Jay Durnil (2 of Hearts, Nebraska)
3Digest
This podcast delves into the chilling case of Jay Dernall, an 11-year-old boy who vanished from Nebraska in 1976. The episode chronicles the events leading up to his disappearance, the initial investigation and search efforts, and the eventual discovery of his body in the Missouri River. The podcast highlights the discovery of Jay's bike in the Elkorn River, the creation of suspect sketches, and the investigation into other unsolved cases in the region. The episode then reveals a confession made by John Raven in 1978, two years after Jay's murder. Raven claimed he struck Jay with a hammer and disposed of his body in the Missouri River. However, he later recanted his confession, claiming he lied about the murder. The podcast explores the reasons behind his recantation and the lack of further investigation into his story. The episode concludes with a discussion of the lingering questions surrounding Raven's confession and the lack of closure for Jay's family. The podcast encourages listeners to contact the Douglas County Sheriff's Office with any information about the case.
Outlines
The Unsolved Murder of Jay Dernall
This episode investigates the unsolved murder of 11-year-old Jay Dernall, who disappeared from Nebraska in 1976. The podcast explores the events leading up to his disappearance, the initial investigation and search efforts, and the eventual discovery of his body in the Missouri River.
Jay's Disappearance and Initial Investigation
The episode details the events leading up to Jay's disappearance on April 29, 1976, including his last moments and the frantic search that ensued. It also recounts the initial police investigation and search efforts, including interviews with witnesses, searches of the river, and the offering of a reward.
The Discovery of Jay's Body and Unanswered Questions
The episode details the discovery of Jay's body in the Missouri River, revealing that he had been tied up and suffered trauma to the head. The episode explores the possibility of his body being moved and raises questions about the timeline of Jay's abduction and murder, and explores theories about the motive behind his death.
John Raven's Confession and Recantation
The episode reveals a confession made by John Raven in 1978, two years after Jay's murder. Raven claimed he struck Jay with a hammer and disposed of his body in the Missouri River. The episode details Raven's recantation of his confession, claiming he lied about the murder. The episode explores the reasons behind his recantation and the lack of further investigation into his story.
Remembering Jay and Seeking Closure
The episode concludes with Wanda's heartfelt reflections on her son, Jay, and the enduring impact of his loss. The episode discusses the lingering questions surrounding Raven's confession and the lack of closure for Jay's family. The episode encourages listeners to contact the Douglas County Sheriff's Office with any information about the case.
Keywords
Cold Case
A criminal investigation that has been inactive for a significant period due to a lack of leads or evidence. Cold cases often remain open, with the possibility of being reopened if new information emerges.
Unsolved Murder
A homicide case where the perpetrator has not been identified or apprehended. Unsolved murders can have a profound impact on families and communities, leaving a sense of injustice and uncertainty.
Confession
A statement made by a person admitting to committing a crime. Confessions can be a crucial piece of evidence in criminal investigations, but they must be obtained legally and voluntarily.
Recantation
The act of withdrawing or retracting a previous statement, especially a confession. Recantations can complicate criminal investigations and raise questions about the credibility of the original statement.
Missing Person
An individual whose whereabouts are unknown and who is believed to be in danger. Missing person cases often involve extensive searches and investigations to locate the individual and determine their fate.
Forensic Evidence
Physical evidence collected and analyzed in a criminal investigation to identify the perpetrator and establish the circumstances of the crime. Forensic evidence can include fingerprints, DNA, and trace materials.
Motive
The reason or driving force behind a crime. Understanding the motive can be crucial in solving a case, as it can provide insights into the perpetrator's mindset and actions.
Abduction
The unlawful taking or carrying away of a person against their will. Abduction can be a standalone crime or a precursor to other offenses, such as murder or sexual assault.
Q&A
What new information did the reporting team uncover in Jay Dernall's case?
The reporting team discovered a long-forgotten confession made by John Raven in 1978, two years after Jay's murder. Raven claimed he struck Jay with a hammer and disposed of his body in the Missouri River.
Why did John Raven recant his confession?
Raven claimed he lied about the murder, stating he'd seen something about it in the newspaper and wanted to go to jail because he was tired. The reasons behind his recantation remain unclear.
What are the lingering questions surrounding John Raven's confession?
It's unclear how Raven knew specific details about Jay's injuries and the way his hands were tied. Additionally, there's no explanation for why investigators didn't further investigate his story after he recanted.
What impact did Jay's murder have on his family?
Jay's murder had a profound impact on his family, particularly his father, who was never the same after his son's death. The family also struggled with the taboo subject of Jay's homicide for many years.
What is the current status of Jay Dernall's case?
Jay's case remains unsolved, but the reporting team's discovery of Raven's confession has brought renewed attention to the case. The Douglas County Sheriff's Office is encouraging anyone with information to contact them.
Show Notes
Our card this week is Jay Durnil, the 2 of Hearts from Nebraska.
Jay Durnil, 11, was last seen on April 29th, 1976 biking to the Elkhorn River in his family’s neighborhood near Waterloo, Nebraska. Jay’s dog Tex returned home that night but Jay was never seen alive again. Jay’s case was handled as an accidental drowning until his body surfaced in a different river 21 days later, with clear signs that he’d been murdered.
- If you have any information about the 1976 murder of 11-year-old Jay Durnil near Waterloo, Nebraska, call the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and ask for Captain Eric Sellers. They are also interested in speaking with anyone who knew or came in contact with John Raven anytime in 1976 or after. The phone number for the office is 402-444-6000.
View source material and photos for this episode at: thedeckpodcast.com/jay-durnil
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