Wild Crime: More Victims? | S3 Ep. 4
3Digest
This episode of Wild Crime Blood Mountain delves into the chilling case of Gary Hilton, a serial killer who terrorized the Appalachian Mountains. The episode begins with the discovery of John Bryant's remains in the Natahela National Forest, leading investigators to uncover a series of murders linked to Hilton. Evidence, including a yellow rain jacket and blood matching John Bryant's DNA found in Hilton's van, solidified his connection to the crimes. Hilton was extradited to Florida for the murder of Cheryl Dunlough and faced prosecution for his heinous acts. The episode provides insights into the trial, including the mitigating factors presented by the defense and the incriminating videos recovered from Hilton's van. Hilton was ultimately sentenced to death for the murder of Cheryl Dunlap and pleaded guilty to the murders of John and Irene Bryant in North Carolina, avoiding the death penalty. The episode also explores unsolved cases potentially linked to Hilton, including the disappearance of Patrice Andrews and Rosanna Miliani. The episode concludes with reflections on the impact of Hilton's crimes on the families of his victims and the law enforcement officers who investigated his case.
Outlines
The Case of Gary Hilton
This episode of Wild Crime Blood Mountain focuses on the case of Gary Hilton, a serial killer who terrorized the Appalachian Mountains. The episode explores his crimes, trial, and the impact on his victims' families.
The Discovery of John Bryant's Remains
The episode begins with the discovery of John Bryant's remains in the Natahela National Forest. A pacemaker found inside the rib cage confirmed the identity of the victim.
Linking Gary Hilton to the Bryant Murders
Investigators found evidence linking Gary Hilton to the Bryant murders, including a yellow rain jacket and blood matching John Bryant's DNA in Hilton's van.
Hilton's Extradition and Prosecution
Hilton was indicted in Florida for the death of Cheryl Dunlough. He fought extradition but was ultimately transported to Leon County for prosecution. The episode discusses the charges against Hilton and the evidence presented at his trial.
Mitigation, Sentencing, and Guilty Plea
The episode explores the mitigating factors presented by the defense, including a head injury and medication for MS. Hilton was sentenced to death for the murder of Cheryl Dunlap. The jury found him guilty and unanimously recommended the death penalty. Hilton entered a guilty plea for the murders of John and Irene Bryant in North Carolina, avoiding the death penalty.
Unsolved Cases and Impact
The episode explores the possibility of other victims and the unsolved case of Levi Frady, a young boy found murdered in Dawson Forest. The episode delves into the unsolved cases of Patrice Andrews and Rosanna Miliani. The episode concludes with reflections on the impact of Gary Hilton's crimes on the families of his victims and the law enforcement officers who investigated his case.
Keywords
Serial Killer
A person who commits two or more murders, typically with a cooling-off period between each crime.
Psychopathy
A personality disorder characterized by a lack of empathy, remorse, and guilt, often accompanied by impulsive and risky behavior.
Unsolved Case
A criminal investigation that has not been closed due to a lack of evidence or identification of the perpetrator.
Cold Case
An unsolved criminal investigation that has been inactive for a significant period of time.
Mitigation Specialist
A professional who works with the defense team in a criminal case to gather and present mitigating factors that may reduce the severity of the sentence.
DNA Evidence
Biological evidence, such as blood or hair, that can be used to identify individuals or link them to a crime scene.
Death Penalty
A legal punishment that involves the execution of a convicted criminal.
Appalachian Mountains
A mountain range in the eastern United States, known for its rugged terrain and dense forests.
National Forest
A large area of public land managed by the U.S. Forest Service, often containing forests, mountains, and rivers.
Q&A
What evidence linked Gary Hilton to the murders of John and Irene Bryant?
Investigators found a yellow rain jacket and blood matching John Bryant's DNA in Hilton's van.
What mitigating factors were presented by the defense in Hilton's trial?
The defense presented a head injury Hilton sustained as a child and his use of medication for MS.
What was the significance of the videos recovered from Hilton's van?
The videos captured Hilton making incriminating statements about murder and hiding things, providing further evidence of his guilt.
What is the status of the Patrice Andrews case?
The case remains unsolved, and investigators are still seeking information about a blue car seen at her shop on the day of her disappearance.
What is the connection between Gary Hilton and the Rosanna Miliani case?
A witness reported seeing Rosanna with a man who resembled Hilton, leading investigators to consider him a suspect.
What is the impact of Gary Hilton's crimes on the families of his victims?
The families of Hilton's victims have been deeply affected by his crimes, and many continue to seek answers and closure.
What is the message of the episode for those who enjoy hiking and exploring national forests?
The episode highlights the importance of being aware of your surroundings and taking precautions when hiking alone, as danger can lurk even in seemingly safe places.
Show Notes
Wild Crime Season 3: Blood Mountain
Episode 4: More Victims?
Georgia sentences Hilton to life; now Florida tries him for killing Cheryl Dunlap. We reveal his childhood and meet others who vanished; are they his victims too? We end with investigators talking about Meredith’s legacy and how the case affected them.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Table of contents
United States
