Dateline NBC “The Butterfly” September 27 2024 Recap & Preview

On Friday, September 27, 2024, NBC’s “Dateline” will feature a chilling report titled “The Butterfly,” highlighting the tragic disappearance and eventual death of Katelyn Markham. Andrea Canning will investigate this compelling case, which unfolded over 13 years and ultimately led to the conviction of her fiancé, John Carter.

Katelyn, a 21-year-old art student, went missing in August 2011, just days before her 22nd birthday. When she failed to show up for work at David’s Bridal, her family reported her missing. Police discovered her car, keys, and dog at her townhouse, but Katelyn was nowhere to be found. Despite an extensive search, her skeletal remains were not located until April 2013, in a remote wooded area in Indiana, approximately 30 miles from her home.

Initially treated as a missing persons case, Katelyn’s death was later ruled a homicide, but the cause remained undetermined. It wasn’t until March 2023 that Carter was arrested, following an 18-month investigation that revisited the evidence and circumstances surrounding Katelyn’s disappearance.

Carter eventually pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and was sentenced to three years in prison in July 2024. Despite the plea deal, he made no admissions regarding the specifics of Katelyn’s death. Prosecutor Michael Gmoser highlighted the challenges faced during the investigation, including differing opinions among officers and the absence of a clear cause of death, which complicated the case.

Markham’s father, Dave, expressed relief at the sentencing but emphasized that this is not the end of the search for justice. Gmoser intends to continue investigating and pursuing further charges, including potential perjury against individuals involved in the case.

Tune in to “Dateline” on NBC for an in-depth look at this heartbreaking story, featuring interviews and insights that shed light on Katelyn Markham’s tragic fate.