Engaging Podcast Audience: The Mysterious Disappearance of Melissa
In 1971, a single mother named Alta Apantenco placed an ad in the local newspaper seeking a babysitter for her 21-month old daughter, Melissa. Little did Alta know that this simple act would set in motion a chain of events that would remain a mystery for the next 50 years.
Alta received a response from a woman named Ruth Johnson, who seemed perfect for the job. Ruth assured Alta that she had a spacious yard for Melissa to play in and had experience caring for other children. With these reassurances, Alta trusted Ruth with the responsibility of looking after her beloved daughter.
On August 23, 1971, Ruth arrived at Alta's home to pick up Melissa. Unfortunately, Alta had already left for work, but her roommate was there to welcome Ruth and hand over Melissa along with a diaper bag filled with the usual items for a day away from home. However, in the midst of the exchange, one crucial detail was overlooked - contact information. Neither Alta nor her roommate thought to exchange phone numbers or home addresses with Ruth before she left with Melissa.
As the day came to a close, Melissa was not returned home as planned. The disappearance of Melissa remained a haunting mystery for half a century until an extraordinary turn of events occurred. Melissa decided to take a DNA test, which would uncover her true identity and lead her to confront the woman she believed to be her mother.
Join Deb, along with Carmen, host of the captivating true crime podcast "Live, Laugh, Murder," as they delve into the intricate details of this perplexing case. Carmen, who also hosts her own podcast with a unique twist on true crime stories, gives us a glimpse into her thrilling content.
Listen to new episodes every Thursday wherever you get your podcasts! You can find all of our socials @dying2bfound and more at https://linktr.ee/dying2bfound. If you like what you hear, please share and give a 5-star review! Consider supporting us by buying us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dyingtobefound.
Intro & Extro Music: Undersea World by Dragonov
REFERENCES:
48 years after disappearance of Dallas child, family continues to search for her
How a woman kidnapped as child reunited with her family 51 years later
Melissa Highsmith vanished as a toddler, there's been no sign of her for 46 years
'It's a Christmas Miracle': Fort Worth Woman Reunited With Family 51 Years After Kidnapping
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