DB Cooper Suspect Sheridan Peterson And His Connection To Santa Rosa, CA

Key Highlights

Sheridan Peterson, a long-time resident of Northern California, was a prominent suspect in the unsolved D.B. Cooper hijacking case.
Peterson's background as a smokejumper and his physical resemblance to the hijacker's sketch made him a person of interest.
He lived a life of intrigue, serving in World War II and later dedicating himself to political causes across the globe.
Despite the suspicion, Peterson was never arrested or charged in connection with the crime and maintained he was in Nepal when it happened.
His connection to the Bay Area and his death in Santa Rosa have kept local interest in this enduring United States mystery alive.
Investigators remained intrigued by Peterson, even taking a DNA sample from him decades after the event.

Introduction

The legend of D.B. Cooper is one of the most famous unsolved mysteries in the United States. In 1971, a man hijacked a plane, extorted a ransom, and parachuted into the night, never to be seen again. Over the decades, many names have surfaced as potential suspects, but few are as compelling as Sheridan Peterson. This California native’s life of adventure, risk-taking, and political activism made him a fascinating figure in the enduring saga that stretches across North America from the Pacific Northwest to the San Francisco area.

The D.B. Cooper Hijacking: An American Mystery

The D.B. Cooper case remains the only unsolved skyjacking in the history of the United States. This audacious crime, which took place in the skies over the Pacific Northwest, captured the nation's imagination and turned the perpetrator into an unlikely folk hero. The mystery has endured for over 50 years, leaving a trail of questions across the contiguous United States. California, located on the West Coast of the United States, is renowned for its diverse geography that covers about 163,696 square miles, including beaches, mountains, and deserts. Historically, California was once part of Mexico before becoming a U.S. state in 1850, following the Gold Rush which greatly accelerated its population and development. These key facts highlight California's significant role in shaping American history and culture.

Many theories have emerged, but the identity of the man known as Dan Cooper is still unknown. The investigation has led down many paths, examining numerous individuals, including one particularly intriguing suspect whose life adds another layer to the story.

Recap of the 1971 Hijacking Event

On November 24, 1971, a man identifying himself as Dan Cooper boarded Northwest Orient Flight 305 out of Portland, Oregon. Shortly after takeoff, he passed a note to a flight attendant claiming he had a bomb in his briefcase. His demands were simple: $200,000 in cash and four parachutes.

The plane landed in Seattle, where the passengers were exchanged for the money and parachutes. The flight then took off again, heading toward Mexico City at Cooper's direction. Somewhere over the rugged terrain of British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest, he jumped from the rear of the aircraft with the ransom money.

Despite one of the most extensive manhunts in the history of the United States, no trace of Cooper was ever definitively found. The event baffled law enforcement and created an instant legend, with theories stretching from the wilderness of Washington to the San Francisco Bay.

Immediate Aftermath and Impact on U.S. Aviation

The D.B. Cooper hijacking sent shockwaves through the aviation industry in the United States. Before this event, airport security was minimal, and it was easy to board a plane without any real screening. The incident single-handedly forced a complete overhaul of safety protocols, leading to the metal detectors and baggage checks that are standard today.

The crime had an impact comparable to other major historical events in its ability to change national procedures, not unlike the rebuilding efforts after the San Francisco earthquake. The search for Cooper was as intensive in its own way as the search for fortune during the Gold Rush, but it yielded far fewer results.

Airlines quickly implemented technical fixes to prevent similar events. One such device, known as the "Cooper Vane," was installed on Boeing 727 aircraft to prevent the aft airstair from being opened in flight.

Investigation and National Public Fascination

Immediately following the hijacking, the FBI launched a massive investigation. Agents interviewed hundreds of people and chased down thousands of leads, but the identity of D.B. Cooper remained elusive. Composite sketches of the suspect were distributed across the country, from small towns to major urban areas like Los Angeles.

The public became captivated by the story. D.B. Cooper was often romanticized as a daring anti-hero who beat the system. This fascination spawned countless theories, books, and documentaries, turning the case into a cultural phenomenon.

