Tragedy - A True Crime Podcast

S2E32 - Standing Beside the Search: Luke Twardowski on Loving Someone Who Won't Give Up

For more than three decades, the search for answers in Deanna Merryfield's disappearance has shaped the lives of everyone who loves her. But what is it like to marry into a family carrying that kind of heartbreak? In this episode, we sit down with Luke Twardowski, husband of Deanna's sister, Melissa, for a deeply personal conversation about what it's like to witness tragedy from the outside before becoming part of it. Luke shares his perspective on watching Melissa dedicate years of her life to advocating for her sister, the emotional toll that pursuit of justice has taken on their family, and why he has chosen to stand beside her every step of the way. Together, we discuss the challenges families face when they refuse to let a loved one be forgotten, the importance of community support, and Luke's thoughts on what law enforcement needs to move Deanna's case forward. We also explore how this journey has changed his own outlook on justice, perseverance, and the responsibility we all share in helping solve cold cases. If someone knows what happened to Deanna Merryfield, the answers are still out there. Sometimes, all it takes is one person deciding it's finally time to speak. Music License - CBTOH3OXKQ0G0YW5 Thank you for listening. Please visit us at www.tragedyatruecrimepodcast.com

S2E31 - BONUS - The Best Defense: Staying Aware with Mark Fricke

In this episode of Tragedy: A True Crime Podcast, we sit down with Mark Fricke, a former law enforcement officer and personal safety trainer, to discuss the practical skills that can help keep you from becoming a victim. Drawing from decades of real-world experience, Mark shares how situational awareness, preparation, and everyday habits can dramatically improve your personal safety. We explore the warning signs that are often overlooked, how criminals identify potential victims, and simple strategies anyone can use to become more aware of their surroundings. Mark also offers practical guidance on what to do if you find yourself in a dangerous situation, how to make quick decisions under stress, and why confidence and preparation can be powerful deterrents. This conversation isn't about living in fear—it's about living with awareness. Whether you're walking through a parking lot, traveling alone, or simply going about your daily routine, the lessons in this episode could help you protect yourself and those you love. Join us for an informative discussion that empowers listeners with knowledge, confidence, and practical tools for staying safe in an unpredictable world. Music License - ACIM74WYHELEYIVF Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2533686/support] Thank you for listening. Please visit us at www.tragedyatruecrimepodcast.com

S2E30 - The Path to Answers: Investigator Steve Gelinske on the Deanna Merryfield Case

More than three decades after Deanna Merryfield disappeared from Killeen, Texas, the search for answers continues. In this special episode, we sit down with private investigator Steve Gelinske, who has devoted countless hours to reviewing the case and following the evidence wherever it leads. Steve shares what he can safely discuss about the investigation, offering listeners a rare look into the challenges of working a cold case where memories have faded, records are incomplete, and every new lead must be carefully evaluated. He explains why patience matters, why investigations cannot be rushed, and how even the smallest detail can become the key that unlocks the truth. We also discuss the responsibility investigators carry, the importance of separating fact from rumor, and why community involvement remains essential after all these years. Most importantly, we want anyone who lived in Killeen, knew Deanna, or remembers anything from that time to know this: this case is solvable. Someone out there knows something. A memory, a conversation, or a detail once dismissed as insignificant may be exactly what is needed to bring answers to Deanna's family. If you know something, now is the time to speak. Thirty years may have passed, but the pursuit of truth never expires. Music License - ZU8JVNFJJXCKNSRD Thank you for listening. Please visit us at www.tragedyatruecrimepodcast.com

S2E29 - Still Searching: Melissa Twardowski and the Fight for Deanna

More than three decades after the disappearance of Deanna Merryfield, her family continues to search for answers. In this episode of Tragedy: A True Crime Podcast, Michael and Alyssa sit down with Deanna’s youngest sister, Melissa Twardowski, to revisit the case and examine the publicly available evidence that has kept hope alive. Together, they retrace the events surrounding Deanna’s disappearance, discuss how perceptions of the case have evolved over the years, and explore the powerful role that social media and online communities have played in renewing interest in the investigation. Melissa shares personal memories, the impact of living with unanswered questions, and why she remains committed to ensuring her sister’s story is never forgotten. This conversation is a reminder that time does not diminish love, and that sometimes a community united by compassion can help keep a search for truth alive. Music License - VCFRGND561WHCVYS Thank you for listening. Please visit us at www.tragedyatruecrimepodcast.com

S2E28 - Finding Deanna Merryfield: Thirty-Five Years of Refusing to Forget

In July 1990, 13-year-old Deanna Merryfield disappeared from Killeen, Texas. Her case was quickly labeled a runaway, and like so many missing children of that era, the investigation faded while the years marched on. But for Deanna's family, especially her younger sister Melissa, the search never stopped. More than three decades later, renewed efforts, new leads, and a growing public awareness are breathing life into a case that many assumed had been lost to history. Melissa has spent years fighting for answers, determined that her sister's name would not become just another forgotten file. In this episode, we explore the circumstances surrounding Deanna's disappearance, the failures that left critical questions unanswered, and the unwavering devotion of a sister who refuses to let Deanna's story disappear. Because no matter how much time has passed, every child deserves to be found, and every family deserves answers.  After 35 years, the search continues. And as long as Melissa keeps fighting, Deanna Merryfield's story will never be forgotten. Music License - 8BOHMIK2F3WNVOGA, I1LO8WMBHOUOJM18 Thank you for listening. Please visit us at www.tragedyatruecrimepodcast.com