In this Missouri Mayhem episode, the sisters delve into the perplexing disappearance and death of 19-year-old Tanner Ward in Trenton, Missouri. Despite official rulings of suicide, numerous inconsistencies and unanswered questions keep Tanner’s case alive in the community’s heart. Join us as we explore the facts, theories, and ongoing fight for justice.

IF YOU HAVE MORE INFO ABOUT THIS CASE, PLEASE CONTACT:

• DALLAS COUNTY SHERIFF DEPT - (417) 345-2441
• TRENTON POLICE DEPT - (660) 359-5557

Primary News & Reporting

1. True Crime News (Crime Watch Daily / Chris Hansen) “Mystery in Missouri: What Happened to Tanner Ward?” – Covers the disappearance, discovery, decomposition details, and family objections – Includes statements from Trenton police and Tanner’s mother
2. KTTN Radio (Trenton, MO) Endangered Person Advisory Issued for Tanner Ward – Initial disappearance details, physical description, timeline – Local reporting closest to the case
3. Gallatin North Missourian (December 2017 archives) Body Identified as Tanner Ward – Official identification, coroner involvement, suicide ruling – Statements from local officials
4. Trenton Police Department – Public statements regarding the suicide ruling – Claims regarding decomposition, animal activity, and length of suspension.
5. Grundy County Coroner’s Office – Cause and manner of death determination – Autopsy coordination with Kansas City forensic lab
6. Missouri State Highway Patrol – Endangered Person Advisory June 13, 2017
7. Crime Watch Daily with Chris Hansen – National exposure of the case – Highlights inconsistencies raised by the family – Introduced the case to a broader true-crime audience.

In this Missouri Mayhem episode, Mindy & Megan delve into the heartbreaking case of 18-year-old Kelsey Smith, abducted in broad daylight in Kansas City in 2007. Her story highlights the importance of awareness, quick action, and legislative change to prevent similar tragedies.

Key Topics:

• The detailed timeline of Kelsey's abduction and discovery
• Surveillance footage and the predator's profile
• The role of cell phone records and delayed investigations
• The creation and impact of the Kelsey Smith Act
• Preventative safety tips for women in public spaces
• The heroic efforts of her family and community to honor her legacy
• How her story led to national policy changes
• Tips for personal safety and awareness in everyday life.

Resources: Official & Background Information

Wikipedia – Murder of Kelsey Smith

A detailed case summary, timeline, key facts, links to original sources, and external resources like archived documents. 🔗 Wikipedia page: Murder of Kelsey Smith — overview, details of the abduction, investigation, arrest, and aftermath.

FBI Archive — Kelsey Smith Foundation & Case Summary

Official archived FBI material including summary of the case and response, plus the origins of the Kelsey Smith Foundation. 🔗 FBI archives — includes background on the investigation and aftermath.

Major News Coverage from the Time

These are primary news reports from 2007 that document the key moments of the case:

• KCUR – Police Arrest Suspect in Kelsey Smith Murder Case

Discusses the suspect arrest and initial law enforcement statements.

• Missourinet – Accused Killer Eligible for Death Penalty

Context on charges and legal proceedings in 2007.

• Missourinet – Suspect in Kelsey Smith Killing Has Violent Past

Additional background on the accused’s history and investigation details.

• CBS News Reports (Archived)

Multiple early AP/CBS reports (formerly hosted online) covering:

• Arrest and charges filed
• Location of the body in a wooded area
• Early trial coverage

Note: These older news links may now only be accessible via archives or news databases.

Media & Documentary References

National Media Coverage

The case was reported nationally and featured on multiple platforms such as:

• CNN and NBC News coverage of the abduction and arrest
• Featured on America’s Most Wanted
• True-crime TV episodes (e.g., Investigation Discovery) These programs include background interviews, case analysis, and surveillance footage highlights.

Missouri Mayhem - The Murder of Ken McElroy - Discover the dark history behind Skidmore, Missouri, where community fears and legendary vigilance led to an infamous unresolved murder. This episode explores how a town's attempt at justice spiraled into a centuries-long mystery filled with violence, silence, and unanswered questions.

📚 RESOURCES & FURTHER LISTENING

• Harry N. MacLean — In Broad Daylight
• FBI historical case summaries
• Missouri State Highway Patrol archives
• A&E City Confidential episode on Skidmore
• Newspaper archives from the Kansas City Star and St. Joseph News-Press
• The Breaking Point of a Town - Website - timeline