“Open Desert”: Dateline Reports on Britney Ujlaky Homicide March 1 2025

NBC’s Dateline presents “Open Desert” on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT, an investigative report into the tragic murder of 17-year-old Britney Ujlaky. Correspondent Josh Mankiewicz delves into the circumstances surrounding her disappearance in a small Nevada town and the search efforts that led to an unexpected and disturbing revelation. As the episode unfolds, the focus shifts to someone close to Britney, leading to an emotional and dramatic conclusion.

This feature examines the case in detail, from the initial disappearance to the conviction of her murderer, Bryce Edward Dickey. The legal battles that followed, including an appeal to the Nevada Supreme Court, further reveal the intricacies of this harrowing case.

The Disappearance of Britney Ujlaky

On March 8, 2020, Britney Ujlaky was reported missing after failing to return home. Her father, Jim Ujlaky, immediately knew something was wrong. Britney had a habit of checking in regularly, but on this day, her phone went straight to voicemail.

Investigators initially treated her case as a possible runaway situation. However, suspicion arose when Bryce Dickey, an acquaintance of Britney’s, gave conflicting statements about her last known whereabouts. Dickey claimed he had dropped her off at Spring Creek High School, where she supposedly left with an unidentified man driving a green truck. This story soon unraveled.

Discovery of the Body and the Crime Scene Evidence

Three days after Britney’s disappearance, a group of volunteers searching the remote Nevada desert discovered her body in Burner Basin, an isolated area near Elko. She had been partially clothed and wrapped in a blue tarp. The autopsy later revealed that she died from a combination of strangulation and a deep stab wound to her neck.

Physical evidence at the scene pointed to Dickey. A used condom with DNA from both Britney and Dickey was found nearby. Additional DNA samples were recovered from Britney’s fingernails, neck, and even on chewing tobacco found near her body. Surveillance footage contradicted Dickey’s original account, showing his truck driving past Britney’s school without stopping.

The Investigation and Arrest of Bryce Dickey

Dickey’s behavior during the investigation raised further suspicion. He actively participated in search efforts, posted heartfelt messages on social media, and attended Britney’s vigil. However, his inconsistent statements and the mounting forensic evidence led investigators to focus on him as the prime suspect.

Dickey initially denied any sexual involvement with Britney. When confronted with the DNA evidence, he changed his story, claiming they had engaged in consensual oral sex. Investigators found this claim inconsistent with the nature of the crime and the evidence collected.

On March 18, 2020, ten days after Britney’s disappearance, authorities arrested Dickey on charges of murder and sexual assault.

The Trial and Conviction

The trial of Bryce Dickey began in 2022. The prosecution presented a strong case, emphasizing the forensic evidence, Dickey’s contradictory statements, and his behavior following Britney’s death. Expert witnesses, including forensic pathologist Dr. Julie Schrader and intelligence analyst Mike Soto, provided key testimony.

Dr. Schrader testified that Britney had been strangled and stabbed, with injuries consistent with ligature strangulation. Soto presented geolocation data from Snapchat, placing Dickey at the crime scene when Britney was killed.

Further damaging to Dickey’s case was the testimony of his ex-girlfriend, who recounted multiple instances in which he had choked her during their relationship. The prosecution argued that this demonstrated a pattern of violent behavior.

After two weeks of testimony, the jury found Dickey guilty of first-degree murder with the use of a deadly weapon and sexual assault with the use of a deadly weapon. He was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 46 years.

The Appeal and Supreme Court Ruling

Dickey appealed his conviction, arguing that the district court had improperly allowed testimony about his past violent behavior, misapplied expert testimony, and issued flawed jury instructions. He also claimed there was insufficient evidence to support his conviction for sexual assault.

In January 2024, the Nevada Supreme Court reviewed the case. While acknowledging some procedural errors during the trial, the justices ruled that these were harmless and did not affect the overall integrity of the verdict. The court upheld Dickey’s conviction, ensuring that he would serve his sentence as originally determined.

Community Impact and Aftermath

Britney’s murder left an indelible mark on the small town of Spring Creek. A promising young woman, known for her love of horses and her dream of becoming a rodeo queen, was taken far too soon. Her family and friends continue to honor her memory, advocating for awareness and justice for other victims of violent crime.

For many, Dateline’s episode “Open Desert” serves as both a reminder of Britney’s life and a cautionary tale about the dangers that can lurk even among those considered friends. The case of Bryce Dickey highlights the importance of forensic evidence, law enforcement diligence, and the pursuit of justice.

Conclusion

The case of Britney Ujlaky stands as a tragic and disturbing story of betrayal and violence. Through the efforts of law enforcement, forensic experts, and the justice system, her killer was brought to account. As Dateline revisits this chilling case, the details serve as a solemn reminder of the devastating consequences of trust placed in the wrong person.

“Open Desert” airs on Dateline on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT, offering a comprehensive look at this unforgettable case.