Research Discovery'sHunted by My Husband: The Untold Story of the DC Snipertonight takes a look at one of America's most horrific crimes, but this time through the eyes of the woman who lived it.
Source: Hunted By My Husband: The Untold Story of the DC Sniper / Investigation Discovery
Dr. Mildred Muhammad, the ex-wife of convicted sniper John Muhammad, is stepping forward to reveal the truth behind the headlines: that the infamous 2002 shootings were not random acts of terror, but a calculated plan rooted in domestic abuse.
“This opportunity came through Investigation Discovery and No Excuses for Abuse,” she shared with BOSSIP. “They felt that my story hadn't really been told, and I was grateful to share the part that people needed to know; not many knew about me.”
The documentary, premiering today from 9-11pm ET/PT as part of ID's annual No Excuse for Abuse campaignReframes public understanding of domestic violence, reminding the public that not all scars are visible.
Healing before sharing
Dr. Muhammad speaks with clarity and calmness, the result of years of inner work before entering the public eye.
Source: Hunted By My Husband: The Untold Story of the DC Sniper / Investigation Discovery
“I'm completely healed from this situation,” she told BOSSIP. “I made sure that before I started sharing my story. I did a lot of healing before this so I wouldn't be triggered to answer questions or share my story with others.”
That process started with acceptance.
“You have to accept that you are in pain,” she explained. “Sometimes we don't want to admit that someone got to us, but that's where you have to start. Identify the emotion, work through it until it doesn't sting anymore. Journalists helped me when I had no one to talk to. Writing was my window for healing.”
A hidden goal
Law enforcement later confirmed that John Muhammad's violent spree was a cover for his true intention: to kill Mildred and get custody of their children.
“They wanted it to appear like a random shooting,” she said. “But who would believe that a man came across the country to kill his wife? The theory was that he killed innocent people to cover up my murder so he could come in as the grieving father and get custody of his children.”
With no visible injuries, Mildred says her calls for help were often rejected.
“Eighty percent of the victims have no physical scars,” she explained to BOSSIP. “We are a visual society. If people can't see your scars, they think they don't exist. For a long time, I didn't exist.”
The psychology of abuse
Dr. Muhammad now uses her platform to educate others about the early signs of coercive control.
Source: Hunted By My Husband: The Untold Story of the DC Sniper / Investigation Discovery
“When you meet someone, you meet their representative,” she said. “After sixty to ninety days, the real person begins to emerge. Pay attention to words. Don't give people a blueprint to your heart. Once you tell them what you're looking for, they adjust to fit it – until you're emotionally connected, and then the real person comes out.”
She is direct about manipulation and narcissism.
“A narcissist knows exactly what they're doing. Every action is intentional. You have to love yourself more than the person you're with. That's the only way to beat a narcissist.”
In an exclusive clip from tonight's premiere, Muhammad shared how John joined the Nation of Islam to exert control over them. She recalled finding Islam and how it deepened her relationship with God. Then Johannes came along – but not because he wanted to strengthen his faith, but to make sure that she submitted to his will.
“He would say, 'I am your God, you do what I tell you to do,'” she recalled him telling her. “I am the God in this house. He was full of anger.”
A Blueprint for Leaving
In the documentary and in her advisory work, Dr. Muhammad real steps for those trying to leave abusive situations.
“Up to 75% of women who try to leave are injured or killed, but don't let that stop you,” she urged. “Make a plan. Open a separate bank account at another bank. Save small amounts quietly. Keep a bag at work, not in your car. Silence is your greatest tool; the element of surprise is your greatest weapon.”
Her practical advice continues with crucial reminders.
“Don't post your plans on social media. Don't record your abuse without checking the law. When you leave, take all IDs and documents. Block them on any platform and don't meet them privately, that's when many get killed.”
For those who need support, she emphasizes one source.
“The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-7233. Advocates are available 24/7. You are never alone.”
From victim to voice
Although the documentary brought national attention to her story, Dr. Muhammad spent two decades helping survivors.
Source: Hunted By My Husband: The Untold Story of the DC Sniper / Investigation Discovery
“This project allows my story to reach more audiences,” she said. “I've been talking for years, visiting shelters and accompanying victims for years. I want people to understand that it often takes seven tries before a woman leaves; not because she doesn't want to, but because she doesn't know how. Every victim wants to leave.”
Her message is clear and urgent.
“You don't have to have physical scars to be a survivor of domestic violence. My help was slow because I didn't fit their profile of what a victim should look like.”
Redefining strength
As a Black woman, Dr. Muhammad also challenges cultural expectations of silence and endurance.
Source: Hunted By My Husband: The Untold Story of the DC Sniper / Investigation Discovery
“We are – Black women – are often taught to be strong and figure it out for ourselves,” BOSSIP's Lauryn Bass shared with her during our conversation and she nodded in agreement.
Her story, and her willingness to share it without fear or bitterness, is a testament to what real strength looks like.
“There's a silver lining to every day,” she replied. “You just have to look for it, and once you find it: hold onto it until the next day.”
Hunted By My Husband: The Untold Story of the DC Sniper premieres Tuesday, October 28 from 9-11 PM ET/PT on Investigation Discovery.