Over the years, internet message boards and amateur sleuths in places like the Bay Area have kept the discussion alive. It was through these channels that many potential suspects, including Sheridan Peterson, gained notoriety, adding new chapters to the ever-evolving mystery.

Theories Pointing to Sheridan Peterson

Among the many suspects in the D.B. Cooper case, Sheridan Peterson stands out as one of the most convincing. His life story contains a series of coincidences and connections that made him a person of interest for both amateur detectives and the FBI. His connections to the California coast and time spent in the San Francisco Bay Area only added to the intrigue.

Theories gained traction because Peterson not only fit the physical description but also possessed the specific skills needed to pull off such a risky jump. We will now look into the specific reasons why he became a prime suspect.

Why Peterson Became a Suspect

Sheridan Peterson first appeared on the FBI's radar shortly after the 1971 crime. At 44 years old, he was the right age and had a close resemblance to the sketches of the hijacker. Living in the Bay Area at times, his life was marked by adventure and a willingness to take risks, which fit the profile of the skyjacker.

What truly made him a compelling suspect was his background. Peterson was a former U.S. Marine, an experienced smokejumper, and an avid skydiver. His work as a technical editor at Boeing in Seattle meant he had intimate knowledge of the 727 aircraft used in the hijacking. He even reportedly experimented with homemade bat wings, showing a flair for daredevil antics.

His name floated around internet forums for years, with many armchair detectives convinced he was the man. His life story, which stretched from the Sierra Nevada mountains to his final years in Santa Rosa, seemed to align perfectly with the mysterious persona of D.B. Cooper.

Key Evidence and Arguments

The case for Sheridan Peterson being D.B. Cooper is built on a collection of compelling, albeit circumstantial, evidence. An entrepreneur named Eric Ulis, who spent years investigating Peterson, became "98% convinced" he was the culprit. The arguments linking him to the crime are numerous and have been debated for years across Northern California and beyond.

In a 2007 article, Peterson himself acknowledged the circumstances that made him a suspect. He noted that friends and associates were certain he was Cooper, stating, "There were too many circumstances involved for it to be a coincidence." The evidence often cited includes:

He was 44 years old at the time, matching the estimated age of the hijacker.
Peterson closely resembled the official FBI sketches.
He worked for Boeing and knew the 727 aircraft.
A promotional photo showed him in a suit and tie, similar to Cooper's attire, while simulating a skydiving maneuver.

His life took him from the vibrant city of San Francisco to the arid Mojave Desert, but the shadow of D.B. Cooper always seemed to follow.

Interviews and Media Depictions

Despite being a suspect early on, the FBI did not formally interview Sheridan Peterson until 2004. Former agent Mary Jean Fryar described him as a "charming guy." During the interview, agents took a DNA swab, though the FBI never publicly commented on the results, unlike with other suspects who were ruled out via DNA.

Over the years, Peterson was often coy when asked if he was D.B. Cooper. He seemed to enjoy the speculation, neither fully confirming nor denying the accusation. His story gained wider exposure when he was interviewed for an episode of the History Channel's "History's Greatest Mysteries," putting his face to the name for a new generation of crime enthusiasts.

This media attention renewed public interest in Peterson as a suspect. From the San Francisco Bay to Los Angeles, people began to reconsider the case, looking at how this man who lived a quiet life near the Pacific Ocean could be the audacious criminal.

Early Life and Background of Sheridan Peterson

To understand why Sheridan Peterson became such a compelling suspect, it is essential to look at his life before the D.B. Cooper case. A California native, Peterson's journey took him from North America to Southeast Asia and back. His experiences shaped him into a complex individual known for his love of risk and his deep commitment to political causes.

From the Sierra Nevada mountains to the bustling streets near San Francisco, his background provides a fascinating glimpse into the man who many believe was the famed skyjacker. Let’s explore the key moments of his early life.

Childhood in North America

Born in the United States, Sheridan Peterson was a California native. His early life in North America set the stage for a future filled with adventure. Growing up in a state known for its diverse landscapes, including the highest peak of the Sierra Nevada, from stunning state parks to the iconic San Francisco Bay, likely fostered his appreciation for the outdoors and physical challenges.

While specific details of his childhood remain private, the environment of California during that era was one of growth and possibility. The state’s spirit of independence and exploration may have influenced his later pursuits.

California offers a wide range of experiences, and for anyone looking to learn more about its cities and colleges, resources are plentiful. Peterson’s own journey, however, would soon take him far beyond the Golden State, into military service and international travels that would define his character.

Education Journey and Notable Influences

While detailed records of Sheridan Peterson's specific educational path are not publicly available, his career as a technical editor at Boeing suggests a sharp and capable mind.

Early Careers and Travels

Sheridan Peterson's early career was anything but ordinary. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II, an experience that undoubtedly honed his discipline and resilience. After his military service, he worked as a technical editor for Boeing in Seattle, the very company that manufactured the hijacked 727.

His adventurous spirit also led him to become a smokejumper, one of an elite group of firefighters who parachute into remote areas to combat wildfires. This high-risk job demonstrated his comfort with parachuting and operating under pressure. These skills would later make him a prime suspect in the D.B. Cooper case.

Peterson's travels were extensive. He spent years in Nepal, where he claimed to be at the time of the hijacking and where his children were born. He also assisted refugees in Vietnam during the war, experiences that reportedly radicalized him and deepened his political convictions. For those seeking more information on Peterson, these travels are a key part of his story.

Life in California and Connection to Santa Rosa

After a life of globetrotting and adventure, Sheridan Peterson settled in Northern California, where he lived until his death in 2021 at the age of 94. He spent his final years in the Santa Rosa area, a city nestled in the heart of wine country. His presence in the Bay Area brought one of the nation's greatest mysteries to this scenic corner of the state.

This connection to Santa Rosa adds a unique, local dimension to the D.B. Cooper legend, linking the city to a story that has captivated people from the Golden Gate Bridge to the Pacific Northwest. Let's look at his life in this important California city.

Community Involvement in Santa Rosa

While Sheridan Peterson lived a relatively private life in Santa Rosa, his history of community involvement was significant and spanned the globe. Long before settling in Sonoma County, he was deeply committed to social and political causes. In 1965, during the Civil Rights movement, he helped establish freedom schools in the Deep South.

His activism continued abroad. During the Vietnam War, he spent years assisting refugees, a formative experience that investigator Eric Ulis believes may have "radicalized" him. Later, in 1989, he witnessed the Tiananmen Square massacre and spoke out against the violence.

Even in his later years living in the Bay Area, Peterson remained vocal about public policy. This lifelong dedication to those less fortunate paints a picture of a man with a strong moral compass, a trait that complicates the narrative of him as a potential criminal.

Professional Pursuits in California

After his time at Boeing in Seattle, Sheridan Peterson's professional life became more private. He eventually settled back in his native Northern California, where he lived out his remaining decades. A paid obituary published in the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat after his death confirmed his passing in the region, solidifying his link to the city.

Sheridan Peterson's social and political interests were a defining aspect of his character. According to investigator Eric Ulis, these passions may have provided the motive for the hijacking. Ulis theorized that Peterson's experiences in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War radicalized him, possibly inspiring him to commit an act of rebellion against the government.

Peterson was more than just a passive observer. He actively participated in some of the most significant social movements of his time. He helped establish freedom schools during the Civil Rights era and later spoke out against the Tiananmen Square massacre. From San Francisco to the state capital, his life reflected a deep engagement with the world around him.

This background adds a layer of complexity to his profile as a suspect. Was he a common thief, or was he a politically motivated actor with a Robin Hood-like complex? This question is central to understanding how his background may have influenced his suspected involvement in the hijacking.

