The chilling tale of Ryan Cooper's murder, as explored in the latest episode of Dateline NBC, titled The Farmer's Wife, aired on Friday, December 12, 2025.
For an episode airing on Friday, December 12, 2025, at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT, Dateline NBC will take its viewers on a harrowing journey through the quiet farming community of Traer, Iowa, where the grisly discovery of Ryan Cooper's body on June 18, 2021, sent shockwaves through the community. This episode, reported by Andrea Canning, delves into the sinister events surrounding his murder, initially reported as an accident, which was later revealed to be a carefully executed crime.
Ryan Cooper, a beloved father and farmer, was found slumped in his recliner with two gunshot wounds to the face. The initial claim of an accidental shooting quickly unraveled as investigators uncovered that his wife, Karina, had orchestrated his murder with the help of her affair partner.
The episode, "The Farmer's Wife", delves into the meticulous investigation that followed, as law enforcement worked to separate fact from fiction. The small town of Traer, Iowa, became a hotbed of rumors and speculation, with whispers of Karina's infidelity and her affair partner's involvement.
“The Farmer's Wife” portrays a web of lies and deceit, as investigators peel back the layers of the quiet farming community to reveal a shocking truth. The case was riddled with twists and turns, as investigators had to navigate a maze of small-town gossip to find the truth.
Canning meticulously pieced together the timeline of events, from the initial discovery of Ryan Cooper's body to the arrest of his wife and her accomplice. The episode takes viewers through the emotional journey of the Cooper family, as well as the investigative process that led to the eventual arrest and conviction of the perpetrators.
This latest episode of Dateline NBC, "The Farmer's Wife", not only shines a spotlight on the shocking events that unfolded in Traer, Iowa, but also highlights the intricate work of law enforcement in unraveling a complex murder case. Dateline NBC continues to be a beacon of true crime storytelling, offering viewers a glimpse into the minds of both the victims and the perpetrators. The Farmer’s Wife is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys true crime and suspenseful storytelling.
