James Kulstad’s Murder And The Bakersfield 3: Mystery, Motherhood, And Justice
This article describes the tragic murder of James Kulstad, a loving dad and business owner, in Bakersfield, California, in 2018. His death was connected to what came to be known as the Bakersfield 3 case, a jolting set of crimes revolving around missing people and murder.
The three victims’ mothers banded together to demand justice. This story is important because it exemplifies how strong family relationships, community support, and relentless effort can drive a search for answers, even when the answers remain elusive.
A Quiet Night Destroyed: The Tragic End To James Kulstad
James Kulstad, 38, was shot dead on a tame Bakersfield street on April 8, 201,8, when he drove through a quiet neighborhood in California. His car struck a trailer, and he was dead from multiple gunshot wounds when police arrived. James had just left a local chiropractor’s home. Witnesses reported seeing a silver sedan fleeing the scene at high speed. No one has been arrested to date. James’ murderer was never found.
A Father, A Surfer, A Dreamer: Who Was James Kulstad?
James Kulstad was born in Bakersfield on Aug. 9, 1979. He adored his daughters, surfing, and developing new products. After Amber died in a fluke accident, he came to San Diego to pursue his dreams and help raise his and Amber’s children, Camryn and Autumn. He owned a business selling skateboards and was in love with the beach. But after hurting his wrist, he became addicted to pain meds. And yet his daughters remained the lights of his life.
The Emotional Aftermath: One Daughter’s Pain And A Mother’s Battle
Camryn, James’ daughter, was crushed. She has publicly mourned, reminiscing about the times her dad would pick her up from school and embarrass her with kisses on the cheek. His mother, Diane Byrne, has joined two other mothers whose children were also victims of violent crimes, Cheryl Holsonbake and Jane Parrent. They banded together as a support group, determined to get to the bottom of these tragedies.
What Is The Bakersfield 3 Case?
Three young men — Micah Holsonbake, Baylee Despot, and James Kulstad — disappeared or were killed in 2018. Micah disappeared on March 23, Baylee on April 25, and James was killed on March 31. They would become known as the Bakersfield 3. Their mothers joined forces, putting pressure on law enforcement and seeking public support. While Micah’s case culminated in an arrest, James’ murder was later determined not to be connected.
Timeline Of Terror: The Bakersfield 3 Investigation And Events Leading Up To It
- March 23, 2018: Micah Holsonbake disappears near Kern Medical.
- March 31, 2018: James Kulstad is killed when he’s shot while sitting in his car.
- April 25, 2018: Baylee Despot goes missing.
- August 2018: Micah’s arm is discovered severed in Kern River.
- May 2020: Matthew Queen is charged with Micah’s killing. Baylee is added as a co-defendant.
- September 2022: Queen is sentenced to life plus 56 years. Baylee is still missing.
An Unsolved Case: Where Is The Killer Of James Kulstad?
While several of them all had ties to those who had a history of crime, none of them could be connected to James Kulstad and his murder. His mum and daughter didn’t know who they were, so James certainly didn’t know them. No arrests have been made. A reward of up to $10,000 remains available for any information that leads to a breakthrough in the case. Justice remains out of reach.
Mothers Of The Bakersfield 3 Turn Mourning Into A Mission
The mothers of the three have formed the Bakersfield 3 Charity to raise awareness and fund searches. They also gave $17,000 to the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, which will be used for sonar search equipment. Their pressure helped keep the cases in the spotlight. Their stories are now part of a three-part docuseries airing on Investigation Discovery, keeping the pressure on for answers and closure.
Media Focus: The Docuseries On ID
The Bakersfield 3 case became popular after the ID Network released a documentary, The Bakersfield 3: A Tale of Murder and Motherhood. It was released on May 11, 2025, and aired on Max. The series provides specifics of the crimes, the community response, and how the courage of these mothers led to action and arrests, even if some justice is not yet finished.
FAQs
What became of James Kulstad?
He was shot and killed during a drive through a Bakersfield neighborhood in April 2018. His murderer has never been found.
Was James Kulstad involved in the Bakersfield 3?
Initially, yes. However, subsequent investigations revealed that his case was unrelated to the others.
Who were the Bakersfield 3?
Three friends, Micah Holsonbake, Baylee Despot, and James Kulstad, were either killed or disappeared in 2018.
Has Micah Holsonbake’s murderer been found?
Yes. Matthew Queen was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2022.
What is the Bakersfield 3 Charity?
It’s a nonprofit twice begun by the mothers of the victims to increase awareness, help with searches, and advocate for justice.
Final Words
The tale of James Kulstad and the Bakersfield 3 is one of tragedy, love, and determination. A son, a friend, and an entrepreneur died too young. The family of his still searches for answers as his killer is still out there. Meanwhile, the mothers of the Bakersfield 3 channeled their grief into action. Their bravery spurs countless others to remain passionate in the fight for justice, even when the path is long.
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