In the debut episode of Reno Murders: Death in the Biggest Little City, we investigate the case of David Stephen Middleton — a former police officer turned notorious “Cable Guy Serial Killer.” Once abusing his badge in Miami and later hiding in plain sight in Colorado and Nevada, Middleton used uniforms and jobs as a chilling disguise to gain access to women.
This true crime episode covers:
The suspected 1984 Colorado murder of Buffy Rice Donohue
The abduction and killing of Thelma Amparo Davila
The brutal Reno murder of beloved teacher Katherine “Sunshine” Powell
With forensic evidence, courtroom testimony, and Middleton’s disturbing attempt to imitate Ted Bundy by “consulting” the FBI, this case shows how predators manipulate trust and power.
More than just the story of a serial killer, this episode remembers the victims whose lives were cut short and how their deaths shook Reno, Sparks, Verdi, and Sun Valley.
References and reading resources for the show:
Middleton v. State (Nevada Supreme Court, 1998). https://caselaw.findlaw.com/court/nv-supreme-court/1091373.html
Sheriff, Washoe County v. Middleton (Nevada Supreme Court, 1996). https://law.justia.com/cases/nevada/supreme-court/1996/28778-1.html
Middleton v. State case summary. https://case-law.vlex.com/vid/middleton-v-state-no-888723495
David Stephen Middleton profile (Radford University Serial Killer Project PDF). https://maamodt.asp.radford.edu/psyc%20405/serial%20killers/Middleton%2C%20David.pdf
Donohue v. Hoey (10th Circuit, 2004). https://ca10.washburnlaw.edu/cases/2004/09/02-1405.htm
“David Stephen Middleton: The ‘Cable Guy’ and His Dark Legacy.” Medium. https://medium.com/%40chelsealynnqueen94/david-stephen-middleton-the-cable-guy-and-his-dark-legacy-of-murder-and-rape-cb69a3ecffc0
Reno Gazette-Journal archives on David Stephen Middleton (coverage of Katherine “Sunshine” Powell case and related hearings).
Disclaimer & Listener Warning
This podcast discusses sensitive and potentially disturbing topics, including murder, sexual assault, domestic violence, and suicide. Listener discretion is advised. All information presented has been compiled from publicly available records, news reports, archival sources, and historical accounts. While care has been taken to ensure accuracy, details may vary depending on source material.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help through your local crisis hotline or support services.
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