232: The Darkest Ride: Terror Lurking in the Bushes | The Disappearance of Amber Barker
Serialously with Annie Elise
Deep Dive
What happened to Amber Barker on December 18, 1997?
Amber Barker, a 10-year-old girl from Oklahoma City, disappeared on December 18, 1997, while riding her bicycle home from a friend's house. She never arrived home, and her bike was later found in Denniston Park. Despite extensive searches, Amber was never found, and her disappearance remains unsolved.
Why was Daniel Smith considered a suspect in Amber Barker's disappearance?
Daniel Smith, the common-law husband of Amber's sister Debbie, was considered a suspect due to his suspicious behavior and prior criminal history. He had a conviction for attempted kidnapping and was known to have a violent relationship with Debbie. Additionally, blue fibers found on Amber's clothing matched the interior of his car, and he was present at the house when Amber called her mother before disappearing.
What evidence was found after Amber Barker's disappearance?
After Amber's disappearance, her blue bicycle was found in Denniston Park. Later, her shoes, a sweater, a sock, and a silver ring were discovered scattered across the neighborhood. The sweater had vomit on it, which possibly contained semen, and one of her shoes had a small speck of blood. These findings suggested foul play and possible sexual assault.
What was the significance of the blue fibers found on Amber's sweater?
The blue fibers found on Amber's sweater were significant because they matched the interior of Daniel Smith's car, which had blue carpet, seats, and dashboard. This connection led investigators to consider Daniel a suspect in her disappearance, as it placed him or his car at the scene of the crime.
Why did the police investigate Forrest Rice in relation to Amber Barker's case?
Forrest Rice, a close friend of Daniel Smith, was investigated because he was with Daniel on the night of Amber's disappearance and the day of his suicide. Police collected his DNA to compare it with the partial DNA found in the vomit on Amber's sweater, though no match was confirmed. Forrest was not considered a suspect but was believed to have information about the case.
What was the outcome of the investigation into Amber Barker's disappearance?
Despite extensive investigations, Amber Barker was never found, and no suspect was publicly named. The case remains open, with periodic reviews by new teams of investigators. Partial DNA evidence was recovered, but no conclusive matches were made. The case continues to be a mystery, with ongoing efforts to find answers.
What role did Joseph Bishop play in the investigation of Amber Barker's disappearance?
Joseph Bishop, who was dating Amber's sister Brandy at the time, was present at the house when Amber called her mother before disappearing. He claimed Daniel Smith overheard the call and left immediately afterward, heading in the direction of Amber's route. Joseph was treated as a person of interest, though he maintained his innocence and passed a polygraph test.
- Amber Barker was last seen alive on December 18, 1997, after visiting a friend's house.
- She was a responsible child and was expected to return home by sunset.
- Amber's mother, Bonnie, initiated a search after realizing Amber was missing.
- The initial police theory was that Amber might have been hit by a car, but this was later ruled out.
- Amber's bike was found in good condition at Denniston Park, raising more questions about her disappearance.
Shownotes Transcript