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“You Took My Daughter”: 20/20 Reports on Holley Wimunc Homicide November 7 2025

by · November 5, 2025

On Friday, November 7, 2025, ABC’s 20/20 aired a powerful and chilling two-hour special titled You Took My Daughter, documenting the disappearance and murder of Army 2nd Lt. Holley Wimunc. A nurse stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Holley was a devoted mother and service member whose sudden vanishing in July 2008 triggered a widespread search and a national reckoning with domestic violence within military ranks.

Holley was reported missing after she failed to report for duty. A visit to her apartment revealed a troubling scene: signs of a fire, the strong scent of gasoline, and a section of bedroom carpet deliberately removed. Her car remained outside. There was no sign of forced entry, but everything pointed to foul play.

Early Investigations: Multiple Theories and a Growing Sense of Dread

Authorities immediately launched an extensive investigation, unsure whether Holley had fallen victim to a random act of violence, a stalker, or someone closer to home. The summer had already seen the death of another female soldier, Sgt. Megan Touma, prompting concerns about a serial killer in the Fayetteville area. However, in Holley’s case, evidence soon began to paint a more intimate and disturbing picture.

Missing kitchen knives, cut carpet, and the presence of accelerants suggested an intentional effort to destroy evidence. NCIS agents led by Special Agent J.C. Hawks quickly shifted focus to Holley’s husband, Marine Cpl. John Wimunc. Though initially cooperative, Wimunc’s behavior raised red flags, and investigators learned about a volatile marriage marked by emotional abuse, threats, and physical violence.

Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors

Holley had taken steps to protect herself in the weeks leading up to her murder. She had filed for a restraining order against Wimunc in May 2008, citing threats, choking, and an incident where he allegedly held a gun to her head and carved initials into a bullet. The temporary order was dismissed when Holley failed to appear in court, a decision friends later said stemmed from fear and emotional exhaustion.

Those close to her—including coworkers and best friend Tra Anna Smith—described a once-loving relationship that deteriorated into control and cruelty. Holley came to work with visible injuries and often spoke of the emotional toll Wimunc’s behavior was taking. Friends expressed deep regret for not doing more, haunted by the warning signs that preceded her death.

Cracks in the Story: A Marine Comrade Comes Forward

Investigators soon identified a fellow Marine, Lance Cpl. Kyle Alden, as someone who may have helped Wimunc in the aftermath of Holley’s disappearance. Alden initially denied involvement but later confessed under pressure, especially after being shown photos of Holley’s children. His admissions broke the case wide open.

Alden revealed that Wimunc had summoned him to Fayetteville under false pretenses. When Alden arrived, Wimunc confessed to killing Holley during an argument. The details were harrowing: Holley had not died immediately, and Wimunc claimed to have struck her again. Together, they moved her body—placed in a military seabag—and set fire to her apartment in an effort to destroy evidence.

Later, they drove to Sneads Ferry, a remote wooded area near Camp Lejeune, where they dug a shallow grave, placed her body inside, and attempted to burn it. The resulting brush fire would eventually lead to the discovery of Holley’s remains.

The Arrest and Legal Resolution

With Alden’s confession and forensic evidence tying the crime scene back to Holley’s apartment, police arrested John Wimunc. His reaction was chilling—calm, composed, and resigned. He was charged with first-degree murder, arson, and conspiracy to commit arson.

Autopsy results confirmed Holley had died from a gunshot wound to the head. Her body had been dismembered, wrapped in an air mattress, and set ablaze. The murder weapon and missing kitchen knives were recovered at the burial site.

To avoid the death penalty, Wimunc pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and related charges. He received a life sentence without the possibility of parole. Kyle Alden also pleaded guilty to being an accessory after the fact and to arson. He was sentenced to five years but served only three before being released.

A Family Left to Grieve—and Raise Awareness

The emotional fallout from Holley’s death was profound. Her children, just three and six years old, were left without a mother. Friends and family carried deep grief, especially her father, Jesse James, who publicly mourned his inability to protect his daughter.

James later became a voice for domestic violence awareness, speaking about his daughter’s life and death in military circles and beyond. His quiet efforts brought attention to the vulnerability of women—even those in uniform—to intimate partner violence.

Holley’s friends also carried lasting memories and pain. Lt. April Wertz, a close coworker, was chosen to accompany Holley’s remains back to her hometown in Iowa. She recalled the heartbreak of watching Holley’s young son receive a folded American flag at her funeral—a moment seared into the memories of all who loved her.

The Military and Domestic Violence: A Lingering Conversation

Holley Wimunc’s murder raised serious questions about how domestic violence is addressed within military communities. Despite training, protocols, and command structures, her case revealed cracks in a system where rank and loyalty can discourage victims from speaking out or following through with legal protections.

The bond between Marines—highlighted by Alden’s blind loyalty—further complicated the case. Investigators and prosecutors noted how respect for the chain of command and rank may have influenced Alden’s decision to help cover up the crime.

As 20/20 documented with emotional clarity, You Took My Daughter was more than a story about a tragic murder. It was a harrowing case study in how abuse can escalate, how warning signs can be missed, and how justice, though served, can never fill the void left behind.

Conclusion

Holley Wimunc’s story is a reminder that domestic violence can reach even the most disciplined and structured environments. Her murder shook Fort Bragg, the military, and the nation. The 20/20 episode stands as a testament to her life and a call to action for prevention, accountability, and support—so that no other family has to hear the words, You Took My Daughter.

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Ryan Gill

Ryan is a passionate follower of true crime television programs, reporting on and providing in-depth investigations on mysteries in the criminal world.

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