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Stepfather Acquitted in Teen's 2001 Disappearance
17 May
Summary
- Alissa vanished May 17, 2001, leaving personal items behind.
- Stepfather Michael Turney arrested in 2020, later acquitted.
- Alissa's body has never been recovered as of May 2026.
Seventeen-year-old Alissa Turney vanished on May 17, 2001, the final day of her junior year in Phoenix, Arizona. Despite a note indicating she was headed to California, she left behind her cell phone, car, and substantial savings. Her family eventually suspected foul play, focusing on her stepfather, Michael Turney.
Following a campaign by Alissa's sister, Sarah Turney, Michael was arrested in August 2020, charged with second-degree felony murder. The investigation had been reopened in 2008, years after an initial false confession from a serial killer briefly reignited interest.
During the 2023 trial, the defense argued there was no physical evidence of Alissa's death or Michael's involvement. The judge agreed, acquitting Michael of all charges due to insufficient evidence, and he was released in July 2023.
As of May 2026, Alissa's body has never been recovered. Michael Turney maintains his innocence, has launched his own online platforms to clear his name, and has filed a lawsuit alleging wrongful imprisonment. Sarah continues to seek justice for her sister.
