“Cati Blauvelt: Death of a Soldier’s Wife”: 48 Hours Reports March 8 2025

On Saturday, March 8, 2025, 48 Hours will air “Cati Blauvelt: Death of a Soldier’s Wife,” an in-depth investigation into the tragic murder of 22-year-old Cati Blauvelt. The episode, hosted by correspondent Peter Van Sant, will explore the events leading up to her death, the role of her estranged husband John Blauvelt, and the years-long manhunt that followed.

Cati’s murder in 2016 shocked the community of Simpsonville, South Carolina. Found in the basement of an abandoned house, she had been brutally stabbed, setting off an intense investigation. The case quickly pointed to her estranged husband, a former U.S. Army recruiter, but his disappearance complicated efforts to bring him to justice. 48 Hours features interviews with law enforcement officials and those closest to Cati, shedding light on a harrowing case of domestic violence, betrayal, and pursuit of justice.

A Troubled Marriage and a Deadly Encounter

Cati and John Blauvelt had a tumultuous relationship. Their marriage was marked by allegations of domestic abuse, with Cati reportedly living in fear before ultimately separating from John. Despite her attempts to move on, her estranged husband remained a looming presence in her life.

On October 24, 2016, Cati left work at a Greenville pet store but never made it to meet her friends as planned. When she was reported missing, authorities launched an immediate search. The following day, her body was discovered in the basement of an abandoned home in Simpsonville. Investigators determined she had been stabbed multiple times, suggesting a violent and personal attack. Suspicion quickly turned to John Blauvelt, who had fled the state just before police issued an arrest warrant.

A Fugitive on the Run

John Blauvelt did not act alone in his disappearance. Authorities learned that he had left South Carolina with 17-year-old Hannah Thompson, a teenager who had become entangled with him as his marriage unraveled. Their disappearance set off a nationwide search, with U.S. Marshals classifying Blauvelt as armed and dangerous.

Thompson was reported missing by her parents on November 21, 2016, intensifying the urgency of the search. Weeks later, she surfaced in Oregon, where she had been abandoned. After contacting a family friend, Thompson was safely returned to her family. Meanwhile, Blauvelt continued to evade capture, living under the radar for nearly six years.

The Arrest and Trial

In July 2022, law enforcement finally tracked Blauvelt to Oregon, where he was arrested and extradited to South Carolina. His trial began in 2024, with prosecutors presenting a compelling case built on witness testimony, forensic evidence, and journal entries in which Blauvelt allegedly admitted to the murder.

During the trial, investigators detailed the violent nature of Cati’s death. Forensic specialists testified about DNA evidence, while police officers revealed details of Blauvelt’s erratic behavior before his flight. The prosecution argued that Blauvelt had killed his wife to eliminate her as an obstacle to his relationship with Thompson. The defense attempted to challenge the evidence, but the weight of the prosecution’s case ultimately proved overwhelming.

A Verdict and a Life Sentence

On September 20, 2024, a jury found John Blauvelt guilty of murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. He was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

During the sentencing hearing, Cati’s family spoke about the devastating loss and their years of uncertainty as they waited for justice. Her mother, Patricia Piver, expressed relief that Blauvelt had finally been held accountable. The emotional statements from family members highlighted the lasting impact of Cati’s murder.

Blauvelt’s legal team filed an appeal in February 2025, arguing that certain evidence should have been excluded from trial. However, legal experts believe the overwhelming nature of the prosecution’s case makes it unlikely that his conviction will be overturned.

The Legacy of a Tragic Case

Cati Blauvelt’s murder is a painful reminder of the dangers of domestic violence. Her case highlights the importance of recognizing warning signs and ensuring that survivors have access to protective resources.

As 48 Hours revisits the case, viewers will gain deeper insight into the investigative process, the emotional toll on those left behind, and the determination of law enforcement to bring a fugitive to justice. The episode promises a compelling and thorough look at a case that left a lasting impact on the Simpsonville community.