The latest episode of Killer Relationship with Faith Jenkins, titled “Highway Horror,”explores the tragic death of 41-year-old Michele Davis, who died in a car crash on Interstate 235 in downtown Des Moines, Iowa, in September 2008.
Initially believed to be a straightforward vehicle accident, an autopsy revealed a more sinister truth—Michele had been shot before the crash. As investigators peeled back the layers of her life, they uncovered a hate crime, ultimately leading to the conviction of her estranged husband, Randy Davis.
Michele Davis was embarking on a new chapter of her life as her divorce from Randy Davis neared finalization. She had moved out of their shared home earlier that year and even had a restraining order against him. By all accounts, Michele was a lively and adventurous spirit, passionate about motorcycles. She was well-respected in her role as an administrator for a trucking company.
The police investigation into Michele’s death faced initial challenges, with no immediate evidence or leads. The theory of a random gunman on the interstate was considered and dismissed due to the absence of similar reports. A breakthrough came through surveillance camera footage, which revealed a red truck similar to the one owned by Randy Davis following Michele before the incident.
This led to Randy and his son, Josh Davis (Michele’s step-son), becoming suspects, particularly as Josh had firearms training. When questioned, Randy claimed he had gone straight home from work and stayed there with Josh, but he soon refused to cooperate further without legal representation.
Highway Horror airs Saturday, August 24, 2024, at 8:00 p.m. on Oxygen True Crime.