The Case That Created The Amber Alert

About this episode

This episode explores the abduction and murder of Amber Hagerman and the creation of the AMBER Alert system that followed.

In 1996, nine‑year‑old Amber Hagerman was abducted in broad daylight in Arlington, Texas. Her murder remains unsolved — but her name sparked a nationwide movement that has saved over a thousand children. In this episode, we explore Amber’s case, the creation of the AMBER Alert, what qualifies (and doesn’t qualify) for an alert, and the other alert systems that exist today. We also highlight a real case where an AMBER Alert saved a child’s life. This is the story of a tragedy that reshaped public safety — and the legacy of a little girl who deserved so much more. Topics Covered: The abduction and murder of Amber Hagerman The early investigation and systemic challenges How the AMBER Alert was created DOJ & NCMEC criteria for issuing an alert Why some cases don’t qualify Silver, Blue, Ashanti, Camo, and other alert systems A child saved by an AMBER Alert Where Amber’s case stands today Sources: See full list at the end of the episode. If you have information about Amber Hagerman’s case: Contact Arlington Police Department.

People in this episode

Hosts: Rachel, Krystal

Topics covered

• Amber Hagerman
• AMBER Alert
• child abduction
• public safety
• investigation challenges
• alert systems
• case legacy

Keywords

• Amber Hagerman
• AMBER Alert
• child safety
• abduction
• public safety
• investigation
• alert systems

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Arlington Police Department, DOJ, NCMEC

More episodes of Coworkers & Crime

• Unsolved: Brianna Maitland · June 10, 2026 · 14 min
• The Case of Mikelle Biggs · June 3, 2026 · 22 min
• Return to the Highway of Tears · May 27, 2026 · 22 min
• The History of: 911 · May 20, 2026 · 30 min
• Kouri Richins, Tony Carruthers, & Murdaugh Retrial · May 20, 2026 · 26 min
• The Unsolved Case of Evelyn Hernandez · May 14, 2026 · 21 min