Digest

This podcast tells the heartbreaking story of Rachel Hanson, a young woman who overcame a challenging childhood marked by trauma and abandonment to find healing through equine therapy. The episode details her adoption by the Hanson family and her passion for horses, which helped her build trust and resilience. However, the narrative takes a tragic turn as it recounts Rachel's murder in June 2022, highlighting the circumstances leading up to her death, including her job termination at a ranch and subsequent mental health struggles. The podcast delves into the bizarre incident where Rachel's horse, Dash, was taken from the ranch and held for ransom, forcing the Hansons to pay a hefty sum to get their daughter's beloved horse back. It then describes the horrific attack on Rachel at her apartment, where she was shot in the abdomen but managed to call 911 before succumbing to her injuries. The episode explores various theories surrounding Rachel's murder, including potential involvement from the ranch owners, the tenant who subleased her apartment, and Joe Metz's father, who had a violent altercation with Rachel weeks before her death. The podcast criticizes the Gilbert Police Department's handling of the case, citing a lack of transparency, respect, and urgency shown towards the Hanson family. It reveals that the department has faced criticism for mishandling other murder cases, emphasizing the need for accountability and justice in Rachel's case. The episode concludes with the Hansons' ongoing efforts to seek justice for their daughter, including partnering with a private investigation firm and launching a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for the investigation. They have also established Rachel's Rescue, a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehoming puppies and dogs, fulfilling their daughter's dream and honoring her memory.

Outlines

00:00:06

Rachel's Life and Trauma

This chapter introduces Rachel Hanson, a vibrant young woman who tragically lost her life at the age of 19. The episode delves into Rachel's challenging early life, marked by trauma and abandonment, before she found a loving adoptive family.

00:04:00

Finding Healing Through Equine Therapy

This chapter explores Rachel's adoption by the Hanson family and her journey to healing through equine therapy. It highlights her passion for horses and her resilience in overcoming past trauma.

00:13:14

The Tragic Murder of Rachel Hanson

This chapter shifts focus to the tragic murder of Rachel Hanson in June 2022. It details the circumstances leading up to her death, including her job termination at a ranch and her subsequent mental health struggles.

00:21:58

The Missing Horse and Ransom Demand

This chapter recounts the bizarre incident where Rachel's horse, Dash, was taken from the ranch and held for ransom. The Hansons were forced to pay a hefty sum to get their daughter's beloved horse back.

00:24:06

The Brutal Attack and 911 Call

This chapter describes the horrific attack on Rachel at her apartment. Despite being shot in the abdomen, she managed to call 911 before succumbing to her injuries. The chapter also highlights the lack of security measures at her apartment complex.

00:29:13

Theories and Mishandled Investigation

This chapter explores the theories surrounding Rachel's murder, including potential involvement from the ranch owners and the tenant who subleased her apartment. It also criticizes the Gilbert Police Department's handling of the case, citing a lack of transparency and respect for the Hanson family.

Keywords

Q&A

• What were some of the challenges Rachel faced in her early life?

  Rachel experienced multiple instances of abandonment and trauma, including being placed in foster care at a young age and witnessing the death of a person she lived with.

• How did equine therapy help Rachel heal from her past trauma?

  Equine therapy provided Rachel with a sense of purpose and healing. Her bond with her horses, particularly Dash, helped her build trust, develop self-reliance, and experience the joy of a healthy childhood.

• What are some of the theories surrounding Rachel's murder?

  Theories include potential involvement from the ranch owners who fired Rachel and held her horse for ransom, the tenant who subleased her apartment, and Joe Metz's father, who had a violent altercation with Rachel weeks before her death.

• What are the concerns regarding the Gilbert Police Department's handling of Rachel's case?

  The Hansons have expressed concerns about the lack of transparency, respect, and urgency shown by the Gilbert Police Department. They feel their daughter's case has not been treated as a priority, and they are seeking answers and justice.

• What steps have the Hansons taken to honor Rachel's memory?

  The Hansons have established Rachel's Rescue, a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehoming puppies and dogs, fulfilling their daughter's dream. They also continue to seek justice for her murder and keep her memory alive through various initiatives.

Show Notes