A new documentary series titled “The Bakersfield 3” will delve into the unsettling events surrounding three young adults—James Kulstad, Micah Holsonbake, and Baylee Despot—who were either murdered or went missing within a month of each other in California’s Bakersfield during the spring of 2018.
The series highlights the tragic timeline: Micah was reported missing on April 4, James was fatally shot just four days later on April 8, and Baylee was reported missing shortly after on April 25. Initially perceived as isolated incidents, a deeper investigation led by the victims’ mothers uncovered connections that suggested the cases might be intertwined.
The mothers—Cheryl, Di, and Jane—joined forces to uncover the truth surrounding their children’s fates. Throughout their investigation, they encountered a complex web of clues and dead ends that only intensified their quest for answers.
Details are strange but significant: Micah Holsonbake’s life had spiraled out of control before his disappearance, leading to his involvement with a man named Matt Queen, who had been a friend and associate. Micah’s struggles with addiction complicate the narrative, alongside reports of erratic behavior. Baylee Despot, who was in a relationship with Queen, made her last contact with her mother the night before her disappearance, heightening concerns regarding her safety.
James Kulstad, who had connections with both Micah and Baylee, was murdered in a shooting incident while driving. His mother, Di, believed that his death was linked to the other two cases, believing he was in the wrong place at the wrong time.
The investigation took a dark turn when Holsonbake’s severed arm was discovered in the Kern River in August 2018, followed by the skull found in 2021, revealing he had been tortured and killed. Queen was subsequently sentenced to 30 years to life in prison, while Despot remains missing, with officials suspecting her involvement in Holsonbake’s death.
As the mothers seek justice, the documentary will not only document their journey but also focus on the impact of the tragedies on the community. Di’s concerns over her son’s unresolved murder and the potential threat to others are particularly poignant, underscoring the need for continued advocacy and awareness regarding such cases.
“The Bakersfield 3” is set to premiere on May 11, and seeks to shed light on the mystery and heartache surrounding this chilling set of events, aiming to foster understanding and potentially bring some closure to the families involved. The story reflects resilience, as these mothers unite in the face of loss, demonstrating the power of determination and community support in a time of need.