Exploring Santa Rosa: Historical Significance

Santa Rosa, the city where Sheridan Peterson spent his final years, is a notable location in its own right. Situated in Sonoma County, north of San Francisco, it serves as a hub for the region's famous wine industry. Its history is tied to the agricultural bounty of the land, from the time of the Gold Rush to today.

Surrounded by rolling hills and the nearby Coast Ranges, Santa Rosa is more than just a backdrop to the D.B. Cooper story; it is a vibrant city with a rich heritage. Let's explore some of the unique features that make Santa Rosa an important California city.

Notable Landmarks and Attractions

Santa Rosa offers a variety of attractions for residents and visitors alike, blending urban life with natural beauty. The city is a gateway to Sonoma County's renowned wine country and is close to stunning national parks. Its downtown area, especially Old Courthouse Square, serves as a central gathering place for community events like the Earth Day festival.

The city actively preserves its natural spaces, with ongoing projects where volunteers help plant native species. For those who enjoy the outdoors, parks like Howarth Park provide recreational opportunities for families. Getting around is also becoming easier, with initiatives like the Redwood Bikeshare program offering free rides.

Some top attractions and activities in the Santa Rosa area include:

Exploring the shops and restaurants in Downtown Santa Rosa.
Visiting the numerous wineries in the surrounding Sonoma County.
Volunteering for creek cleanups and restoration projects.
Enjoying family time at community hubs like Howarth Park.
Biking through the city using the growing network of paths and bikeshare programs.
Attending annual events and festivals in the Bay Area.

Educational Opportunities and Colleges

Santa Rosa is part of California's extensive and diverse public education system. The state's Department of Education oversees more than 10,000 schools, ensuring that students from kindergarten through high school receive a quality education. For those pursuing higher education, the region offers numerous opportunities.

While Santa Rosa is home to Santa Rosa Junior College, a key local institution, its proximity to the greater San Francisco Bay Area provides access to a wide range of colleges and universities. California's higher education system is designed to provide pathways for all students, whether they are seeking technical training, an associate's degree, or a four-year university education.

The state's commitment to learning is evident in its tiered system of community colleges, state universities, and research institutions. This provides a robust framework for academic and career advancement.

Institution Type	Examples in the Region	Focus
Community College	Santa Rosa Junior College	Associate degrees, vocational training, transfers
State University	Sonoma State University	Bachelor's and Master's degrees
Private College	Various smaller institutions	Specialized liberal arts or professional programs

Unique Aspects of Life in Santa Rosa, California

Life in Santa Rosa offers a unique blend of small-town charm and access to world-class amenities. The city's location in Sonoma County provides a beautiful natural setting, characterized by a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This makes it ideal for agriculture, especially wine grapes, and for an outdoor-oriented lifestyle.

The community is actively engaged, with numerous volunteer opportunities, festivals, and public events that bring residents together. From creek cleanups to holiday celebrations in the downtown square, there is a strong sense of local pride. The city government focuses on initiatives like expanding housing options and improving public transportation to enhance the quality of life.

Unlike the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada, the landscape here is defined by rolling hills and vineyards. This connection to the land, combined with a forward-looking approach to urban development, is what makes Santa Rosa a special place to live.

Investigative Breakthroughs and Dead Ends

The D.B. Cooper investigation, codenamed NORJAK by the FBI, has been a decades-long journey filled with promising leads and frustrating dead ends. From Los Angeles to San Diego, tips have poured in from the public, but none have definitively solved the case. The investigation spanned the entire West Coast, with a heavy focus on individuals with aviation or parachuting experience.

Over the years, new technologies have allowed investigators to re-examine old evidence, but the mystery endures. The case against suspects like Sheridan Peterson highlights this pattern of tantalizing clues that ultimately lead to more questions than answers.

FBI Investigations and Profiling

From the outset, the FBI’s investigation focused on creating a profile of the suspect. They believed D.B. Cooper was not a master criminal but likely a man with a grudge who was familiar with the Pacific Northwest. The search extended throughout the country, including major hubs like San Jose and Los Angeles County.

