Ep 3. Horror in Idaho

This episode of ABC 20/20 season 46, titled "Horror in Idaho," takes viewers to the small town of Rupert, Idaho, where a brutal crime shocked the community and made national headlines. In 2011, 20-year-old Cassie Jo Stoddart was housesitting for her aunt and uncle when she was tragically murdered in cold blood, along with her boyfriend's cousin, Nick. The two teenagers were staying in the home when they were brutally attacked by two of their peers, high school classmates, who were obsessed with the horror movie "Scream."

The episode starts with Cassie's parents, family members, and close friends sharing their memories of her and the day she was taken from them. Then, the focus shifts to the investigation of the crime and how the police were able to solve the case and bring the perpetrators to justice.

The episode features interviews with the investigators who worked tirelessly to solve the case, including Detective Dale Winters, who was the lead investigator at the time. They discuss how the police narrowed down their suspect list and eventually arrested two teenagers, Torey Adamcik and Brian Draper, for the murder.

Next, the episode delves into the killers' motivations, which were found in numerous journal entries and videos the two made before and after the murder. According to these documents, the two teenagers were inspired by the horror movie "Scream" and wanted to be serial killers like the characters in the movie.

ABC 20/20's "Horror in Idaho" explores the impact of this heinous crime on the small town of Rupert, Idaho. The episode includes interviews with Cassie's loved ones, who speak about the grief and trauma they continue to feel years after her death, as well as community members who recount their shock at learning that two of their own classmates were responsible.

The episode takes viewers inside the court case against Adamcik and Draper, who were both tried and convicted of first-degree murder. The prosecution presents evidence of the brutality of the murder and the killers' obvious obsession with violence and horror movies. Defense attorneys argue that the teenagers were not entirely responsible for their actions given their young age and mental health issues.

Ultimately, the jury found the two teenagers guilty, and they were sentenced to life in prison for their crimes. ABC 20/20's "Horror in Idaho" concludes with a reflection on the impact of this senseless tragedy and the stark reminder that even in small, close-knit communities, violence can strike at any time.

Through interviews with family members, friends, investigators, and legal experts, this episode of ABC 20/20 offers the viewer an in-depth look at this famous case, which continues to captivate the country's attention. "Horror in Idaho" reminds us of the importance of justice, community, and the power of love in the face of senseless violence.