Delia D'Ambra

Park Predators is an Audiochuck production.

You can view a list of all the source material for this episode on our website, parkpredators.com.

And you can also follow Park Predators on Instagram, at Park Predators.

I think Chuck would approve.

Hi park enthusiasts, it's Delia.

If you listen to Park Predators, you already know that sometimes the most beautiful places can hide the darkest secrets.

But what happens when the danger isn't miles from civilization?

It's in your community, and sometimes even in your own backyard.

On Crime Junkie, hosts Ashley and Britt dive into real cases every week, from missing persons to unsolved murders, breaking down what we know, what we don't, and the details that still don't sit right.

If you care about the stories behind the headlines and the victims at the center of them, you'll want to check out Crime Junkie.

Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.

Hi, park enthusiasts.

I'm your host, Delia D'Ambra.

And the case I'm going to share with you today takes place in Oswald West State Park in Oregon.

Big draws to this park are lots of trails, sandy beaches, and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.

If you drive about two hours west of the city of Portland, you'll run right into it.

The park is a go-to spot for beachcombers, surfers, hikers, and recreationalists seeking to experience the best of Oregon's coastline.

There are several areas that house secluded coves and beaches, and if you're someone who's into long-distance treks, 13 miles of the Oregon Coast Trail wind through the park to give you a pretty decent taste of what it has to offer.

You can't camp at Oswald West these days, but it didn't always used to be that way.

Back in 1999, there were a few select places where visitors could pitch a tent, and it was at one of those spots that two park rangers came face-to-face with a dangerous human predator.