Sheridan Peterson fit many aspects of the FBI’s profile. He was an experienced skydiver and had worked at Boeing. However, agents didn't interview him until 2004, more than 30 years after the hijacking. Former agent Mary Jean Fryar, who conducted the interview, found him charming but didn't come away with conclusive evidence.

The FBI’s official stance for many years was that Cooper likely died during the jump. This belief guided their investigation, even as they continued to look into promising suspects like Peterson. The case remains a fascinating example of a criminal profile that was both specific and maddeningly broad.

Forensic Analysis and Modern Techniques

As forensic science advanced, so did hopes of solving the D.B. Cooper case. One of the most significant modern techniques available is DNA analysis. The FBI was able to extract a partial DNA profile from the tie Cooper left behind on the plane. This profile has been used to eliminate numerous suspects over the years.

When the FBI interviewed Sheridan Peterson in 2004, they took a DNA swab from him. However, the bureau never publicly announced whether his DNA was a match or not. This silence is noteworthy, as they had previously used DNA to publicly clear other high-profile suspects.

This lack of closure has fueled speculation among true crime enthusiasts in urban areas and beyond. Did the test prove he wasn't Cooper, or was the result inconclusive? From the deserts of Baja California to the chilly northwest, the answer remains locked in an FBI file, adding another layer of mystery to the case.

Public Tips, Letters, and Unsolved Clues

Public fascination with the D.B. Cooper case has generated a constant stream of tips and theories. For decades, people from all walks of life have contacted the FBI with potential leads. The investigation files are filled with letters from individuals claiming to be Cooper or to know his true identity.

The rise of the internet created new forums for amateur sleuths to dissect every piece of evidence. It was on these message boards that Sheridan Peterson’s name gained significant traction. People living along the Pacific Coast and in regions like the San Joaquin Valley shared information and pieced together the circumstantial evidence against him.

Despite all the public interest, several key clues remain unsolved, keeping the mystery alive.

The $5,800 of ransom money found on a riverbank in 1980.
The black tie left on the plane, which yielded a partial DNA profile.
The true identity of the man who called himself Dan Cooper.
Whether Cooper survived the jump over the rugged Coast Ranges.

Sheridan Peterson’s Personal Perspective

While investigators and amateur detectives built a case against him, Sheridan Peterson had his own way of addressing the accusations. For years, he walked a fine line between denial and playful ambiguity, never fully shutting down the speculation. He seemed to relish his role as a key suspect in one of America's greatest unsolved mysteries.

His statements and writings offer a glimpse into how he viewed his connection to the D.B. Cooper legend. From his quiet home in Santa Rosa in the San Francisco Bay Area, he watched the theories swirl, occasionally adding fuel to the fire himself.

Public Statements and Press Interviews

Sheridan Peterson did not shy away from the spotlight when it came to the D.B. Cooper case. In interviews, he often spoke about the accusations with a sense of amusement. He acknowledged that the evidence against him looked incriminating but always stopped short of a confession.

In a 2007 article for Smokejumper magazine, he wrote, "Actually, the FBI had good reason to suspect me." He listed the reasons, including his age, his resemblance to the sketches, and a photo of him wearing a suit for a Boeing news sheet. This willingness to engage with the theories only deepened the public's fascination.

His most prominent appearance was in an episode of the History Channel's "History's Greatest Mysteries." In this interview, conducted late in his life, he was again charming and evasive. These public statements have shaped the perception of him as a clever and enigmatic figure, fitting the folk-hero image of D.B. Cooper.

One of the most revealing documents from Sheridan Peterson's perspective is an article he wrote himself. In a 2007 issue of Smokejumper, a magazine for the National Smokejumper Association, he directly addressed his status as a D.B. Cooper suspect. The piece provides a unique look into his mindset.

He laid out the "circumstances" that made him a suspect, noting that "friends and associates agreed that I was without a doubt D.B. Cooper." He pointed to a photo of himself in a suit and tie, simulating a skydiving maneuver for a Boeing publication, as particularly incriminating, observing that skydivers don't usually dress so formally.

