Dark Dialogue: April Millsap Part 2: Blood in the Branches – The Investigation Begins

On July 24, 2014, the quiet town of Armada, Michigan was forever changed when 14-year-old April Millsap set out for a walk with her dog and never came home. What began as a summer evening stroll on the Macomb Orchard Trail ended in a brutal attack that left investigators — and an entire community — reeling.

In this episode of Dark Dialogue, we take you inside the earliest hours of the investigation: the discovery of April’s body, the haunting evidence imprinted on her skin, and the chilling clues left behind. We break down the autopsy findings, the forensic trail, and the first wave of interviews and community leads that shaped the manhunt for her killer.

From suspicious vehicles and anonymous tips, to the digital breadcrumbs hidden in April’s FitBit and cell phone data, we uncover how investigators began piecing together a story written in both violence and silence. This episode also explores the emotional fallout for April’s family, the shock that spread through Armada, and the community’s first steps toward unity in the face of tragedy.

🔎 What you’ll hear in this episode:

• A step-by-step breakdown of the crime scene and forensic evidence

• How April’s digital trail provided investigators with a silent witness

• Early suspects and leads — from a “white van” to local teens — and why they were cleared

• The community’s grief, fear, and resilience in the wake of the murder

• A heartfelt tribute to April’s life, dreams, and enduring impact

⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains detailed discussions of violent crime and autopsy findings that may be distressing for some listeners.

✨ Support Our Work & Get Involved: If April’s story moves you, help keep her memory alive. Follow and review Dark Dialogue on your favorite podcast app, share this episode to raise awareness, and consider joining the Dark Dialogue Collective or our Adopt-a-Victim Program to support ongoing case research.

📬 Have a case suggestion or a tip? Email us at [e-mail]. 💜 Patreon | ☕ Ko-fi | 📖 Substack → Exclusive content, behind-the-scenes updates, and more.

Because April mattered. Her story deserves to be heard. And together — we keep the dialogue alive.