Chapter 1: A Life of Happiness

Bonnie Neighbors once radiated joy and contentment in her life. She expressed to her sister, “I’m the happiest I’ve ever been, Rachel. I’ve always dreamed of having another child and a new home. The Lord has blessed me, and I’ve never felt this fulfilled.”

However, that happiness was soon shattered.

On a cold winter day, Bonnie was found lifeless, with her four-month-old baby beside her, alive and crying.

Bonnie Faye Wheeler Neighbors was a 33-year-old woman from Benson, North Carolina. Described as beautiful and loving, she was a devoted Christian, a mother, and the wife of Kenneth Neighbors. Previously, she served as a secretary for the town’s mayor before taking a role at the Chamber of Commerce. Kenneth worked as an accountant and often returned home on weekends. The couple joyfully welcomed their second son, Arthur Glenn, in 1972.

Bonnie’s routine took a turn on December 14, 1972, when she left to pick up her seven-year-old son from school, bringing her infant along.

The milkman attempted to chat with her, but she sped past, seemingly ignoring him. He noticed Bonnie was not heading toward the school. Later that day, Kenneth received a distressing call from his father, informing him that Bonnie hadn’t picked up their son.

The following morning, Bonnie’s abandoned car was discovered on the roadside, containing fingerprints that did not belong to her. The town was gripped by panic as the search for Bonnie commenced. Helicopters scanned the area, and locals volunteered to aid in the search.

Three days later, a farmer’s son heard a baby crying in a nearby migrant camp.