In January 2008, Reno was shaken by the disappearance of 19-year-old college student Brianna Denison. Abducted from a friend’s home near the University of Nevada campus, her case became one of the most high-profile investigations in the city’s history. This episode uncovers the chilling details of her abduction, the DNA trail that connected her case to other assaults, and the eventual capture of predator James Biela.
We’ll explore how the community responded, the trial that gripped Nevada, and why Brianna’s story continues to resonate today.
References & Resources
ABC News — “Body Found in Reno Is Missing Student”
This article confirms when her body was discovered in a field, the identification by the Washoe County Coroner, and other details from the investigation. ABC News
ABC News — “Face of a Serial Rapist Has Reno on Edge”
Reports about how DNA linked multiple assaults, community reaction, police sketches, etc. ABC News
CBS News — “Brianna Denison Murder Verdict: James Biela Found Guilty of Killing, Raping College Student”
Details of the trial, the conviction of James Michael Biela, and legal outcomes. CBS News
Reno Gazette-Journal — “From 2010: Taken from a friend's house, her body left in an empty field”
A local news piece with lots of specifics: how friends discovered something was wrong, how the investigation unfolded, the discovery of the body, etc. Reno Gazette-Journal
Reno Gazette-Journal — “Brianna Denison story airs on ‘Dateline’”
Coverage of the case being featured on Dateline, which can be useful for people interested in media portrayals.
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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