This article is the closest thing to a memoir that Peterson ever produced about the hijacking. It shows that he was keenly aware of the case against him and seemed to enjoy the notoriety. His writing style was witty and intelligent, further cementing his image as a character who could have been D.B. Cooper.

Family and Friends’ Viewpoints

The people who knew Sheridan Peterson best were often the most convinced of his guilt. In his own writings, he admitted that his friends and associates believed he was "without a doubt D.B. Cooper." They saw the collection of circumstantial evidence as too strong to be a coincidence.

Even his family's public statements contained intriguing details. A paid obituary published in the Santa Rosa newspaper after his death mentioned that his two children were "born in Nepal under very astir conditions." This detail seems to corroborate his alibi that he was in Nepal at the time of the hijacking, but the unusual phrasing adds another layer of mystery.

Did his family believe his alibi, or did they share the suspicions of his friends? Like so many other aspects of Peterson's life, from Santa Cruz to the Channel Islands, the full story remains just out of reach, leaving us to wonder what those closest to him truly thought.

Legacy in American True Crime Culture

The D.B. Cooper hijacking has secured a permanent place in American true crime culture. The story's blend of daring, mystery, and the perpetrator's clean getaway has turned it into a modern legend. It represents one of the few major crimes in the United States where the culprit truly vanished.

Suspects like Sheridan Peterson are a key reason the story endures. His compelling background and enigmatic personality keep the case alive in the public consciousness, ensuring that the legend of D.B. Cooper continues to be told from the California coast to the Gold Country.

Books, Documentaries, and Podcasts

The D.B. Cooper case has been a goldmine for authors, filmmakers, and content creators. The mystery has inspired a vast amount of media, ensuring that each new generation gets a chance to discover the story. From major urban areas like Los Angeles to the quiet towns of the Pacific Northwest, the tale continues to find an audience.

Sheridan Peterson's role as a suspect has been featured in some of this media, most notably in an episode of the History Channel series "History's Greatest Mysteries." This episode brought his story to a wide audience and presented the evidence linking him to the crime.

The case has been explored in various formats, including:

Investigative non-fiction books detailing the manhunt.
A 1981 feature film, "The Pursuit of D. B. Cooper," starring Treat Williams.
Numerous television documentaries on networks like History and HBO.
Countless true-crime podcasts that dissect different theories.
Online forums and websites where amateur sleuths share their findings.
Magazine articles, such as the one Peterson wrote himself.

Representations in Popular Media

D.B. Cooper's portrayal in popular media has largely cemented his status as a folk hero. He is often depicted as a suave, calculated risk-taker who outsmarted the authorities. This romanticized image has appeared in films, television shows, and even songs, making him a symbol of rebellion and freedom.

The 1981 movie "The Pursuit of D. B. Cooper" is a prime example of this, portraying the hijacker as a charismatic adventurer. More recently, the character has made appearances or been referenced in TV shows like "Loki," "Mad Men," and "Prison Break," each time reinforcing his legendary status.

The introduction of compelling suspects like Sheridan Peterson has helped evolve this public perception. He adds a real face and a fascinating life story to the myth, moving the narrative from a faceless phantom to a complex individual. This shift keeps the story grounded and ensures its continued appeal from Los Angeles to the Pacific Ocean.

Ongoing Interest in Santa Rosa, California

Sheridan Peterson's death in Northern California in 2021 brought the D.B. Cooper mystery directly to Santa Rosa. The publication of his obituary in the local press and the national attention it received solidified the city's place in the saga. For residents of the San Francisco Bay Area, the legend was no longer a distant tale from the Northwest.

This connection has sparked local interest, with many in the community learning for the first time that a primary suspect lived quietly among them. It adds a layer of intrigue to the city's history, linking it to one of the 20th century's most captivating unsolved crimes.

