35 Facts About Diane Downs

Who is Diane Downs?

Diane Downs is a name that has been etched into the annals of true crime history. Her story is both tragic and chilling, capturing the attention of millions. Here are some intriguing facts about her life and the infamous case that surrounds her.

1. Diane Downs was born on August 7, 1955, in Phoenix, Arizona. Her full name is Elizabeth Diane Frederickson Downs.

2. She attended Moon Valley High School in Phoenix, where she met her future husband, Steve Downs.

3. Diane and Steve married in 1973, but their relationship was tumultuous and ended in divorce in 1980.

The Crime That Shocked the Nation

Diane Downs became infamous for a crime that shocked the nation. Her actions on a fateful night in 1983 left an indelible mark on American criminal history.

4. On May 19, 1983, Diane Downs shot her three children, Cheryl, Christie, and Danny, in her car.

5. She then drove to the hospital, claiming a stranger had attempted to carjack her and shot her children.

6. Cheryl, the eldest daughter, died from her injuries. Christie and Danny survived but were severely wounded.

The Investigation and Trial

The investigation into the shooting quickly turned suspicious, leading to a high-profile trial that captivated the public.

7. Investigators found inconsistencies in Diane's story and began to suspect her involvement in the crime.

8. Christie Downs, despite her severe injuries, testified against her mother, stating that Diane was the one who shot them.

9. Diane was arrested on February 28, 1984, and charged with murder, attempted murder, and criminal assault.

10. The trial began in May 1984, and Diane's behavior in court raised eyebrows. She appeared unemotional and even smiled at times.

11. On June 17, 1984, Diane Downs was found guilty on all charges and sentenced to life in prison plus fifty years.

Life in Prison

Diane Downs has spent decades behind bars, but her story didn't end with her conviction.

12. She was initially incarcerated at the Oregon Women's Correctional Center.

13. In 1987, Diane escaped from prison but was recaptured just ten days later.

14. After her escape, she was transferred to a higher-security facility in New Jersey.

15. Diane has been denied parole multiple times, most recently in 2021.

The Impact on Her Children

The crime had a profound impact on Diane's surviving children, Christie and Danny.

16. Christie suffered a stroke as a result of her injuries but eventually recovered and went on to lead a relatively normal life.

17. Danny was left paralyzed from the waist down but has shown remarkable resilience and determination.

18. Both children were adopted by the lead prosecutor in the case, Fred Hugi, and his wife.

Media and Public Fascination

Diane Downs' case has been the subject of numerous books, documentaries, and even a movie.

19. Ann Rule, a famous true crime author, wrote a book about the case titled "Small Sacrifices," which became a bestseller.

20. In 1989, a TV movie based on Rule's book was released, starring Farrah Fawcett as Diane Downs.

21. The case has been featured on various true crime shows, including "20/20" and "Dateline."

Psychological Profile

Diane Downs' psychological state has been a topic of much debate and analysis.

22. Psychologists have diagnosed her with narcissistic, histrionic, and antisocial personality disorders.

23. Her lack of remorse and emotional detachment during the trial suggested a possible psychopathic personality.

24. Diane has consistently maintained her innocence, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary.

The Aftermath and Legacy

The legacy of Diane Downs' crime continues to be felt, both in the legal system and in popular culture.

25. The case led to changes in how child abuse and domestic violence cases are handled by law enforcement.

26. Diane's story has been used in criminal psychology courses to study the behavior of female offenders.

27. The case remains one of the most infamous examples of maternal filicide in American history.

Lesser-Known Facts

There are some lesser-known but equally fascinating facts about Diane Downs and her case.

28. Diane was pregnant during her trial and gave birth to a daughter, Amy, while in prison. Amy was later adopted and renamed Rebecca.

29. Diane's father, Wesley Frederickson, publicly supported her innocence throughout the trial.

30. Diane wrote a book while in prison titled "Best Kept Secrets," in which she continued to proclaim her innocence.

31. Despite her conviction, Diane has a small group of supporters who believe she was wrongfully accused.

32. Diane's case has inspired numerous podcasts, further cementing her place in true crime lore.

33. The bullet casings found at the crime scene matched a .22 caliber pistol owned by Diane, which was a crucial piece of evidence in her conviction.

34. Diane's escape from prison involved scaling a 12-foot fence and running through a field before being captured.

35. Diane Downs remains a controversial figure, with her case continuing to spark debate and intrigue among true crime enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts on Diane Downs

Diane Downs' story is both shocking and tragic. Her actions left a lasting impact on her family and the community. The case brought to light the darker side of human nature, showing how someone could commit such heinous acts. Downs' trial and conviction were widely covered, making her a notorious figure. Her children, who survived the ordeal, had to rebuild their lives, facing immense challenges. Downs remains in prison, serving a life sentence. Her case continues to be a topic of discussion, reflecting on the complexities of human behavior and justice. Understanding her story reminds us of the importance of vigilance and the need for a strong support system for victims. Downs' actions serve as a grim reminder of the potential for evil within individuals, urging society to remain aware and protective of the vulnerable.