Crime Beat

On this episode of the Global News podcast Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt shares the story of the evil and senseless plot against Ray Johnson. Johnson was a kind and generous soul, the kind of man who would give the shirt off of his back to someone in need. He was an antiques and collectibles dealer and had a table at a Calgary flea market. In January of 2009 he celebrated his 77th birthday, and enjoyed daily routines that included coffee every morning to start his day with his youngest daughter. That’s exactly how Friday, Jan. 30, 2009 began. Ray and his daughter Bonnie went out for breakfast and sat and read the paper together. They ended their meeting with a hug and goodbyes and promised to see each other at dinner later that night. In the meantime, he went to a garage sale with one of his close friends -- then planned to meet up with an online seller who had reached out to him about some items he might be interested in. When Ray didn’t show up for dinner that night, his daughter thought he must have gotten delayed at a garage sale. He loved to visit, even with complete strangers. But the next day, when she still couldn’t reach her father, Bonnie started to worry. She called family and friends and even tried local hospitals to see if Ray had been in an accident. No one had heard from her father. Bonnie called police and reported him missing. The next afternoon, investigators met with the Johnson family to update them on his case. Their father was found dead -- murdered. Follow along as family and friends helped investigators retrace Ray Johnson’s last steps. And, learn the shocking and senseless reason he was targeted. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nancy.hixt/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The deadliest shooting spree in Canada’s modern history left us with far more questions than answers. Join Sarah Ritchie, a reporter for Global News in Halifax, as she tries to unravel how something like this could happen there. Sarah will take you through every hour, as it unfolded and together you’ll try and piece together what happened, what could or should’ve been done to prevent it and what we can learn to make sure a tragedy of this magnitude never happens again. 13 Hours: Inside the Nova Scotia Massacre: Listen NOW! https://link.chtbl.com/13hours Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Global News podcast Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt shares the story of a young mother who’s plans to rebuild her life were tragically interrupted. March 10, 2015, was a typical Monday for Jessica Newman. Her boyfriend took her home that morning after a weekend together at his place. Later that afternoon, her roommate dropped her off at a Calgary bar and grill so she could work the night shift. Her roommate expected to hear her come home around 10 that night. The hours passed and Jessica never came home. Her roommate didn’t immediately worry--he figured she must have met up with friends. But after she missed several important appointments and work shifts--and no one heard from her for a few days--her family and friends all began to worry. Newman’s roommate called 911 and reported her missing. Police retraced her steps--and found her footprints of life had ended: no bank transactions, texts, internet or phone activity after that Monday night. What had happened to the young mother, and was she a victim of foul play? Learn the shocking details police uncovered as they investigated her mysterious disappearance. Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Global News podcast Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt shares the story that will leave you questioning what horrors you can encounter-- just two doors down. May 4, 2013 was a beautiful spring day in Calgary. In one suburb, new neighbours met for the first time and decided to get together for a barbeque and drinks. It was a memorable night filled with good conversation and laughter… There’s a lasting reminder of that evening, a photo of the two men with their arms around each other, smiling. They appeared to be having a great time, but just minutes after that photo was taken tragedy struck. One of the men called 911. The other was pronounced dead at the scene, before he could be rushed to the hospital. He was later identified as Calgary middle school teacher, Craig Kelloway. An autopsy revealed Kelloway was stabbed 37 times. The question was, how did things turn so badly so quickly? It’s a case that continues to haunt the lead investigator. Follow along as we share the story of Mr. Kelloway in the season three premiere of Crime Beat. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nancy Hixt has been a crime reporter for nearly 25 years and in that time she's pretty much seen it all. Things she never imagined possible, things she never believed one human would do to another. On Season 3 of Crime Beat she'll share stories that can only be described as mind-blowing and with so many twists and turns they're hard to believe they’re fact, not fiction. Real crimes… Real people …Real journalism Crime Beat season three begins October 20. