This case feels a little closer to home, becaus I live in the Phoenix area. Alissa Turney, a 17-year-old high school junior from Phoenix, Arizona, disappeared on May 17, 2001. Initially considered a runaway, her case took a darker turn over the years, leading to suspicions of foul play involving her stepfather, Michael Turney
Alissa lived with her stepfather, Michael Turney, and half-sister, Sarah Turney. On the day of her disappearance, which was the last day of her junior year, Michael claimed he picked her up early from school, they had a disagreement, and she subsequently left home, leaving behind a note indicating she was running away to California.
However, she left behind personal belongings, including her cell phone and a substantial amount of money from her bank account, casting doubt on the runaway theory. Authorities initially treated Alissa’s disappearance as that of a runaway, resulting in limited investigative action in the early stages.
The case was reopened in 2008, and attention turned to Michael Turney. A search of his home uncovered a significant cache of weapons and a manifesto detailing plans for an attack on a local union hall. He was arrested and convicted on weapons charges, serving time in prison.
Alissa’s half-sister, Sarah, became a prominent advocate for the case, utilizing social media platforms, including TikTok and her podcast “Voices for Justice,” to raise awareness and apply public pressure for further investigation.
In August 2020, Michael Turney was arrested and charged with second-degree murder in connection with Alissa’s disappearance. The trial concluded in 2023 with his acquittal due to insufficient physical evidence establishing Alissa’s death or linking him conclusively to a crime.
As of now, Alissa Turney remains missing, and her case is unresolved. Despite extensive media coverage, public advocacy, and legal proceedings, no definitive answers have been found regarding her fate.
