True Murder: The Most Shocking Killers in True Crime History IN PUBLIC RECORD—Michael Kelly
Feb 2, 2026
Michael Kelly, a former police officer turned author, reopens the 1990 Lisa Pruitt murder. He recounts finding overlooked evidence, a rare Chuck Taylor shoe lead, missing photos, and questions about investigative choices and possible cover-ups. Multiple short scenes explore the timeline, key people, and why Kelly believes outside review and transparency are needed.
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Chance Discovery Sparked Deep Dive
- Michael Kelly discovered the Lisa Pruitt case after stumbling into a James Renner presentation at his local library decades later.
- That chance encounter prompted Kelly to read Renner's Little Crazy Children and begin his own investigation.
Small Manufacturing Detail Became Key
- A rare manufacturing detail in a common shoe model became the potential key to the case.
- Michael Kelly realized an unusual extra heel and herringbone pattern on 1980s Chuck Taylors could match a blood footwear impression.
Media Coverage Devastated Kevin Young
- After the acquittal, media stories pushed Kevin Young into a suicide attempt and lifelong decline.
- Kelly recounts that the coverage led Young to be talked off a highway overpass and ultimately struggle with substance abuse until his death.
