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The tragic case of Blaze Bernstein, a 19-year-old Ivy League student who disappeared in January 2018, has captivated and horrified the nation. This article examines the events surrounding his disappearance, the following investigation, and the implications of his tragic murder.
Jan. 2, 2018
Blaze Bernstein was visiting family in Orange County, California, during the winter holidays when he was reported missing on the night of January 2, 2018.
Jan. 3, 2018
After Blaze missed a dental appointment and failed to answer his phone, his parents, Jeanne Pepper and Gideon Bernstein, grew concerned. They searched his room and discovered that his wallet, keys, and glasses were still at home, raising further alarm.
In an effort to locate their son, they examined Blaze’s social media, where they found messages exchanged with Sam Woodward, a former high school classmate. The messages indicated that Blaze had shared his address with Woodward the night he vanished. Upon contacting Woodward, he claimed to have picked up Blaze and taken him to nearby Borrego Park, asserting that Blaze walked away to meet another friend.
“I didn’t see where he went,” Woodward stated. “I searched all over for him … I couldn’t find him anywhere.”
This prompted the Bernstein family to officially report Blaze as missing to law enforcement.
Jan. 6, 2018
As the search intensified, law enforcement continued their efforts in Borrego Park. The news of Blaze’s disappearance rapidly spread throughout Orange County. Hoping for positive outcomes, the family held a press conference, urging the public to assist in the search for their son.
Jan. 9, 2018
After several days of searching, authorities uncovered Blaze’s body in a shallow grave in Borrego Park, assisted by heavy rainfall that had exposed the site. An autopsy revealed that he had endured more than 20 stab wounds. Investigators also found Blaze’s damaged mobile phone buried alongside him.
Sam Woodward emerged as a primary suspect, being the last known individual to interact with Blaze before his disappearance. Authorities executed a search warrant at Woodward’s residence shortly thereafter.
Jan. 12, 2018
Sam Woodward was arrested in connection with Blaze Bernstein’s murder.
Jan. 17, 2018
Woodward faced formal murder charges, including a sentencing enhancement due to his alleged use of a knife during the crime. Later that year, Tony Rackauckas, then the Orange County District Attorney, revealed that a knife found at Woodward’s residence tested positive for Blaze’s blood.
Additional blood evidence was retrieved from Woodward’s vehicle, further implicating him in the murder.
Feb. 2, 2018
Woodward entered a not guilty plea during his arraignment.
Aug. 2, 2018
The District Attorney’s Office introduced a hate crime enhancement to Woodward’s initial charges, arguing that the murder was premeditated and motivated by Blaze’s sexual orientation. After examining Woodward’s digital footprint, investigators linked him to Atomwaffen, a neo-Nazi group known for its extreme beliefs.
April 9, 2024
During Woodward’s trial, the prosecution outlined their argument that Blaze’s murder was inherently linked to his being gay. The defense, however, conceded that Woodward was responsible for the killing but claimed it was not premeditated, suggesting that Blaze provoked Woodward, leading to a tragic confrontation.
April 10, 2024
Family members, including Blaze’s parents, took to the stand as witnesses, emphasizing their dedication to defending Blaze’s character. Jeanne Pepper expressed the pain of enduring a criminal trial, declaring her commitment to ensure the truth about her son’s life was brought to light.
June 20, 2024
On the stand, Woodward claimed he acted out of provocation after Blaze allegedly threatened to expose his sexual identity. He admitted to carrying a knife, a habit that stemmed from his childhood as a Boy Scout.
July 3, 2024
The jury ultimately found Woodward guilty of first-degree murder with a hate crime enhancement. Following the verdict, officials announced that he would face life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
Oct. 22, 2024
Sam Woodward is scheduled to appear in court for sentencing.
Blaze’s Legacy
In the aftermath of their son’s death, Blaze’s parents transformed their grief into a movement called “Blaze It Forward,” dedicated to promoting kindness and countering hate. A memorial now exists at Borrego Park, where stones and tributes are left in honor of Blaze Bernstein, reflecting the impact he continues to have on individuals across the globe.
Source
www.cbsnews.com