In the early hours of October 15, 2018, the tranquility of Barron, Wisconsin, shatters. Jake Thomas Patterson, armed with a shotgun, storms the Closs home. James and Denise Closs are fatally shot, leaving their 13-year-old daughter, Jayme, forcibly taken. Patterson drives her to a cabin in Gordon, Wisconsin, marking the beginning of an 88-day ordeal.
Jayme Lynn Closs, born in 2005, is the cherished only child of James and Denise. On that fateful October night, Patterson’s determination to abduct her reaches a violent climax. After two prior attempts thwarted by activity in the home, Patterson returns with grim resolve, his intentions cloaked beneath a ski mask. As he forces his way into the house, Jayme’s world collapses amidst gunfire and chaos.
As the days stretch into weeks, Jayme endures captivity under threat and isolation. Patterson hides her beneath his bed, barricading her within a makeshift prison. The fear is relentless; Patterson’s father visits on weekends, and Jayme is concealed with cunning precision. Despite the constant fear, Jayme’s resolve remains unbroken, plotting her escape with steadfast determination.
January 10, 2019, the day of reckoning arrives. As Patterson steps out, Jayme seizes her chance, escaping and finding refuge with a neighbor. Her bravery leads to Patterson’s arrest and confession. By May 24, Patterson faces justice, sentenced to life without parole, while Jayme begins her path to healing, advocating for others like her.
Story Source: Documentary titled “Smart Justice: The Jayme Closs Case” (Lifetime).
