For weeks, the search for Mollie Tibbetts consumed her small town, her face on posters, her name on everyone’s lips. And when investigators finally closed in on the man behind the wheel of the car seen circling Mollie on the night she vanished, justice for her family felt within reach.
But then, in a way no one could have predicted, the story changed. It took on a new form.
Because what unfolded next wasn’t the ending anyone had imagined. Instead, Mollie’s disappearance was thrust into the national spotlight, sweeping her family, her community, and even the country into a battle over who gets to tell her story and why.
In Part 1, we told you about the search to find Mollie. Today, we’re finishing this story with the town left to pick up the pieces and the aftermath no one saw coming.
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Please be aware that today’s episode contains references to violence and racist rhetoric, please take care while listening.
A full transcript of this episode is available here.
Mollie and her dad, Rob Tibbetts
“Laura puts things back on the bed in Mollie’s bedroom, where everything has been kept as it was. She still sits there, looking at the walls covered with photos. (Rachel Mummey/For The Washington Post).”
“Trump uses Mollie Tibbetts’ death to call for stricter immigration laws.”
“Cristhian Bahena Rivera (pictured) sat expressionless as the guilty verdict was read out at a courtroom in Scott County, Iowa.”
“Ulises Felix is pictured in an undated family photo. After Mollie was killed and his parents moved to Illinois, he went to live with her family. (Family photo).”
Action Items Related to Today’s Episode
I want to make sure we direct support to an organization doing vital work to support immigrant communities like the one in Brooklyn. Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice, or MMJ, is a statewide, immigrant-led organization that provides legal services and advocates for the rights of immigrants and refugees across Iowa. Their mission is to empower immigrant communities—not only by offering high-quality legal support but also by organizing for lasting, systemic change.
Their team brings decades of experience and a deep commitment to making Iowa a more inclusive and welcoming place for all. Whether it’s helping families navigate the immigration system or leading statewide efforts for policy change, MMJ is making a real impact.
You can donate to support their work, learn more, or get involved at www.iowammj.org.
