“Meet the Other Me”: 20/20 Reports on Killer Shawn Grate November 22 2024

On November 22, 2024, ABC’s 20/20 will air “Meet the Other Me,” an in-depth exploration of a horrifying true crime case that rocked Ashland, Ohio. The two-hour special investigates the chilling events surrounding Shawn Grate, a serial killer whose heinous acts were uncovered thanks to a survivor’s brave 911 call. Correspondent John Quiñones leads the episode, which includes exclusive interviews with detectives, survivors, and families of the victims. The show provides a detailed account of the events, offering both emotional and investigative perspectives.

This episode shines a light on the heroism of law enforcement officers, including Detective Kim Mager, whose relentless pursuit of justice became instrumental in solving the case. With expert analysis and firsthand accounts, the program takes viewers through the complexities of Grate’s crimes, his eventual confessions, and the lasting impact on the Ashland community.

The Crimes That Shook Ashland

Shawn Michael Grate terrorized northern Ohio for over a decade, preying on vulnerable women from 2006 to 2016. Known for his deceptive charm, Grate used his ability to manipulate and exploit to lure his victims. His pattern of violence included kidnapping, sexual assault, and strangulation, often leaving bodies in abandoned properties. By the time of his capture, Grate had claimed the lives of five women.

The turning point in the case came in September 2016, when a woman referred to as “Jane Doe” managed to call 911 while being held captive by Grate. Police rescued her from a dilapidated house on Covert Court, where they also discovered the bodies of two other women. Grate later confessed to three additional murders, unveiling a horrifying trail of violence and broken lives.

The Role of Detective Kim Mager

Detective Kim Mager became a pivotal figure in the case against Shawn Grate. Known for her tenacity and psychological insight, she spearheaded the investigation and led the 33-hour interrogation that would ultimately result in Grate’s confessions. Mager’s ability to connect with Grate without showing judgment played a crucial role in uncovering details about his crimes.

Her interrogation techniques, likened to those of Clarice Starling from The Silence of the Lambs, focused on building a rapport with Grate. This allowed her to unravel the complex motives behind his actions. Mager’s determination and skill not only brought closure to the families of the victims but also highlighted the importance of empathy and perseverance in criminal investigations.

The Victims and Their Stories

Grate’s victims included Stacey Stanley, Elizabeth Griffith, Candice Cunningham, Rebekah Leicy, and Dana Lowrey. Each woman had a unique story, yet they shared tragic fates at the hands of a manipulative killer.

Stacey Stanley, also known as Stacey Hicks, had been reported missing shortly before her body was discovered in the Ashland house where Grate was apprehended. Elizabeth Griffith had been missing for a month when her remains were found at the same location. Candice Cunningham’s body was uncovered behind a burned house in Richland County after Grate provided directions. Rebekah Leicy’s death, initially ruled a drug overdose, was reclassified as a murder after Grate confessed to killing her. The identity of Dana Lowrey remained unknown for years until advancements in DNA technology confirmed her as one of Grate’s earliest victims.

The Trials and Sentencing

Shawn Grate’s legal proceedings were as complex as his crimes. He faced multiple charges, including aggravated murder, kidnapping, and sexual assault. Despite attempts by his defense team to argue insanity, Grate was found competent to stand trial.

In May 2018, Grate was convicted on multiple counts, including the murders of Stacey Stanley and Elizabeth Griffith, and was sentenced to death. Subsequent trials in Richland and Marion counties resulted in additional guilty pleas and life sentences for the murders of Candice Cunningham, Rebekah Leicy, and Dana Lowrey. Grate’s execution, initially scheduled for 2018, has been delayed due to ongoing appeals, with the Ohio Supreme Court upholding his death sentence in 2020.

The Legacy of the Case

The capture and conviction of Shawn Grate brought relief to a community shattered by fear and loss. The case also underscored the resilience of survivors like Jane Doe, whose bravery saved her life and led to the discovery of Grate’s crimes.

The house on Covert Court, where Grate was arrested and two victims were found, was later demolished as part of the city’s effort to move forward. However, the memory of the victims and the lessons from the investigation remain a lasting legacy. The tireless efforts of law enforcement, led by Detective Mager, have been immortalized in books, interviews, and now ABC’s 20/20, ensuring that the voices of the victims will never be forgotten.

This episode serves as a stark reminder of the depths of human depravity but also the power of courage and justice in the face of unimaginable evil.