Dateline NBC “The Day Alissa Disappeared” December 1 2023 Recap & Preview
Prepare for an emotionally charged and chilling journey into a true crime mystery that will leave you questioning everything. Dateline presents an all-new, two-hour special titled “The Day Alissa Disappeared,” and it’s set to air on Friday, December 1, at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT.
The heart-wrenching story begins with the disappearance of 17-year-old Alissa Turney in Phoenix. When she vanishes without a trace, the initial investigation doesn’t treat her case as a homicide. But as the years pass, new revelations come to light that will send shivers down your spine.
Join Dateline’s trusted reporter, Andrea Canning, as she delves deep into this perplexing case. Through her meticulous investigation, Canning uncovers the dark and disturbing secrets that have been hidden within Alissa’s family for far too long.
In “The Day Alissa Disappeared,” you’ll witness the relentless pursuit of justice by Detective William Andersen, who refuses to let Alissa’s case fade into obscurity. Alongside him is Alissa’s brother, James Turney, who plays a crucial role in seeking the truth about his sister’s mysterious disappearance.
Deputy County Attorney Vince Imbordino adds his perspective to the story, shedding light on the dramatic courtroom battle that ensues as dark family secrets are laid bare for all to see.
Set against the backdrop of Phoenix, Arizona, this two-hour Dateline special promises to be a gripping and suspenseful account of a case that will leave you in awe. As the investigation takes shocking turns and uncovers buried truths, you’ll be on the edge of your seat, unable to look away.
Mark your calendars for Friday, December 1, at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT, and prepare to be riveted by “The Day Alissa Disappeared.” Dateline is back with a compelling true crime story that will have you questioning the very nature of justice and the secrets that can tear families apart.
What Happened to Alissa Turney?
Alissa was a 17-year-old high school junior living in Phoenix, Arizona. She resided with her stepfather, Michael Turney, and her half-sister, Sarah Turney. At the time, Alissa was employed at the fast-food restaurant Jack in the Box and had a boyfriend.
On May 17, 2001, which was the last day of Alissa’s junior year at Paradise Valley High School, she had a disagreement with her stepfather, Michael Turney. According to Michael, he dropped her off at school as usual but picked her up around lunchtime. Allegedly, their argument escalated, and Alissa stormed off. Later, a note was found in her bedroom, supposedly written by her, claiming that she was running away to California. Strangely, Alissa left her cellphone and personal belongings behind, and she did not attend a party she had plans for that night.
In 2008, the case was reopened, and Michael Turney became the primary suspect. Law enforcement searched the Turney home and discovered a cache of weapons, including more than two dozen improvised explosive devices, 19 firearms, two homemade silencers, and a van full of gasoline. They also uncovered a disturbing manifesto outlining Michael’s plans for a violent attack on the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers building in Phoenix.
The investigation took an unexpected turn when self-proclaimed serial killer Thomas Albert Hymer claimed to have killed Alissa. However, Phoenix police questioned Hymer and found no evidence linking him to Alissa’s disappearance. He admitted that he might have confused her with another victim.
In August 2020, Michael Turney was arrested in Mesa, Arizona, and indicted on second-degree murder charges in connection with Alissa’s disappearance. Prosecutors argued that Alissa would have been in contact with her family or friends if she were alive, and the lack of contact suggested foul play.
Michael Turney’s trial began in July 2023. During the trial, Sarah Turney, Alissa’s half-sister, emotionally testified about her father’s behavior and his response when she asked him about Alissa’s fate. However, after the state rested its case and defense arguments, the judge ruled in favor of the defense, citing a lack of substantial evidence to support a conviction. Consequently, all charges against Michael Turney were dropped, and he was released from custody in July 2023.
As of September 2023, Alissa’s body has not been found, and the case remains unsolved.
It seems like the prosecution should have been better prepared. The judge excluded so much evidence that he was able to acquit. Can this be appealed? I am a long time viewer of Dateline and know a guilty coward when I see one. Well, I saw one last night.