Missouri murder mystery of Mischelle Lawless investigated by 48 Hours

The investigative program ‘48 Hours’ is examining the 1992 murder of 19-year-old Mischelle Lawless in Missouri. Lawless was discovered bludgeoned and shot to death in her vehicle during the early morning hours of November 8, 1992.

Investigators used blood evidence at the scene to reconstruct the victim's final moments, suggesting an argument may have occurred before she ended up over a guardrail. Lawless, described by her friend Melissa Gaines as a fearless karate green belt, was found by part-time deputy sheriff Rick Walter. The case remains a significant mystery in the small community of Benton.