While thousands of people lined up for the grand opening of Arizona’s first Buc-ee’s, I traveled across the country for a different reason.
For months, Rebecca Beard’s family has been searching for answers in a case that remains one of the most talked-about unsolved mysteries along the Texas Gulf Coast. As part of my ongoing investigation, I wanted to ask Buc-ee’s founder Arch Aplin about his connection to Rebecca Beard and references to him in historical police records.
The challenge? Arch Aplin rarely gives interviews outside of Buc-ee’s business matters, and he has never publicly addressed Rebecca Beard on camera.
So I went to Arizona.
A Crowd Waiting For Buc-ee’s
Long before the doors opened, thousands of fans were already lined up outside the massive new Buc-ee’s location. Some had traveled hours for the grand opening.
Most reporters were focused on the store, the crowds, and the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
I was focused on a question that dates back nearly four decades.
Finally Getting The Chance To Ask
After waiting through the event and multiple appearances, I finally had the opportunity to ask Arch Aplin about Rebecca Beard.
At first, he appeared unable to hear my question over the noise and activity surrounding the grand opening. After repeating the question, he stopped and responded.
His answer was brief.
“It’s just a sad thing. I don’t know what to even say. My heart goes out to them.”
The comment marks one of the few known public responses from Aplin regarding Rebecca Beard and her family.
Why The Question Matters
Rebecca Beard disappeared in 1986. Decades later, questions continue to surround the circumstances of her death and what may have happened to her remains.
Members of Beard’s family have publicly stated they still want answers. In recent interviews with me, family members raised questions about individuals named in historical police records and expressed a desire to hear from people connected to the case.
That is why I asked the question.
The Response Is Now Public
Whether viewers believe the response answered anything or not, the moment is now part of the public record.
As a journalist, my job is not to decide what people should think. My job is to ask questions and let viewers hear the answers for themselves.
Watch the full video interview below and decide for yourself.
Read my exclusive interview with Rebecca Beard’s daughter Brittany Pipkin
Read Part 2: No Body, No Weapon, Sealed Documents
Interested in true crime and cold cases?
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