Deep Dive
Why did authorities initially treat Luke's disappearance as a runaway case?
Authorities labeled Luke's case as a missing endangered juvenile, focusing on his disability rather than considering it a potential abduction or serious crime.
What was the key evidence that led to Miguel Pacheco's arrest?
Surveillance video from Sequoia National Park showed Miguel driving through a park entrance in the early morning hours of November 18th, around the time he confessed to disposing of Luke's body.
How did Miguel Pacheco attempt to justify his actions during the trial?
Miguel's defense argued that he had accidentally killed Luke in self-defense, portraying Luke as the aggressor to seek a charge reduction to voluntary manslaughter.
What was the outcome of Miguel Pacheco's trial?
The jury found Miguel guilty of first-degree murder, and he was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison.
How did Luke's family react to the verdict?
Andrea, Luke's mother, expressed gratitude and relief, emphasizing her concern about Miguel's potential acquittal and its threat to her and her children.
What impact did Luke's murder have on his family?
Luke's murder deeply affected his family, leading to an estranged relationship between Andrea and Miguel, and prompting Miguel Jr. to change his name to Andrew.
What did Luke's letters reveal about his relationship with Miguel?
Luke's letters revealed instances of physical abuse by Miguel, including a time when Miguel punched him, leaving a black eye, and instructed Luke to lie about the cause.
- Luke Gulley, known as Luke, was a 14-year-old with Asperger's syndrome.
- He disappeared on November 18, 2013, and his remains were found in Sequoia National Park on November 21, 2013.
- The investigation involved local and federal authorities, including the FBI.
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