involved.

Preston Taylor's Involvement

Preston confessed to his role in the crime, detailing how he assisted Liam in moving Sarah’s body and staging the scene to resemble a suicide. His cooperation was pivotal, leading to the discovery of Sarah’s money and the final unraveling of the plot ([Transcript: 58:26]).

Liam McAtasney's Defense

During the trial, Liam’s defense team employed questionable strategies, including attempting to dismiss the confession tape as an "audition tape" for a movie ([Transcript: 74:54]). This defense was widely ridiculed, as the evidence against Liam was overwhelming.

Verdict and Sentencing

On February 26, 2019, Liam McAtasney was found guilty on all charges, including murder, robbery, and desecration of human remains. He was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole plus an additional 10 years ([Transcript: 55:27]).

Preston Taylor received a plea deal, pled guilty to several charges, and was sentenced to 18 years in prison with the possibility of parole in May 2032. His testimony was crucial in securing Liam’s conviction.

Aftermath and Memorial

Sarah Stern’s family and community were left devastated by her loss. Her father, Michael Stern, has been vocal about the pain and the inadequate reliance on the justice system, expressing a desire for the death penalty despite its abolition in New Jersey. In honor of Sarah’s memory, Michael established the Sarah Lee Stern Scholarship Fund to support high school students pursuing the arts, a testament to Sarah’s enduring legacy.

Kendall concludes the episode with a touching celebration of Sarah’s life, sharing the high school yearbook quote that embodies her spirit: “Be yourself from the beginning to the end of time. Don’t ever be what you think other people would want you to be” ([Transcript: 74:54]).

Conclusion

This episode of True Crime with Kendall Rae serves not only as a recounting of a tragic event but also as a homage to a young woman whose life was unjustly taken. Kendall’s thorough investigation and compassionate storytelling bring to light the complexities of Sarah Stern’s case, highlighting issues of trust, deception, and the relentless pursuit of truth. The episode underscores the profound impact such crimes have on victims' families and communities, leaving listeners both informed and emotionally moved.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Kendall Rae: "From what I learned about Sarah Stern, she really seemed to be an incredible young woman who really had a beautiful and full life ahead of her" ([12:00]).

• Liam McAtasney: "She's been trying to get away and tell me she's going to Canada" ([15:27]).

• Preston Taylor: "I think she jumped," suggesting Sarah took her own life ([40:48]).

• Liam McAtasney: "The worst part of it is I thought I was walking out 50 grand, 100 grand in my pocket" ([46:21]).

• Kendall Rae: "Sarah does not deserve any of this" ([55:27]).

Final Thoughts

Kendall Rae's empathetic approach ensures that Sarah Stern's story is told with the dignity and respect it deserves, emphasizing the importance of remembering victims and seeking justice. This episode not only informs but also honors Sarah's memory, advocating for awareness and support for victims of violent crimes.