Update on Sarah Turney: Insights into Alissa Turney’s Sister Featured in Oxygen’s Family Secrets

The narrative surrounding Sarah Turney was highlighted in the Oxygen True Crime episode titled “Family Secrets: The Disappearance of Alissa Turney,”which aired on October 13 at 8 p.m. ET. This episode explored the mysterious disappearance of Alissa Turney in 2001 from Phoenix, Arizona, as her sister, Sarah, searched for answers.

Initially convinced that her sister had simply run away, Sarah’s perspective shifted dramatically with the emergence of new evidence that suggested the possibility of foul play. The documentary includes personal home videos and interviews that provide insight into the Turney family’s relationships and Sarah’s determined quest for the truth.

In her pursuit of justice, Sarah created the podcast “Voices for Justice,”which began by focusing on Alissa’s case and has since broadened its scope to include other unsolved mysteries. Currently residing in Phoenix, Arizona, Sarah Turney is a dedicated advocate for the victims of unresolved crimes, using her influence to highlight the unresolved disappearance of Alissa Turney.

In 2020, a pivotal moment occurred thanks to Sarah’s tireless social media efforts; her father, Michael Turney, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder related to Alissa’s case, although he was ultimately acquitted due to a lack of sufficient evidence.

What transpired with Sarah Turney’s sister, Alissa Turney?

On May 17, 2001, Alissa Turney disappeared from her residence in Phoenix, Arizona, marking the end of her junior year at Paradise Valley High School. As detailed in the episode, her stepfather, Michael Turney, stated that after collecting her from school and having lunch, he brought Alissa back home around 1 p.m.

He subsequently reported her as a runaway to the police, claiming she had left a note stating her intention to go to California. For many years, authorities maintained that Alissa had run away, as highlighted in the episode. However, her bank accounts remained dormant, and her personal items, including her cell phone and makeup, were left behind.

By 2008, the Phoenix Police Department took a renewed interest in the case, suggesting that potential foul play could have been involved. This change followed conversations with various individuals who knew Alissa and indicated that her disappearance was suspicious in nature.

In an investigation of Michael Turney’s residence, police discovered a collection of weapons, explosive devices, and a 98-page manifesto revealing his intent to attack a local union. He was later incarcerated on unrelated weapons charges.

Determined to bring awareness to her sister’s case, Sarah Turney initiated a viral social media campaign, particularly gaining traction on TikTok, which drew significant public and media focus on the case.

The program reveals that in 2020, in light of the circumstantial evidence and heightened visibility from Sarah’s campaign, Michael Turney faced arrest and was charged with second-degree murder concerning Alissa’s disappearance.

However, the trial concluded in 2023 without securing a conviction; Michael Turney was acquitted due to a lack of evidence, as reported by NBC News on July 21, 2023. As of 2024, Alissa’s whereabouts remain unknown, leaving the question of what happened to her largely unresolved.

Amidst these challenges, Sarah Turney continues to champion the causes of her sister and other unresolved cases, diligently using her platform to maintain public engagement and foster hope for future answers.

“Family Secrets: The Disappearance of Alissa Turney”premiered on Sunday, October 13, at 8 p.m. ET on Oxygen.

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