Back in January 1984, chaos gripped as a gripping crime spree unfolded, captivating the police force in a tense pursuit of one man with a hostage. The unfortunate climax led to the heartbreaking loss of a valiant soul, Harry Shryock. Netflix’s ‘I Am a Killer’ delves into this tragic event in its compelling episode named ‘A Bad Day’ from the third season.
Harry Shryock’s Fateful Demise
Harry Lee Shryock, a 64-year-old settled in Polson, Montana, alongside his wife, lived a life enriched with experiences from across the globe. Hailing from Ohio, his journey included a stint in the military, spanning three major wars – World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, before retiring at 51. Despite hanging up his military boots, he continued his passion for flying, occasionally taking to the skies from the Polson airport.
However, on that ill-fated day of January 11, 1984, Harry found himself embroiled in a harrowing hostage situation. Volunteering to stand in for a 13-year-old captive and piloting a potential getaway plane, Harry’s noble act turned tragic during the negotiations with the perpetrator. A fatal shot to the head abruptly ended his life, leaving a community mourning the loss of a hero.
Perpetrator Unveiled: David Lee Keith
The mastermind behind this distressing turn of events was none other than David Lee Keith, a seasoned criminal with a troubled past. Originating from Spokane, Washington, David’s upbringing lacked significant supervision despite his father’s affluent background. His life took a dark turn following drug use and delving into criminal endeavors, including burglary, which led to stints behind bars. By 1984, he found himself unemployed with a family in Montana.
On that fateful day, David’s actions in a Missoula pharmacy triggered a sequence of events that culminated in tragedy. His armed theft of prescription drugs and subsequent hostage-taking of young William Crose Jr. set the stage for a chilling confrontation with the authorities. The frantic chase, demands for a plane and a pilot, and the eventual standoff at Polson airport unraveled a gripping yet catastrophic saga.
The Heartbreaking Aftermath
As negotiations reached a critical point at the airport, David’s desperation peaked. While attempting to flee, technical issues hampered his plans, and law enforcement intervened by deflating the plane’s tires. Amidst the chaos, David, wounded from a sniper’s shot, made a devastating choice. In a chilling moment, he fatally shot Harry, rationalizing it as a decision made in his belief that his own demise was imminent.
Where is David Keith Now?
The legal aftermath saw David Keith facing severe charges, pleading guilty to multiple counts of assault, kidnapping, and deliberate homicide. Originally handed two death sentences and a staggering 146-year imprisonment, his fate saw a twist when the governor commuted the death penalty to life without parole. Despite his remorse and efforts to caution against drugs, David now resides in Crossroads Correctional Center in Shelby, Montana, serving a life sentence.
Conclusion
The tale of Harry Shryock’s tragic demise at the hands of David Keith remains etched in history as a testament to the complexities of human choices and the devastating consequences they can wield. The episode ‘A Bad Day’ in ‘I Am a Killer’ offers a haunting yet poignant insight into this fateful encounter that forever altered the lives of those involved.