*Updated with corrected information from Hailey's mother April, please donate to her family below (GoFundMeLink For Hailey’s Girls, Luna & Mila )
In March 2023, 18-year-old Hailey Nieto—a young mother of two—vanished from her apartment at the Siegel Suites Nevadan in downtown Reno. Days later, her body was found stuffed in a duffel bag off a dirt road near Cold Springs. The investigation pointed to her neighbor, 39-year-old habitual criminal Todd Tonnochy, a man Hailey had already voiced fears about.
This episode unpacks the red flags Hailey shared before her death, the brutal details of the crime, how investigators connected Tonnochy to the murder, and the court case that ended with a life sentence. We also take time to remember Hailey—not just as a victim, but as a daughter, a dreamer studying to be a mortician, and a devoted mom to two little girls, Luna and Mila.
Resources & Support:A GoFundMe has been created to support Hailey’s daughters, organized by her mother, April: For Hailey’s Girls, Luna & Mila.
Reno Murders: Death in the Biggest Little City brings you the stories that reveal Reno’s shadow side—where danger can live just next door.
News & Case Coverage
KOLO 8 News Now – Suspect arrested in connection with the murder of Hailey Nieto; second suspect accused of destroying evidenceLink
KOLO 8 News Now – Opening statements in murder trial of Todd TonnochyLink
KOLO 8 News Now – Guilty verdict in murder of 18-year-old in 2023Link
KOLO 8 News Now – Tonnochy could serve life in prisonLink
MyNews4 – Jury deliberating murder case against Todd Tonnochy, accused of killing teen mom Hailey NietoLink
MyNews4 – Todd Tonnochy sentenced for brutal murder in RenoLink
Our Town Reno – New lawsuit in Hailey Nieto’s killing as sentencing days awayLink
Washoe County Sheriff’s Office – Press Release: Suspect arrested in Cold Springs homicide caseLink
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.
Support the Show
If you enjoy Deadly Truths, please rate, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps bring these stories to more listeners and keeps us exploring the darkest chapters of history and true crime.
