The Ones Left Behind: The Disappearances of Michael and Chucky Palmer

In 1999, fifteen-year-old Michael Palmer disappeared after leaving a graduation party and riding his bike home in Wasilla. His bicycle was later found in the Little Susitna River. His shoes were discovered nearby. Michael himself was never found. For eleven years, his family lived with unanswered questions. Then, in 2010, history repeated itself. Michael’s brother, Charles “Chucky” Palmer Jr., vanished while snowmachining in the backcountry of the Talkeetna Mountains. His snow machine was located twelve miles from the cabin where his group had been staying. There were no footprints. No helmet. No trace of where he went. Despite extensive searches, Chucky was never found and was later declared legally dead. In this episode of Serial Napper, we examine both disappearances side by side. One that unfolded in town, surrounded by rumours, conflicting stories, and evidence that never quite lined up. And one that disappeared into snow, weather, and terrain that rarely gives answers back. Was Chucky’s disappearance a tragic accident in the Alaskan wilderness? And if so… why does Michael’s case still refuse to make sense? This is a story about missing persons, unresolved investigations, and what happens when families are left without closure. Not just once, but twice. Support Our Sponser: Go to HelloFresh.com/napper10fm to get 10 free meals plus a FREE Zwilling knife valued at $144.99 on your third box. Offer valid while supplies last. Free meals applied as a discount on your first box. New subscribers only. Varies by plan. Sources: https://www.adn.com/alaska-news/article/last-brother/2010/04/16/ https://charleyproject.org/case/michael-timothy-palmer https://charleyproject.org/case/charles-edwin-palmer-v https://www.frontiersman.com/news/youth-still-missing-after-seven-years/article_4778a9bd-9231-5e38-bf8a-d2aa21a7fba1.html Follow me here: ► YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@SerialNapper/ ► Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/serialnappernik/ ► Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SerialNapper/ ► TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@serialnappernik *Go Ad-Free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SerialNapper * Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices