Podcast Explores the Case of Warren Forest, a Convicted Murderer
A new true crime podcast aims to shed light on the chilling case of Warren Forest, a man long suspected of multiple murders in Washington since the 1970s. The podcast, titled “The Stolen Voice of Doll Valley,” is hosted by Carolyn Ossorio. It delves into the stories of survivors and investigators, featuring insights from victims’ families, including one particular survivor, Norma Countryman.
Warren Forest, who has been incarcerated since 1974, was convicted for the murders of several young women. His lengthy criminal history includes the killings of Christab Lake in 1978 and Martha Morrison in 1974. Authorities are revisiting other cold cases linked to him, including the homicide of Carol Valenzuela, whose remains were discovered close to Morrison’s location.
Ossorio notes, “Warren Forest went unnoticed for years. The families of victims seek justice; they want to calculate the impact of his actions.” The series invites listeners to understand the pain these families endure as they continue searching for answers.
The terrifying encounter for Countryman began on a hot July day back in 1974 when she was 15. Looking for a way out of an abusive home, she found herself near a road when Forest, driving a blue van, offered her a ride. Despite her initial hesitation—advice from her mother ringing in her ears—she accepted. That choice would haunt her forever.
Once inside, the situation escalated quickly. Forest drove her to a secluded spot, brandishing a knife while threatening her life. Countryman managed to escape after being tied up, gnawing through the ropes when she thought he might return. The next morning, she was discovered by a park employee.
Countryman later reflected, “I thought, if he finds me, I won’t survive.” This brush with death left lasting scars on her life. It wasn’t until she survived this ordeal that the full scope of its impact became visible—both for her and the families of other victims. On the podcast, Ossorio remarks on the trauma experienced by Countryman, noting she received no formal support after the attack.
The podcast also highlights Forest’s manipulative persona, detailing how he presented himself as a victim of circumstances, particularly his military service. However, countless victims and their families would argue otherwise.
The investigations into Forest’s crimes have reignited with new technologies, allowing authorities to revisit the evidence from various cold cases. Ossorio has been in touch with retired investigator Paul Holes, who spent years on the “Golden State Killer” case. She’s hopeful for fresh perspectives on the complexities surrounding Forest’s actions.
Overall, this podcast serves a dual purpose—it seeks justice for the victims while also providing a form of community for those still grappling with their pain, showcasing their resilience and stubborn hope in the quest for answers.
The Clark County Sheriff’s Office urges anyone with information about these cases to reach out to their Cold Case Tip Line. Listening to these stories may bring sadness, but as Ossorio states, they also inspire through the determination of those who refuse to give up.
