48 Hours The Hunt for Sarah Yarborough’s Killer Airs October 5 2024 on CBS

On Saturday, October 5, 2024, at 9:00 PM ET/PT, 48 HOURS presents an encore of “The Hunt for Sarah Yarborough’s Killer,” reported by Natalie Morales. This gripping episode revisits the tragic story of 16-year-old honor student Sarah Yarborough, who was murdered outside her high school in Federal Way, Washington, on December 14, 1991. As she was on her way to drill team practice, Sarah never arrived, and her body was discovered just a short distance from her car on the school campus.

Morales interviews key figures involved in the case, including Sarah’s family and friends, who share their memories and the impact of her death on their lives. The episode also features a survivor who had been attacked by the same man years earlier, shedding light on the long road to justice for Sarah.

The investigation took a dark turn when Drew Miller, then just 13 years old, and a friend stumbled upon a mysterious man in the bushes on the school grounds. Miller recalls, “He’s just staring at us from the bushes,” a moment that shifted from shock to fear as they later discovered Sarah’s body in that same area. Retired detective Scott Strathy, one of the first responders to the scene, reflects on the horror of the situation, describing it as “pure unadulterated evil” given Sarah’s innocent appearance in her drill team uniform.

In the early stages of the investigation, DNA evidence was found on Sarah’s clothing, raising hopes that her killer would soon be identified. With the assistance of Miller, who provided a sketch of the man they saw, the case initially appeared promising. However, as time passed without an arrest, the case went cold for nearly three decades, leading to growing frustration and despair among those who knew Sarah.

Thanks to advancements in DNA technology and forensic genetic genealogy, investigators eventually identified Patrick Nicholas as the prime suspect and made an arrest. Nicholas had a history of violence against women and had been released early from prison prior to Sarah’s murder.

This episode of 48 HOURS not only highlights the emotional toll of a decades-long pursuit for justice but also underscores the advancements in forensic science that finally brought closure to Sarah Yarborough’s family and friends. Tune in to witness this haunting and powerful story of resilience and the relentless pursuit of justice.

Release Date & Time: 9:00 PM Saturday 5 October 2024 on CBS

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