The prime-time News 20/20 has been dedicatedly working to uncover the murder mystery of Taunja Bennett. Here’s the full report to it.
Taunja Bennett was just 23 years old at the time of her murder by Keith Hunter. Her killer, Keith, also known as Happy Face Killer, has spent behind bars for decades now.
Recently his daughter, gave an interview to a news network on 20/20, stating that his father should not be released from prison. She added, her father is not sorry for his crimes and might kill again if released.
20/20: Who Was Taunja Bennett?
Taunja Bennett was a happy soul who got murdered cold-bloodedly by Keith Hunter.
She was a native of Portland, Oregon, and was just 23 years old at the time of the murder. She was initially reported missing by her family on January 21, 1990. And a search party was organized to search for her.
On January 22 of the same year, her deceased body got located near the Columbia River Gorge. After an autopsy of the dead body, it was revealed that she was sexually abused, and signs of asphyxiation were seen.
But the cause of her death was believed to be something else. Her body was filled with bruises and had several injuries. It was reported that the killer beat her with a blunt object.
Murder and Death Update Of Taunja Bennett – How Did She Die?
Late Taunja Bennett was confirmed dead on January 22, just a day after she was reported missing. Her lifeless body got recovered from a River along the Old Columbia River Highway.
Her body had scars all over her body, and later an autopsy showed signs of strangulations. The County police statements also state that she could have been beaten by a blunt object causing the severe scars.
She was described as a happy and loving person by her friends and family. She was known for having the talent to put a happy smile on other faces. And that is how the killer got his nickname ” Happy Face Killer.”
Wikipedia Of Happy Face Killer Keith Hunter Jesperson
The Canadian-American Serial-Killer Keith Hunter has a Wikipedia profile which has a brief description of his crimes.
In an interview, he confessed to killing at least 185 people. But so far, only eight have been confirmed. He is currently serving his life sentence at the Oregon State Penitentiary.
Keith’s name became viral in the media after his first victim, Taunja Bennett’s body got recovered. His other victim’s identities are updated on his Wikipedia bio.