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Kara Robinson Chamberlain, once abducted by a serial killer at 15, is now searching for answers in decades-old unsolved cases. She hosts ‘Somebody Knows Something,’ a true-crime series from ABC News Studios and Freeform, which focuses on unsolved disappearances and murders. Each episode revisits a cold case, working closely with loved ones to bring attention to these unsolved mysteries, hoping to uncover new leads.
Kara Robinson Chamberlain, who survived being abducted, hosts the new true-crime series ‘Somebody Knows Something’ to shed light on cold cases. (ABC News Studios/Freeform)
‘My purpose was to allow families to share their stories and highlight law enforcement’s work,’ Chamberlain explained. ‘We aim to provide people with the necessary information to come forward with anything useful. Several cases involve children and young individuals. As a mother of three, I connect with the young missing individuals or the victims’ parents.’
Chamberlain continues, ‘I genuinely believe we can make a difference. Solving any case for these families would fulfill my life’s purpose.’
Kara Robinson Chamberlain’s story of survival began over 20 years ago when she was abducted by serial killer Richard Evonitz in 2002. While at her friend’s house in South Carolina, Evonitz approached her under the guise of distributing pamphlets. He then forcibly took her, threatening her with a gun, and confined her in his car.
‘I often get asked what lessons can be learned from my ordeal,’ Chamberlain reflected. ‘The key takeaway is listening to your intuition. A great resource on this is the book, “The Gift of Fear,” which describes trusting your instincts for survival.’
Following her escape, Chamberlain contacted law enforcement, providing vital information leading to the identification of Evonitz, linking him to three previously unsolved murders.
Evidence found in Evonitz’s apartment connected him to the murders of Sofia Silva, 16, and sisters Kristin, 15, and Kati Lisk, 12, in Spotsylvania County, Virginia.
Despite escaping captivity in his apartment and alerting the police, Evonitz eluded capture and took his life in Florida before facing justice. Chamberlain remains convinced there are undiscovered victims.
She said, ‘I strongly suspect he was responsible for more cases. However, with his death, that remains a mystery.’
Chamberlain’s unresolved questions shape her compassion for families still seeking answers. She wishes the new series can bring resolution and fresh leads to cold cases.
‘There’s a misconception about closure. Recovery often brings ongoing trauma. These families will never truly “move on” from the loss of loved ones,’ Chamberlain noted.
After her ordeal, Chamberlain built ties with law enforcement, becoming a school resource officer and child advocate before leaving to raise her children. Her experience assists in communicating effectively with affected families during her series.
‘The individuals in these stories are more than victims or missing persons,’ she emphasized, understanding the nuances families face. ‘It’s important to let them share their loved one’s story.’
‘Somebody Knows Something’ airs Mondays at 9 p.m. on Freeform and streams on Hulu.