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Global News crime reporter Nancy Hixt shares new information and insight into cases from the past two seasons in this special episode of Crime Beat. Listen to updates and insights to the following cases: If I can’t have you no one can - https://www.nadiashopefoundation.com/ The boy who overcame the odds The final homecoming of Lukas Strasser-Hird The boy who fell through the cracks Concrete Angel Darkness in the Pass The Brentwood five massacre Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After the release of Crime Beat: Daniel, silenced at 26 days, crime reporter Nancy Hixt received countless messages from listeners who reached out about the case—including many who knew Shelby Herchak, Daniel's mother, at that time. In an update to this story--we share with you a new perspective on baby Daniel’s story--from another person who has been impacted by his death. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Global News podcast Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt shares a story of a child whose life was silenced, snuffed out and stolen-- so young he never had a chance. In the summer of 2010, EMS were called to a Calgary home where an 18-year-old single mom, Shelby Herchak, lived with her parents and her baby. The infant, just 26 days old, was rushed to hospital. But baby Daniel Herchak’s injuries were so severe, he died hours later. At a media conference soon after, Calgary police stated the cause of death was determined to be blunt force trauma to the head. Officers said Daniel’s injuries were believed to be non-accidental in nature. Police formally interviewed Herchak twice and said her story changed each time--and the explanations didn’t add up when compared to the evidence. 14 days after baby Daniel died, his mother was charged with second-degree murder. But the case would take several major turns. Herchak had bail granted and revoked several times. Then, in September of 2012, the trial date was abandoned and the case was temporarily put on hold--while some of the work done by the medical examiner, in this case, was reviewed. Alberta Justice ordered an independent external review panel to look at 14 of Dr. Evan Matshes’ cases. The panel found his findings “unreasonable” in 13 of those 14 cases. In baby Daniel's case, the panel agreed with the finding of homicide, and the cause of death-- but deemed his findings unreasonable because he noted there were signs of prior abuse. Then, that government review-- was called into question. A Queen’s Bench Justice ruled the government review was unfair and quashed the results. The judge also ordered Alberta Justice to pay for a large portion of Matshes legal costs. In this episode, Dr. Matshes speaks to Hixt about the review. It’s the first time he’s ever spoken to a reporter about the investigation and he said he wanted to set the record straight. Because of the controversy surrounding the government review another pathologist provided expertise in the Herchak case instead of Matshes. They came up with the same findings: it was deemed a homicide and the cause of death was blunt force head trauma. Daniel suffered two fractures to the skull, extensive bleeding, bruising to the head and face, bruising and swelling of the brain, nerve damage along the spine, bruising to the chest abdomen and back and hemorrhaging to both eyes Then, on the eve of her trial, Shelby Herchak pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter. She was sentenced to five and a half years in jail but with credit for time in custody pre-trial, she had just two and a half left to serve. It was only during that time in prison, the Herchak finally shed light on what happened that fateful morning. Hear those admissions, along with an exclusive interview with the primary investigator in this case in this episode of Crime Beat: Daniel, silenced at 26 days. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Global News podcast Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt shares the story of a man who became the victim of a senseless crime and the unfortunate hands life dealt him throughout his life. This case began, in the spring of 2014, when the co-manager of a Calgary Walmart was closing up shop and getting ready to head home. As he walked out to the parking lot with several coworkers, they spotted a man on a nearby bench who looked to be in medical distress. A closer look revealed the man was unconscious and lying in a pool of blood. The store manager called 911. Police and EMS arrived within minutes. The man was badly beaten and had been stabbed twice. He was rushed to hospital in serious, life-threatening condition but later died. An autopsy revealed he died from a loss of blood caused by the stab wounds. The victim was Gabriel Okeynan, 45, a father of four and his death became a homicide investigation. The question was, who did this to him, and why? This is a case that highlights what the detective in charge of this case refers to as “good old fashioned police work.” Follow along as police investigated a trail of evidence and unravelled a complicated series of events to solve this case. It’s the story about the paths we choose...and the paths that choose us--and how every decision we make impacts our lives. