Her Family Tracked Her Jeep With an AirTag and Uncovered a Crime

SEP 26, 202616 MIN

Description

In August 2026, 18 year old Karoline Heintz had dinner with her family before heading back to college. The freshman soccer player was studying at PennWest California with hopes of becoming a doctor. But when she suddenly stopped responding to calls and messages, her family began searching for her. An AirTag inside Karoline’s Jeep eventually helped her family locate the vehicle near a library. After they asked police to check on her, an officer approached the Jeep and discovered Karoline deceased inside. Investigators allege Karoline had stopped to see her boyfriend, 18 year old Royce Moser, before returning to campus. Police accuse Royce of killing Karoline following a conversation about their relationship. Prosecutors further allege that his mother, Rachel Moser, later helped clean the vehicle and dispose of evidence before the Jeep was abandoned. At a preliminary hearing, prosecutors presented surveillance footage, cellphone records and other evidence they say helped reconstruct the events of that night. Investigators also reported recovering deleted communications and internet searches they believe are relevant to the alleged attempt to conceal evidence. Royce faces criminal homicide and related charges, while Rachel faces charges including evidence tampering and hindering apprehension. The case has not gone to trial. Neither defendant has been convicted, and both are presumed innocent unless proven guilty. Follow True Crime Recaps for weekly cases examining real investigations and the justice system. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices