Member-only story
Never Talk to Strangers: The Murder of Thirteen-Year-Old Kacie Woody
The All-American Girl
Kacie Woody was much like any other girl her age: bright, bubbly and eager to make new friends. Unfortunately, it would be these very qualities that would allow a predator to gain her trust, leading to a horrifying conclusion.
Kacie was born on October 17, 1989, in Little Rock, Arkansas to Rick and Kristie Woody. With two older brothers and parents who loved her beyond words, she was somewhat sheltered from the harsh realities of life.
That would change in 1996 when Kacie’s mother was killed in an automobile accident. At the tender age of seven, the little girl had faced a hardship that would stagger even the most world-weary adult. Even so, she made it through, heartbroken, but stronger than before.
New Beginnings
Following the tragedy, the family moved to the Little Rock suburb of Holland, a rural area a bit off the beaten track where they shared a home with Eric Betts, a longtime friend. Though the location was isolated, Kacie’s Aunt Teresa lived just up the road, so they had someone nearby in case they needed anything.