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode begins with an investigation that rocked Alberta's foster care system. Garry Prokopishin took in troubled teenage boys: kids with behavioural and substance abuse issues. His foster home was considered a last resort for teens who had nowhere else to go. Those boys described having all the freedom in the world at the Prokopishin’s. They were allowed to smoke, they could have friends over, party, go out and not get in trouble. Prokopishin also took them out for dinner and drinks and made the boys feel special. A local association recognized him for his tireless efforts with boys, naming him “foster parent of the year." By 2009, Prokopishin had been operating a foster home for nearly 20 years and during that time 55 teenage boys had come under his care. Then, one young man came forward alleging sexual abuse. Before long, police revealed that abuse went beyond just one victim. The court process revealed Prokopishin used money and threats to manipulate the boys into keeping the abuse a secret for years. But what set these young boys on a path that led to the Prokopishin home in the first place? In covering this case, Hixt came to meet one of the young victims who revealed the abuse went much deeper. That’s what set the stage for his time with Prokopishin, who preyed on his vulnerability. Follow the shocking turns this case took as Nancy Hixt shares the story of young boy who was abandoned by the very people who were supposed to show him unconditional love and left him wanting a loving home. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Global News crime reporter Nancy Hixt, turns to the experts including police, judges and lawyers, to answer your questions about crime, the courts and COVID-19 -- and what it all means for your safety. The novel coronavirus has affected all of us. Many have lost loved ones, businesses have closed, thousands have lost their jobs. People are asked to stay home wherever possible, to self-isolate and to maintain social distancing. With that, there are added strains on many relationships. Advocacy groups are seeing increased rates of domestic and sexual violence -- in some areas, the number of reported incidents has tripled. Others, can’t avoid going out -- including essential service providers like doctors, nurses and hospital staff. That also includes those working to maintain public safety during a time of heightened anxiety. Police are experiencing new challenges and are noticing a change in the types of crimes they’re being asked to investigate. With more people working from home, house break-ins are down, but many closed businesses have been left more vulnerable and commercial break-ins are on the rise. There have also been cases where COVID-19 has been used as a weapon against police, in the form of coughing and spitting on first-responders. Experts note one silver lining in this difficult time--and that is the increased use of technology to keep the wheels of justice moving. Video conferencing and teleconferencing is being used whenever possible to deal with bail, sentencing hearings and even trials. Other court cases are being delayed because of the need to follow social distancing and limits on people gathered in one place, including jury trials. That’s raised concerns about an already strained Canadian justice system and what that means for keeping up with time limits imposed by the Supreme Court of Canada on how long a case can take from start to finish. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Global News podcast Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt brings us to Part 3 of her special series, the Brentwood five massacre. This episode takes an in-depth look at what it means to be found not criminally responsible (NCR) in Canada. Carol de Delley understands the anguish of what NCR can mean for the family of a victim, as few others can. She lost her son, Timothy McLean, in one of the most high profile cases in Canadian history where the killer was found NCR. In 2008, McLean was brutally attacked by a stranger—a man who sat next to him as they rode a Greyhound bus. McLean was stabbed more than 100 times. He was mutilated and cannibalized. Vince Li was charged with second-degree murder Less than a year later, he was found not criminally responsible for his actions. Just eight years after that, Vince Li (who changed his name to Will Baker) was granted an absolute discharge. That ruling gave him complete freedom. He never has to receive treatment or take medication again—if he chooses not to. The families of the Brentwood five are concerned the same thing that happened to McLean’s killer will happen to the man who killed their five children in the Spring of 2014. Matthew de Grood was originally charged with five counts of first-degree murder but was later deemed to be NCR for the stabbing deaths of Lawrence Hong, Kaiti Perras, Jordan Segura, Josh Hunter and Zackariah Rathwell. The judge ruled de Grood was suffering from a mental disorder that rendered him incapable of knowing that his actions were wrong when committed the worst mass killing in Calgary’s history. The finding meant de Grood would not go to prison and he would not have a criminal record. He was no longer a part of the Canadian criminal justice system. Instead, he was moved to the healthcare system. De Grood’s case is assessed on a yearly basis by the Alberta Review Board (ARB) and each year the board has three options: to continue his treatment in a secure facility, to grant him a conditional discharge or to grant him an absolute discharge. In the conclusion of “the Brentwood five massacre” you’ll hear from the families of these five victims, and from Timothy McLean’s mother. They are working together to lobby for a change in Canadian legislation so killers deemed to be NCR would be mandated to continue their treatment and monitoring indefinitely. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Instagram: @nancy.hixt Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lawrence Hong, Kaiti Perras, Jordan Segura, Josh Hunter and Zackariah Rathwell were a group of talented young people with promising futures. On this episode of the Global News podcast Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt brings us to Part 2 of her special series, the Brentwood five massacre. What started out as a party to mark the end of classes at the University of Calgary ended in a horrific tragedy. It happened quickly and without warning. In less than a minute the five victims were stabbed in the biggest mass killing in Calgary’s history. Police arrived on the scene less than five minutes after the first call to 911. To add to the complexity of the case, investigators quickly learned the suspect was the son of one of their own. The accused was the 22-year-old son of a veteran, high ranking officer with the Calgary Police Service and would soon be charged with five counts of first-degree murder. But what led to such a horrific and violent attack? Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On April 14, 2014, a group of friends had a small get-together at their home near the University of Calgary campus in the northwest neighbourhood of Brentwood. Five young people shared a small, grey-and-blue split-level house on a quiet block on Butler Crescent. The house was a well-known rental for university students that many affectionately called the “Butler Mansion.” It was a relatively small gathering, with many of those invited having gone to junior high or high school together. The rest knew each other from university. It was an amazing group of young people that included an accomplished dancer, an aspiring urban planner, two talented musicians, and a young man who was well on his way to becoming a humanitarian. For the most part, the mood of the party was laid back and relaxed. No one could have predicted the terrifying turn the night would take and how quickly it would all unravel. It was a day that left a scar on the soul of the city -- the biggest mass killing in Calgary’s history. On this episode of the Global News podcast Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt looks the Brentwood five massacre. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode Global News crime reporter Nancy Hixt is joined by an investigator who’s worked on many of the high profile cases featured on Crime Beat. In this special conversation with retired homicide Det. Tom Barrow, the veteran officer opens up in a raw, intimate way, and provides new insight into the demons that continue to haunt him. Listen to this episode now for exclusive behind the scenes details on several cases we’ve covered on the show and ones we’ll be profiling in the coming months. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nancy Hixt shares a story that highlights how fragile life can be. On a crisp summer evening in August 2014, a young woman was enjoying a night out with some friends in downtown Calgary. Natasha Farah, 26, was originally from Toronto, but came to Calgary a year earlier for work and to further her education. That night, Farah was feeling especially nostalgic and had a long heart-to-heart with her best friend and also called her mother back home in Toronto. Neither of them realized how precious those talks would later become. That night, the group of friends stayed right until closing time, and after that, they kept visiting out front of the club, not wanting the night to end. That’s when gunfire erupted. A series of shots were fired into the air — and then into the crowd. One of those bullets hit and killed Farah – an innocent bystander. Witnesses watched as the gunman took off in a getaway car. Follow along to learn how detectives and forensic crime scene investigators worked together to track the killer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In 2002, Lisa was 19 and working several jobs to put herself through university. One of which was at a Calgary tanning salon. Lisa is not her real name. Her identity is protected by a court-imposed publication ban. She is smart and a hard worker, and it appeared she made a good impression on the owners of the salon. After just a couple of months, she was offered an incredible opportunity -- the chance to manage her own store. She was asked to meet with the owner’s nephew one evening after work to go over details of the job. That meeting seemed to go smoothly until right before she was about to leave. Learn the shocking details of the night that left her paralyzed with fear – and hear why Lisa has been forced to relive the trauma over and over again. On this episode of the Global News podcast Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt shares the story of a young woman who was presented with a golden opportunity -- instead, it would tarnish her whole life. