Issue 329, February 17 2025

Tragic Homicide of Lucy Harrison in Prosper, Texas: 5 Suspects Charged in Murder of Sam Nordquist

February 17, 2025

🕵️^{Trivia Question}

Is second-degree murder a federal or state charge?
Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

PODCAST: 20/20 | Small Town, Big Con

The probe into a multimillion-dollar scam within a tight-knit community leads investigators to uncover the murder of a young father.

Listen Now

What’s Happening Now

Tragic Homicide of Lucy Harrison Investigated in Prosper, Texas

Lucy Harrison, a 23-year-old woman from England, was found dead in her father's home in Prosper, Texas, on Jan. 10.

An autopsy confirmed she died from a gunshot wound to the chest, ruled a homicide.

The investigation has been conducted by the Prosper Police Department, and the Collin County District Attorney's office is reviewing the case.

The medical examiner's report stated that Harrison was shot by another person, and she tested positive for caffeine but negative for other substances.

Her family described her as someone full of love and life.

A hearing is scheduled in the UK regarding her death.

5 Suspects Charged in Murder of Missing Transgender Man, Sam Nordquist

Five suspects have been charged by New York State police in connection with the murder of a missing transgender man, Sam Nordquist.

Nordquist, a 24-year-old from Minnesota who went missing in February, was discovered to have been subjected to prolonged abuse starting in December.

The suspects, Precious Arzuaga, Patrick Goodwin, Kyle Sage, Jennifer Quijano, and Emily Motyka, are facing second-degree murder charges.

Nordquist's body was found in a field in Benton, New York, with police uncovering evidence of physical and psychological abuse.

The case has been described as one of the worst homicides by the New York State Police, with investigations ongoing to determine the relationships between the victim and suspects.

☎️ Safety Tip of the Day: Be cautious when responding to unsolicited emails or phone calls offering deals or asking for money.

Many scams, such as phishing and lottery frauds, begin with unexpected communications promising something too good to be true. Avoid sharing financial details or personal information with strangers. If the offer seems suspicious, research it before taking any action. Reporting these incidents to authorities can help protect others from falling victim to similar crimes.

Cold Case Highlights

Family of Murdered Teen Justine Vanderschoot Fights for Justice and Prevention

Justine Vanderschoot, a high school student passionate about fashion, was tragically murdered in 2003 by Brandon Fernandez and Danny Bezemer.

Despite their attempts to evade justice, both were eventually convicted for their roles in her death.

Justine's family continues to fight for justice and has advocated for victims' rights and teen dating violence prevention education.

A judge recently upheld Brandon's conviction, denying his motion for resentencing.

The Vanderschoots remain committed to ensuring that Justine's legacy is one of preventing similar tragedies.

Both Brandon and Danny have upcoming parole hearings, with the family vowing to never give up their fight for justice.

Amie Harwick's Legacy: A Tragic Tale of Love, Loss, and Justice

Five years after her murder on February 15, 2020, Hollywood therapist Amie Harwick's tragic story remains fresh.

Roommate Michael Herman recalls the horrifying night when he tried to save her, helpless to prevent the violent attack.

The evidence pointed to Harwick's ex-boyfriend, Gareth Pursehouse, as the perpetrator.

Despite the defense's attempts to shift blame, Pursehouse was found guilty of first-degree murder.

The trial brought closure to Harwick's family and friends, but the void left by her absence remains.

Harwick's legacy as a healer and advocate for vulnerable women lives on, inspiring efforts to improve domestic violence laws.

Watch Now / Read More

PODCAST: Snapped: Women Who Murder | Teresa Kohnle

After a man dies in a house fire, his wife and children are left to cope with the shock of his sudden loss.

Listen Now

🔍^{Trivia Answer}
Second-degree murder is typically a state charge.

Murder charges, including second-degree murder, are handled at the state level in the U.S., though federal murder charges can apply in certain circumstances, such as when crossing state lines or involving federal law enforcement.