In May of 1983, a dreadful crime was committed, leading to Diane Downs being referred to as “The Mommy Murderess”. The case shocked the world at the time and continues to send chills down the spines of readers. But the question remains, who exactly is Steve Downs?
Who is Steve Downs?
On November 13, 1973, a young woman named Diane eloped with her partner, Steve Downs. The couple tied the knot and went on to have beautiful children together.
Their first child, Christie Downs, was born in 1974. This was followed by Cheryl Lynn and then Stephen Daniel, born in 1976 and 1979, respectively. However, everything took a turn when Steve began to doubt the paternity of the third child.
Stephen Daniel, also known as Danny within the family, was suspected to be a result of an extramarital affair by his father, Steve. This led to turmoil within the marriage and traditional methods were unable to resolve the issue. Consequently, the couple decided to go their separate ways.
Early Life of Steve Downs
Steve Downs was one of the few individuals who saw Elizabeth Diane as a beauty. They encountered each other in Phoenix, Arizona, during their time at Moon Valley High School.
This occurred in the 70s, and their early connection soon blossomed into a relationship that would mature into something substantial.
Upon completing his education and their brief high school romance, Steve Downs enlisted in the navy.
After parting ways, the couple later reunited in Arizona and reignited their romance, eventually deciding to marry.
Where was Elizabeth Diane in the meantime?
After their high school days, Elizabeth Diane enrolled in the Pacific Coast Baptist Bible College (while Steve Downs joined the navy).
However, the religious principles and values of the institution did not align with Elizabeth’s beliefs, leading to her expulsion from the college.
Subsequently, she returned to her parents’ home in Arizona, where she would later reunite with Steve for their fateful marriage.
The Fateful and Unfortunate Marriage
It seemed as though the couple was destined to be together. Upon reuniting in Arizona, their love reignited, and their time apart only seemed to fuel their passion.
However, Elizabeth had to flee her home due to her parents’ disapproval of the marriage. Despite reservations from her parents, the couple chose to proceed with their plans.
They tied the knot on November 13, 1973, when Elizabeth Diane was 18 years old. Despite their reservations, they persevered in their marriage, resulting in the birth of three children.
However, the marriage was ultimately doomed.
The Divorce and Separation
The marriage encountered its challenges as Steve turned out to be unfaithful and irresponsible. Disagreements over finances and infidelity became prominent issues.
Their marriage lasted for seven years, with the accusation that their third child was a result of an extramarital affair. Steve’s belief that Stephen was not his biological child ultimately led to the dissolution of the marriage.
Additional factors such as Elizabeth getting pregnant without Steve’s consent and her prolonged disappearances further strained their relationship.
Steve’s confirmation that the child was not his biological offspring prompted him to end the marriage.
Neglect of Children and Desire for Male Attention
Elizabeth neglected her children, often leaving them in the care of her parents while she pursued relationships with other men. In 1983, she met a man named Robert Knickerbocker.
Although they were involved romantically, Robert, also known as Nick, showed little interest in assuming responsibility for Diane’s three children. This situation inspired Diane to consider a drastic resolution, enabling her to rid herself of her obligations and regain her partner’s affection.
The Aftermath of the Incident
Following the harrowing ordeal, the surviving children of Steve Downs experienced trauma that no child should endure. The lead prosecutor of the case, Fred Hugi, and his wife adopted Christie and Danny.
The trial highlighted Steve Downs as an unfit father, with Christie, the primary witness, and the authorities deeming him unsuitable for parental responsibilities.
Steve Downs and Contact with Children
The children have had no contact with Steve Downs. They were adopted and suffered prolonged mental and physical trauma. The healing process took years, and they continue to move forward.
Both children completed their education. Christie married and gave birth in 2005, while Danny excelled in computer proficiency.
Despite being paralyzed from the waist down, Danny continues to lead a fulfilling life.
Christie became a mother to a baby boy, and little is known about Danny. Both have chosen to retain their privacy and distance themselves from the media and public scrutiny.
The Role of Steve Downs After
Steve Downs never played a public role in the widely covered case against his wife, nor did he seek or receive media attention. While his ex-wife is incarcerated, Steve has distanced himself from her and the media.
It remains undisclosed where Steve currently resides or what his current relationships entail.
Steve Downs has not been involved in his family’s life since the tragic incident. He did not make any significant public appearances after 1983. Upon discovering that Danny was not his biological child, he severed ties with his wife.
Consequently, he has had no contact with any of his children, whether due to past trauma or evading responsibilities, remains unknown.