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At 29 years old, Lisa Mitchell had a lot on her plate. Lisa and her common-law husband, Allan Shyback, had two children. In the fall of 2012, she juggled two jobs to try to make ends meet and provide for her family. Then one day-- she disappeared-- leaving her common-law husband and two children behind. The only clues were a few short emails and a cryptic voicemail to her mother. For more than two years, her mother held out hope Lisa would return. On this episode of the Global News podcast Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt shares the shocking twist this case took. Follow along as investigators work to uncover the mystery behind Lisa's disappearance. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this special year-end episode of Crime Beat, Global News crime reporter Nancy Hixt is joined by L.A. Times journalist and Pulitzer Prize finalist Christopher Goffard, who is the reporter and host of two podcasts, Dirty John and Detective Trapp. Nancy and Christopher pull back the curtain on crime reporting in a way that only two people who have covered this beat can. They talk crime and justice, and provide a look at how two journalists work to uncover the truth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

18-year-old, Lukas Strasser-Hird had aspirations of becoming a trauma surgeon. Instead, on November 23, 2013, he laid on an operating table, as a trauma surgeon worked to try and save his life. He was out at a nightclub, celebrating his return from a year studying abroad, when he became the victim of a savage attack. It took mere minutes for a group of guys to swarm him. He was kicked, stabbed and beaten beyond recognition. It was so hard to comprehend how this happened to Lukas-- and over what? All he did was defend a stranger. Police had their work cut out for them-- with so many involved in the attack... it was a daunting task. To make matters worse...the savage swarming was not captured on surveillance video… Would there ever be justice for Lukas? On this episode of the Global News podcast Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt concludes her two-part series, and follows along as his family was dealt a series of debilitating blows in their search for justice in his case. Follow the emotional rollercoaster Lukas’ loved ones have been on for more than six years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At 18, Lukas Strasser-Hird’s future was bright. After a year studying abroad, he had aspirations to become a doctor. The day he arrived back in Calgary, he went out with friends to celebrate his homecoming. It was a fun night, until last-call. No one could have predicted how dangerous the situation was about to become. It’s a story that will leave you questioning what the person next to you at a bar is capable of. On this episode of the Global News podcast Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt begins a two-part series on a case that devastated a Calgary family. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Maryam Rashidi’s life focused on creating opportunities for her son. But in 2015, both Rashidi and her husband were laid off from their jobs in the oil and gas industry. June 7, 2015, was her fourth shift working at a Calgary gas station — a job she took to make ends meet. That morning, Rashidi said goodbye to her husband and son, and went to work — the last time they would get to talk to her. Just hours later, they would learn Rashidi was taken by ambulance to the hospital. She’d been run over while trying to stop a gas-and-dash. Follow the twists and turns this case took and hear from the offender himself, who chose to run Rashidi over rather than pay for $113 worth of fuel. In this episode, you’ll also hear the far-reaching the impact this crime has had. If you enjoy Crime Beat, please take a minute to rate it on Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts, tell us what you think and share the show with your friends. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Global News podcast Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt shares the story Brittney McInnes, the concrete angel. At 17 and just months from graduation, McInnes had her whole life ahead of her. But in January 2010, the Calgary teen disappeared. Police were called to investigate, but the search came up empty. Hours later, Brittney’s family discovered her body. Follow along as police unraveled the web of lies her killer had created, and hear his confession—audio that’s never been made public before. In this episode, you’ll also learn details of further allegations in this case. If you enjoy Crime Beat, please take a minute to rate it on Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts, tell us what you think and share the show with your friends. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Global News Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt shares the story of a young boy who fell through the cracks. You’ll hear from those who loved Alex Radita, those who fought to keep him alive and healthy, and those who fought for justice in his case. And for the first time, you’ll hear a recorded interview with Alex himself — who knew what he needed most to save his life. In May 2013, police were called to a home in northwest Calgary for reports of a teenage boy in medical distress. Nothing could have prepared first responders for what they found. Alex was found unconscious, lying in a bed in an upstairs room of his home. He was skin and bones. He had no useable teeth and was covered in dozens of ulcers and sores. The 15-year-old was wearing a diaper and weighed just 37 pounds. Despite all efforts by paramedics to resuscitate Alex, it was too late. The Calgary police homicide unit began investigating and what they found was that Alex’s death was not only completely preventable, but it was murder. More than a decade before he died, doctors and RCMP investigators in B.C. predicted this would happen to Alex if he wasn’t provided proper medical treatment for his Type 1 diabetes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s a case the family of the victims call a real life horror show. On this episode of the Global News podcast Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt takes you through the details of the crimes committed against Terry Blanchette and his two-year-old daughter Hailey Dunbar Blanchette. Follow along as we reveal evidence investigators uncovered, and an exclusive interview with the mother of the triple-murderer in this case. Her life has been shattered by her son’s actions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two people dead ...and a two year old child gone missing. A small community in the Rocky Mountains...shattered. On this episode of the Global News podcast Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt takes you through one of the most disturbing cases she’s covered – one which the family of the victims call a real life horror show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Season two premieres October 8th. Ride along with Crime Reporter Nancy Hixt, as she takes you through some of Canada’s most high profile criminal cases, shining a light into the darkness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Executive Producer Chris Duncombe sits down with Global News crime reporter and host of Crime Beat, Nancy Hixt, for an in depth interview about the podcast and answers audience questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In July 2016, a Calgary mother, Sara Baillie, was found dead in her home, and her five-year-old daughter, Taliyah Marsman, was missing. Three days later, an Amber Alert came to a heartbreaking end when the little girl was found dead. On this episode of Global News podcast Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt takes a look at who killed Sara and Taliyah. Hours after Taliyah’s body was recovered, police announced a man was charged in the case. Edward Downey was accused of two counts of first-degree murder. Sara and Taliyah’s family was left with so many questions. The man accused of this incomprehensible crime wasn’t even on the family’s radar. Why would Downey kill Sara, let alone her child? For more details on the case check this out https://wp.me/p2Y4rw-nJ4M If you enjoy Crime Beat, please take a minute to rate it on Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts, tell us what you think and share the show with your friends. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Crime reporter Nancy Hixt tells the story of an inseparable duo, a young Calgary mother and her little girl. In July 2016 Sara Baillie was found dead in her house, and her five-year-old daughter was missing. Police issued an Alberta-wide Amber Alert, and the frantic search for the little girl began. Family held out hope Taliyah would be found alive, but three days later, her body was found in bushes outside the city limits. Follow along as police hunt for a killer and the shocking twist their investigation took. Part 1 of Sara and Taliyah’s story is available now in episode eleven of Crime Beat. If you enjoy Crime Beat, please take a minute to rate it on Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts, tell us what you think and share the show with your friends. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Global News podcast Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt tells the story of a man who came face-to-face with pure evil. Mark Mariani, 47, suffered from Crohn’s disease for more than half of his life. On Oct. 1, 2010, Mark was given new hope, thanks to medical advancements. Doctors told him he might not need his colostomy bag anymore. The next night, he headed to his favourite western bar to do some two-steppin’ and meet up with friends. It was the following morning when Mark’s family received a call from police. Mark was found dead in a Calgary strip mall parking lot — his keys, wallet and cell phone were found in a nearby alley. Follow along as homicide detectives investigate the murder of Mark Mariani, and unravel the shocking reason why he was killed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nancy Hixt tells the story of an unbreakable bond between a Calgary father and daughter. Sarah Rae was Gord Rae’s only child. In his eyes, the sun would rise and set on her. Their special daddy-daughter bond only grew as Sarah got older. Then, on Aug. 3, 2008, a stranger showed up at Gord’s doorstep. It was a Calgary police homicide detective. Sarah, 24, had been murdered. Sarah’s boyfriend, Travis Martel, found her body in the home he shared with his mother. He told police he owed a large gambling debt and that’s likely why Sarah was killed. Follow the twists and turns, including the shocking discovery of a graphic and disturbing video that led police to solve the case. