Bakersfield 3: A Search for Truth and Justice
The heartbreaking story of the "Bakersfield 3" centers around three friends—Baylee Despot, Micah Holsonbake, and James Kulstad—who vanished or were killed within just one month in the spring of 2018. Their cases have become a focal point for not only their grieving families but also for the community in Bakersfield, California.
The mothers of these friends—Jane Parrent, Cheryl Holsonbake, and Diane “Di” Byrne—have taken it upon themselves to dig deeper into the circumstances surrounding their children. Sharing leads and information, they discovered ties between the cases that fueled their quest for answers.
This tragic saga is further explored in the 2023 podcast "The Bakersfield Three," which highlights recent developments in their investigation. The Investigation Discovery docuseries "The Bakersfield 3: A Tale of Murder and Motherhood," released in May, outlines the personal stories of these families, shedding light on the struggles and complexities that surround these mysteries.
Who Are the Bakersfield 3?
The Bakersfield 3 consists of:
- Baylee Despot, 20, missing since April 24, 2018
- Micah Holsonbake, 34, last seen on March 23, 2018; his remains have been found
- James Kulstad, 38, tragically shot in April 2018
James, a surfer and inventor, faced challenges after a car accident that led to addiction. Micah, a veteran, lost his job and began making guns as an extra income source after his own struggles with addiction. Baylee got married shortly after high school but faced personal difficulties, including a serious car accident and mental health issues.
Recent Developments
In May 2020, both Baylee and her then-boyfriend Matthew Queen were charged with multiple crimes, including the murder and torture of Micah. Queen was convicted in 2022 of second-degree murder and sentenced to 30 years to life in prison.
The investigations into Baylee and Micah’s disappearances have revealed an unsettling pattern. Baylee’s belongings appeared shortly after she went missing, alongside suspicious notes that connected her to Queen. Unfortunately, no clear evidence has confirmed her fate.
The Mothers’ Fight for Justice
After their children’s cases garnered little attention, the mothers banded together. Frustrated with law enforcement’s response, they started their own investigations, sharing leads and fundraising for search efforts. Their calls for accountability reflect not just a personal battle, but a broader appeal for justice in missing persons cases.
Where Are They Now?
Today, Jane and Cheryl remain dedicated to raising awareness for their children and others in similar situations. In April 2019, they founded the Bakersfield 3 Charity, aimed at helping families with missing loved ones.
Sadly, Diane passed away in April 2024, leaving behind a legacy of hope and perseverance. Jane currently keeps the community updated on the search for Baylee through social media, marking significant anniversaries with heartfelt messages.
The journey is far from over, as the search for answers and justice continues for the families of the Bakersfield 3.
