What happened to Laci Peterson, subject of Netflix’s American Murder?

What happened to Laci Peterson, subject of Netflix’s American Murder?

As a seasoned movie reviewer with a keen eye for true crime documentaries and a heart that aches for justice, I must say, “The Murder of Laci Peterson” is a gripping tale that leaves one both captivated and saddened. This Netflix production offers an intimate look into the lives of those who were directly affected by this tragic event, providing a poignant reminder of the devastating impact domestic violence can have.


Warning: contains discussion of some topics that readers may find upsetting.

A fresh true crime documentary on Netflix delves into the unsolved case of Laci Peterson’s tragic demise, a pregnant woman who vanished under suspicious circumstances.

The documentary showcases live interviews with detectives, journalists, attorneys, and jury members sharing their personal accounts. Additionally, it features an exclusive discussion with Amber Frey, as well as Sharon Rocha, Laci’s mother, and her closest friends for the first time.

Over the course of these three episodes, I open up honestly about Laci’s passing, share my memories of Laci, and discuss the profound influence her death has had on my life. My intention is that by sharing Laci’s story with a new audience, I might inspire other women who are facing intimate partner violence to find the strength to break free from a similar heartbreaking situation.

But what exactly happened to Laci Peterson? Read on for all you need to know.

What happened to Laci Peterson?

What happened to Laci Peterson, subject of Netflix’s American Murder?

During the holiday season of 2002, Laci Peterson went missing from her residence in California while walking her pet dog. Notably, she was then eight months along in her pregnancy, expecting her firstborn child.

The authorities were informed by Scott Lee Peterson, her husband, about her vanishing, leading to a widespread investigation in the Modesto region, as law enforcement believed something suspicious had happened.

A few months down the line, a pair stumbled upon a late-term male fetus floating in San Francisco Bay. The very next day, another female body, visibly pregnant, appeared on the nearby shore approximately a mile away from where the baby had been discovered.

It was confirmed later on that the deceased individuals were indeed Laci and their unborn child, who they had affectionately named Conner.

Based on accounts, it appears that Laci was found without her head, neck, forearms, and a portion of her leg. Due to her remains being submerged in seawater and subjected to marine life, investigators could not definitively establish the reason for her demise.

Who is Scott Lee Peterson and where is he now?

What happened to Laci Peterson, subject of Netflix’s American Murder?

Scott Lee Peterson, aged 51, is now incarcerated indefinitely without the possibility of parole at Mule Creek State Prison located in California.

In November 2004, Peterson was found guilty on two charges related to murder. He was convicted of first-degree murder for the death of Laci, and of second-degree murder for the loss of their unborn child.

To this very moment, he continues to claim his innocence and denies any guilt, actively pursuing a re-trial through the Los Angeles Innocence Project at present.

“In a statement, the Los Angeles Innocence Project submitted motions on January 18th, 2024, asking for DNA testing and access to additional evidence in the case of their client, Scott Peterson. They are seeking this action on his behalf.”

“Questions regarding Mr. Peterson’s case should be forwarded to the Los Angeles Innocence Project, an entirely separate and self-governing entity from the Innocence Project.”

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2024-08-20 19:03