As a result, Santa Rosa has become a point of interest for true-crime enthusiasts exploring the D.B. Cooper case. It represents the final chapter in Sheridan Peterson's enigmatic life and serves as a reminder that extraordinary stories can be found in the most unexpected places.

Conclusion on DB Cooper suspect Sheridan Peterson

The mysterious life of Sheridan Peterson intertwines with intriguing possibilities, leaving everyone yearning for answers. As theories swirl around his connection to the notorious D.B. Cooper case, California’s urban areas and vast landscapes, from the desert expanse of Death Valley to the majestic Sierra Nevada and Yosemite National Park, provide a backdrop rich in history and intrigue. Although definitive evidence remains elusive, the exploration of Peterson’s past paints a complex picture that captures the imagination. Ultimately, the quest for the truth will carry on, inviting new generations to uncover the secrets hidden within the Golden State's allure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Was Sheridan Peterson ever formally charged as D.B. Cooper?

No, Sheridan Peterson was never formally charged in the D.B. Cooper case. While the FBI considered him a strong suspect and even interviewed him in 2004, there was never enough evidence to lead to an arrest or charges. He remained a person of interest throughout his life.

How is Santa Rosa, California, connected to the DB Cooper suspect Sheridan Peterson?

Santa Rosa is connected to the D.B. Cooper case as the city where primary suspect Sheridan Peterson lived his final years and passed away in 2021. His death in Northern California and the publication of his obituary in a Santa Rosa newspaper brought national attention to the city's link to this famous mystery.

Where can I find more information about D.B. Cooper and Sheridan Peterson?

You can find more information in books about the case, television documentaries, and true-crime podcasts. Peterson himself was featured in an episode of the History Channel's "History's Greatest Mysteries" and wrote an article for Smokejumper magazine in 2007 discussing his connection to the hijacking.

https://vault.fbi.gov/D-B-Cooper%20/

https://www.oregonlive.com/history/2018/01/as_a_new_clue_upends_db_cooper.html

https://www.fbi.gov/history/famous-cases/db-cooper-hijacking#:~:text=Perhaps%20Cooper%20didn't%20survive%20his%20jump%20from,that%20matched%20the%20ransom%20money%20serial%20numbers.

https://www.oregonlive.com/history/2021/01/charming-db-cooper-suspect-sheridan-peterson-dies-at-94-spent-years-dedicated-to-political-causes.html

How did Sheridan Peterson's background influence his suspected involvement in the hijacking?

Peterson's background as a World War II marine, an experienced smokejumper, and an avid skydiver provided him with the skills necessary to perform the risky jump. His work at Boeing also gave him knowledge of the aircraft. This combination of experience made him a highly credible suspect.

How has the public's perception of D.B. Cooper changed over the years, especially with new suspects like Peterson?

Initially, D.B. Cooper was a faceless folk hero. Suspects like Sheridan Peterson have changed that perception by adding a human element to the myth. His complex life story, mixing adventure with political activism, makes the character of Cooper feel more tangible and less like a simple phantom.

What evidence links Sheridan Peterson to the D.B. Cooper case?

Circumstantial evidence linking Peterson includes his physical resemblance to FBI sketches, his age, his experience as a skydiver, and his knowledge of the Boeing 727. A promotional photo of him simulating a skydive in a suit and tie also matched the hijacker's attire, which he himself called incriminating.

What are the most compelling theories surrounding D.B. Cooper's identity, including Peterson’s?

Besides Sheridan Peterson, other compelling suspects have included Richard McCoy Jr., a Vietnam veteran who committed a similar hijacking, and Robert Rackstraw, another veteran with parachute training. However, Peterson's unique combination of skills, knowledge, and physical similarity to the sketch keeps him at the top of many lists.

Did Sheridan Peterson pass away?

Yes, Sheridan Peterson passed away on January 8, 2021, at the age of 94. His death was reported in an obituary in the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat, confirming he spent his final years in Northern California. With his passing, any secrets he held about the D.B. Cooper case are likely gone forever.