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nancy Hixt tells the story of a young Calgary father who vanished without a trace. For several years, Ryan Lane had been involved in a battle to see his daughter. After a breakup with the child’s mother, it became more and more difficult for Lane to see the little girl. Then, in February 2012, he was granted a court-ordered visit and reunited with his four-year-old daughter for the first time in two years. The daddy and daughter spent time eating, playing and laughing together at Chuck E. Cheese. It was one of the happiest days of Lane’s life. That night, Lane Skyped with one of his closest friends and shared videos of the playdate. Just before midnight, that chat was interrupted when Lane got a call from a phone booth. He rushed out to meet the caller at a nearby strip mall. That was the last time Lane was ever seen. Calgary police detectives used every possible investigative strategy to try and find Lane. Find out what happened to Lane, and the senseless tragedy his family has had to deal with in episode eight of “Crime Beat.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Global News podcast Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt shares the devastating impact of a sexual predator. In 2003, a young Calgary woman was in her own home, when a stranger broke in and attacked her. She was bound, raped, beaten and threatened. Six months later, it happened again. A second woman, sexually assaulted in her own home, just blocks from where the first woman was attacked. The details were so similar — both women were sexually assaulted in their own homes by a violent stranger. Police knew it was the same offender. A serial rapist was preying on young women. For investigators, it was a race against time to try and catch this monster before he could strike again. The tactics used to try to catch this rapist will likely surprise you. And for the first time, hear from one of the people impacted most by the horrific actions of this sex offender. Follow the story of the “Beltline Rapist” in episode seven of “Crime Beat.” If you enjoy Crime Beat, please take a minute to rate it on Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts, tell us what you think and share the show with your friends. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode we're bringing you details of the Kelly Cook case that have never been reported before. In 1981, Kelly took a job to babysit for someone new named Bill Christensen. The 15-year-old was never seen alive again.What most people don’t know is that Kelly was not the killer’s first choice. She was the “backup babysitter.” Christensen's first choice was a 17-year-old girl. In the small rural community of Standard, in southern Alberta, the 17-year-old received a call from Christensen, but she already had plans so she turned him down. Christensen then asked the girl for names of other babysitters in the area. One of the names she gave was Kelly Cook. That original target, who we’ll refer to as Stacey, has never spoken to a journalist about what happened — until now. Global News is not using Stacey’s real name, as she continues to fear for her safety. Thirty-eight years later, and the case continues to impacted every aspect of her life and will continue to until the killer is caught. Police continue to investigate the case but are still waiting for the tip they need to solve it. If you know anything that can help police as they investigate Kelly's homicide, call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477. If you enjoy Crime Beat, please take a minute to rate it on Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts, tell us what you think and share the show with your friends. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt tells the story of Kelly Cook, a young girl who was abducted from Standard, Alta., 38 years ago. Kelly had taken a job babysitting someone new — and then, she was gone. Her body was found June 28, 1981 in an irrigation canal south of Taber. Investigators said it was obvious someone had gone through a lot of work to make sure Kelly would never be found, but a drought in the area had lowered the water level and revealed her weighed-down body. The case turned into a homicide investigation and the manhunt for a killer began. Join Nancy Hixt as she takes you through the abduction and murder of Kelly Cook: what leads investigators have looked at and why it’s become a cold case. If you enjoy Crime Beat, please take a minute to rate it on Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts, tell us what you think and share the show with your friends. