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Homicide Hunter: The Man with No Face

January 13, 2026·1 hr 6 min·5 clips

The killer left Mary Lynn's body in the 'rape position' to humiliate her for the police to find.

This episode of True Crime Obsessed covers the documentary "Homicide Hunter: The Man with No Face," focusing on a 1988 Colorado Springs murder case. Hosts Patrick Hinds and Gillian Pensaville recap and react to the story as told by retired Lieutenant Joe Kenda. The hosts are known for their comedic and enthusiastic commentary on true crime media. The case involves the murder of 24-year-old Mary Lynn Villalpando, who was found sexually assaulted and beaten in a remote alleyway. Her husband, Bob Villalpando, discovered the scene after she failed to return home from a walk following a wedding. Investigators initially considered Bob a suspect due to his frantic arrival at the crime scene. Evidence included clumps of bleached, chemically treated hair ripped from the assailant during a struggle, placing the case in an era where DNA analysis was emerging. The investigation led to a man named Trenton Hayes, arrested for a DUI near the alley, who had bleached hair, scratches on his chest, and a bruised hand. A woman's stonewashed jean jacket and a sheathed knife were visible in his impounded truck. Despite the circumstantial evidence, DNA testing at the only available lab, Cellmark Diagnostics, excluded Hayes as the source of the crime scene DNA. Deputy DA Stephanie Redfield and District Attorney Dan May, who still becomes emotional discussing the case, are featured. A key witness, 12-year-old Cindy Hyatt, reported hearing a single startled scream from her apartment window around 3 a.m. but did not call police. The hosts note the preserved crime scene evidence proved crucial as DNA technology advanced. Mary Lynn is remembered by her sister Cynthia as an independent free spirit who loved Pink Floyd and was studying sports medicine. The hosts find irony in Joe Kenda's celebrity status, illustrated by a neighbor demanding an autograph before reporting a tragedy. They highlight the period-appropriate misogyny in Kenda's interaction with a female reporter, whom he called "honey." The detailed recreation of the alleyway crime scene, possibly filmed on location, impressed the hosts. The tone is conversational and comedic, with the hosts frequently interjecting personal anecdotes and humorous asides amidst the serious subject matter. Their style includes enthusiastic reactions and playful banter about the documentary's production and characters. True crime fans who enjoy comedic recap podcasts and discussions of vintage investigative techniques will appreciate this episode. Listeners who prefer a solemn, straightforward presentation of violent crimes might find the humorous tone inappropriate.

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