Deep Dive
What are the main recreational activities available in Mark Twain National Forest and Ozark National Scenic Riverways?
Visitors can kayak, camp, river float, ride mountain bikes, horseback ride, or walk the park's more than 750 miles of trails.
Why are feral hogs considered the most harmful wildlife in the area?
Feral hogs destroy native plants and ecosystems, causing an estimated $1.5 billion in economic and environmental damage annually.
What was the unusual sight that caught the attention of park rangers at Buck Hollow?
An empty pickup truck with two pools of blood and a pair of eyeglasses outside the driver's side front door.
Why did investigators initially focus on Dylan Hanger as a person of interest?
Witnesses identified him as the shirtless man seen near Brittany's truck, contradicting his earlier statements to police.
What was the motive behind Dylan Hanger's actions according to the court filings?
The argument was over the division of their federal stimulus check funds, leading to a heated confrontation and murder.
How did Dylan Hanger's online activities provide clues to investigators?
He researched purchasing a gun in March 2020 but refrained from completing the transaction due to potential digital trail concerns.
What was the rationale behind the 25-year prison sentence request for Dylan Hanger?
The prosecution aimed to ensure his youngest child, who was five at the time of the murder, would be an adult by the time Dylan was released.
How did Brittany Gorman's family react to her disappearance and the subsequent investigation?
Her sister, Megan, used social media to seek public help, and the family expressed gratitude for the support and efforts of law enforcement agencies.
What was the significance of the location where Brittany Gorman's remains were found?
Her body was disposed of in a remote spot within Mark Twain National Forest, complicating the search and identification process.
How did Dylan Hanger's plea deal affect the charges against him?
The felony count for interstate domestic violence was dropped, leaving only the second-degree murder charge, which still carried a potential life sentence.
- Brittany's truck found abandoned with blood and eyeglasses.
- No missing persons report filed for Brittany.
- Law enforcement contacted to assist in the investigation.
Shownotes Transcript