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Crime reporter Nancy Hixt tells a story of an aspiring actress who mysteriously disappeared from Calgary, Alta., in November 2014. Shannon Madill had everything going for her. She had just landed an audition for a role in a television series, and was looking forward to moving from Calgary to Edmonton. That audition was recorded on video. Hours later she vanished. It was only when Shannon missed a planned dinner with her older brother that her family realized she was missing and called police. By then, she was already gone for several days. Her parents, siblings and husband stood side by side in front of the media at Calgary Police Headquarters to make a plea for help in finding her, and at one point, spoke directly to Shannon. Investigators looked into her cell phone, medical and banking records, but all leads came up empty. The days turned into months. Police tried to prepare the Madill family for all possible outcomes. Seven months later, the case took a shocking turn. The disturbing details are revealed in an interview with police. This Crime Beat episode is the first time those recordings are being made public. Find out what happened to Shannon Madill following her final audition in episode four of Crime Beat. If you enjoy Crime Beat, please take a minute to rate it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, tell us what you think and share the show with your friends. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we look at a story of deadly infatuation. Join Nancy Hixt as she explains how a young girl was targeted — simply because she spurned a young man’s advances. Nadia El-Dib’s family said Nadia had broken things off with Adam Bettahar, and her body was found in a Calgary woman’s backyard March 25, 2018. She was stabbed dozens of times and shot twice. Police called her death an “execution.” Anyone needing help with violence or abuse in an intimate relationship is encouraged to reach out for help by calling Connect Family & Sexual Abuse Network at 403 -237-5888 (Toll Free: 1-877-237-5888), the 24-hour Family Violence Helpline at 403-234-SAFE (7233), or 211. If you enjoy Crime Beat, please take a minute to rate it on Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts, tell us what you think and share the show with your friends. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt takes you through the mind blowing twists and turns in Randy Safronovich’s life. Safronovich jokes that he must have nine lives. The Sylvan Lake businessman was the victim of a home invasion robbery in June 2013. At one point, the offender put a gun to his head, and pulled the trigger. By some miracle, the gun misfired and Safronovich survived. It was a life changing moment, but surprisingly, not the first time Safronovich managed to evade death. "I guess I will write a book called dodged a bullet twice now," Safronovich told Global News. Find out why the FBI was consulted for his case, in a real-life story that plays out more like a Hollywood film. If you enjoy Crime Beat, please take a minute to rate it on Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts, tell us what you think and share the show with your friends. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Crime Beat, crime reporter Nancy Hixt takes you through the case--step by step. Follow along as she reveals the shocking behind the scenes details of the Meika Jordan case --and goes through the evidence as it was uncovered by investigators in their quest for justice for Meika. Meika Jordan was a bright, cheery and playful six year old. When she was rushed to hospital with serious life threatening injuries, her father and step-mother told police she had fallen down the stairs. But the injuries didn’t match that explanation. Meika later died in hospital. That was the beginning of a lengthy investigation into her death--lead by the Calgary Police Homicide Unit. The little girl was from a split family--she spent half of her time with her biological dad Spencer Jordan and her step-mother Marie Magoon. She spent the other half of her time with her biological mother Kyla Woodhouse, and her step-father Brian Woodhouse. Early on, it became clear to detectives there were two people with the sole opportunity to kill Meika. But why would anyone kill such a beautiful and innocent little girl? If you enjoy Crime Beat, please take a minute to rate it on Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts, tell us what you think and share the show with your friends. Contact: Twitter: @nancyhixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: [email protected] Resources: If you suspect a child is in immediate danger please call 911. For more information or if you're looking for support: https://kidshelpphone.ca/ https://calgarycac.ca/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

People know their hometowns by streets, a favorite restaurant or the local mall. Crime Reporter Nancy Hixt knows hers by the crime scenes she's been to over the past 20 years. Journey deep inside some of Canada’s most high-profile criminal cases. Each episode will take you inside the story to give you details you didn't hear on the news. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices