I think we have all compared the Dermond abduction/murder/decapitation case with many other cases past. The abduction/murder/decapitation of John & Irene Bryant(10/2007-NC) is the only case that comes to my mind..
John and Irene Bryant touched the lives of their neighbors and friends with their kindness, their daughter said of the couple, who have been missing in Pisgah National Forest three weeks.
Ethan Smith with the Brevard Rescue Squad said, "Probably the most likely scenario at this point is that they went hiking, either got lost or had a medical problem and were unable to get out."
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*Found Deceased NC - John Bryant, 79, & Irene Bryant - NC
http://www.blueridgenow.com/article/20071111/NEWS/711110398/0/OPINION02
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If the perp/s had taken both S & R Dermond and disposed of both of their bodies in lake oconee w/o leaving any signs of a crime. They would have been considered as only missing persons/adults. Other than a possible Silver Alert being initiated, the investigation would have had much less; urgency, investigative resources dedicated, and would have simply been a mystery...
Adults have the right to go missing..
The decapitation of RD and his missing head, combined with the torso being left in the garage changed not only the urgency of the investigation, but the horrific nature and magnitude of the crime.. Seems, the perp/s would have had to know that this would be the case.
The brazen perp/s were making a statement, while challenging authorities, imo.. Ask yourself Why?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3_85GXsKqk