‘Ah,’ Beccah said, pausing for a beat before replying. I was nervous I’d pushed too far, but then she continued, ‘I can see how that would be frustrating for you. To basically be told your life could be in danger but then only be told those vague characteristics.’

‘Yes, exactly,’ I said, thankful she understood me.

‘So, here’s the thing,’ Beccah said. ‘The reason I’m able to cover this case so extensively is that I’ve developed a close bond with one of the retired detectives. We’d bounce ideas off each other, he’d give me quick peeks at cold case files, and in return I wouldn’t break his trust and publish details that could jeopardize the investigation. It’s been a relationship that I truly prioritize and value.’

My heart sunk. Was she about to tell me she, too, couldn’t help me? Her experience with the investigation was fascinating. I was envious of her access.

‘Wow,’ I said, clearing my throat. ‘It must be so interesting seeing case files and talking openly with someone so close to the investigation.’

‘Yes, it’s been both incredibly interesting and heartbreaking.’ She sighed, seemingly running through her options. ‘I’m not sure I feel comfortable telling you everything I know at this point but I don’t think there’d be much harm in sharing a few more profile details with you, to help you keep an eye out for your own safety. Us women have to stick together.’

A smile bloomed across my face, my blood pumping. ‘I totally understand and that would be incredible. Anything you could give me would be a big help. And I promise I won’t share what you tell me.’ At that moment, I decided having Beccah’s trust and access to her information was more important than filling Andie in on this call. She was already worried and getting burnt out on my determination for answers, so this was something I would keep to myself.

‘Great, I appreciate that. Well, in addition to what the FBI shared with you, I can tell you that we believe him to be college educated and have strong religious beliefs. Additionally, we believe he’s held a job that involves travel, particularly on the weekends, as that’s when he seems to hunt and abduct his victims.’

‘Because that would make it possible for him to cover such a wide geographic territory?’ I asked, hanging on to her every word.

‘Exactly,’ Beccah replied. ‘It’s even possible he visited these areas multiple times to stalk his victims before abducting them. His ability to abduct two women at a time and leave so little evidence and no witnesses behind points to his intelligence and methodical advance planning. And it’s likely he’s remained physically fit even as he ages. He’s extremely organized and skilled at what he does. Perhaps even to a level of OCD.’