Episode 49: WTAF… A Catfishing Like No Other – The Cyber-Harassment of Lauryn Licari (pt. 1)
In Episode 49 of Super SUS, we explore the shocking and deeply unsettling true story of relentless cyber harassment faced by a teenage girl in the small, tight-knit community of Beal City, Michigan. This incident isn’t fiction—it’s a real case that has stunned many, and it’s now been featured in Netflix’s documentary Unknown Number: The High School Catfish.
Small Town, Big Impact
Beal City is an unincorporated community and census-designated place in Isabella County, Michigan, with a population of just 332 at the 2020 census. A place where “everyone knows everyone” suddenly became the backdrop for a disturbing mystery that would rock the community.
The Cyberbullying Begins
In October 2020, 13-year-old Lauryn Licari and her boyfriend Owen McKenny began receiving disturbing and anonymous text messages from a blocked number. At first, the messages seemed like a cruel prank, but they quickly escalated into a barrage of 40 to 50 texts per day. These weren’t just mean notes—they were lewd, sexually explicit, vile, harassing, and even violent.
The messages paused briefly but resumed in September 2021, growing increasingly abusive. Both Lauryn and Owen were targeted with threats, sexual advances, and degrading language that left them—and the community—desperate for answers.
A Community in Turmoil
Despite efforts from school officials, law enforcement, and even the FBI, the stalker remained hidden. In a town as small as Beal City, suspicion began to swirl. Could it be a jealous classmate? A stranger with too much time on their hands? Or someone closer than anyone dared to imagine?
What’s Next on the Podcast
In Part One, we trace the rise of the harassment, the mounting fear, and the investigative dead ends that left Lauryn and Owen feeling trapped. And just when you think you’ve got it figured out, Ande leaves us on a cliffhanger as we head into our milestone 50th episode.
Stay Tuned for Part Two
Next week, we’ll reveal who was really behind the harassment—and trust us, it’s a twist that will leave your jaw on the floor.
