Episode 9: The Trucker
In 1979, a Virginia trucker named Harry Joe Turner set out on a routine delivery. But a run-in with an apparent UFO led to a number of unforeseen complications.
EPISODE INTEL:
In this investigation, we examine the August 1979 disappearance of Harry Joe Turner, a 28-year-old long-haul trucker from Winchester, Virginia. While hauling a load of condiments toward Fredericksburg on US-17, Turner reported an encounter that supposedly warped both time and space, leaving behind physical evidence that baffled local investigators.
Subjects of Investigation:
The US-17 Discrepancy: We analyze the 114-gallon fuel consumption and the "missing" four hours of time, contrasted with a truck odometer that registered only 17 miles of travel.
The "Bionic" Physiological Effects: An examination of Turner’s reported symptoms following the event, including localized super-strength, extreme sensory sensitivity, and a ruptured blood vessel.
The MUFON Evaluation: We review the 1979 field report by Fred Whiting, which includes character testimony from terminal managers, mechanics, and family members.
The Identical Witnesses: A look at the corroborating reports from residents in nearby towns who described a silent, low-flying craft zipping toward Fredericksburg just days before Turner’s encounter.
The UFO-Stamped Archive: The strange story of the "erased" news records in the Winchester archives and the difficulty of tracking down the original reporting from George Stoddart.
Thanks to Steven Ray Morris of Purrrcast/See Jurassic Right!, Alvin Williams of Affirmative Murder/Down by the Creek, A Concerned Citizen of Swindled, Bradley George of WUSF, and Emma Currie for lending their voices to this episode.
Written, researched, and hosted by Laurah Norton
Produced, scored, and edited by Maura Currie
Additional Research by Jessica Ann
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Works Cited
George M. Stoddart, “My God, I Can’t. . .” The Winchester Evening Star, 1979.
Bill McKelway, “Trucker Says Journey. . .” Richmond Times-Dispatch, 1979.
Fred Whiting, “The Abduction Of. . .” THE MUFON UFO JOURNAL, No. 145, March 1980.
Jim Miles, “The Most Terrifying. . . “ UFO UPDATE! Number 11, Summer 1981.
George M. Stoddart, “Clearbrook Residents. . .” The Winchest Evening Star, 1979.
Bill McKelway, “Trucker Taken By. . .” Richmond Times-Dispatch, 1979.