George Knapp
Verified- Chief Investigative Reporter, KLAS-TV (Las Vegas, NV)
- Co-Host, WEAPONIZED with Jeremy Corbell & George Knapp
Nevada
Chief Investigative Reporter for KLAS TV, weekend host Coast to Coast AM, Weaponized podcast, author
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Articles by George Knapp
New UFO documents confirm reports of secret 1949 ‘green fireballs’ meeting
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – Buried among all the videos and photos from the Pentagon’s fourth batch of UFO files is a document confirming scientists held a secret 1949 conference to discuss the near Los Alamos, New Mexico. Attendees included prominent scientists, including some who worked on the Manhattan Project. This confirms reporting from George Knapp and KLAS over the decades of this occurrence as well as the government’s response.
Las Vegas mob secrets revealed in new book about the outfit that helped rule in the ’70s and ’80s
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – Frank Calabrese Jr. experienced a life that most people have only witnessed in movies such as “Casino.” Frank Jr. was an enforcer in his father’s Chicago Chinatown mob crew that would go on to play a major role in Las Vegas history. His father, Frank Calabrese Sr., and uncle, Nick Calabrese, were enforcers for the Chicago Outfit and were called to take out the infamous Tony “the Ant” Spilotro.
Astrophysicist reveals 1945 New Mexico UFO crash details
This article was originally published Oct. 21, 2021. It has been updated for spelling as well as the addition of this 1990 On The Record interview: LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – The atomic age officially began in August 1945 when the world’s first atomic bomb was detonated in New Mexico at a place called Trinity. But something else happened near that site just a few weeks later. “Now remember, this was 1945, August 1945. Two years before Roswell,” Dr. Jacques Vallée said in a new interview with Mystery Wire.
Former KLAS-TV news director’s challenges in reporting the Area 51 story
This story was originally published on November 14, 2019. It has been updated for spelling. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Former KLAS-TV news director Bob Stoldal had a lot to share about the Area 51 story, and his dedication to finding out what was going on at the secret base along with George Knapp. Gary Francis Powers and the U-2 spy plane, the F-117A stealth fighter, a JFK visit, and a Naval Intelligence visit to the KLAS studios were all interesting parts of the story.
Forgotten chapter in NASA history: The fight to save the space chimps
The video above shows the original interview George Knapp had with Senators Harry Reid and John Glenn that began the process of saving the space chimps. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – After more recent exposés on the experience of chimpanzees in the southwest, it’s worth looking back at the interview series from George Knapp that blew the case of the space chimps wide open – and saved many of their lives.
Las Vegas family claims to see abnormally tall aliens after strange crash in 2023
This story was originally published on June 8, 2023. It has been updated for spelling. A follow-up article on the same day by reporter David Charns is also linked here. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Just before midnight on April 30th, 2023, sky-watchers across several western states saw a bright fireball streak through the sky. A police officer working in part of the Las Vegas valley caught a glimpse of the colorful fireball on his body cam.
Crossing the line into Area 51 gets caught on camera in 2014
This story was originally published on July 9, 2014. It has been updated for spelling. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – A tour bus carrying visitors to the edge of the top-secret Area 51 military base has done something that many people have only fantasized about doing. It crossed the line and entered the base. The driver and his four passengers learned a quick lesson about how serious Area 51 is about its boundary and its security. And the entire incident was captured on video.
Spielberg’s ‘Disclosure Day’ sparks UFO information debate
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – With the release of Steven Spielberg’s new movie, ‘Disclosure Day,’ on Friday, June 12, the push for the government to release secrets about UFOs is reaching a fever pitch. A bipartisan group of lawmakers even held a news conference on the issue Tuesday. Award-winning screenwriter Bryce Zabel joined George Knapp and Ron Futrell at an advance screening for the new movie, and all three came away with different impressions of the film.
How physics can explain mysteries of the afterlife, consciousness and aliens
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – Many people shy away from tackling the deep questions everyone has. Questions like “Why are we here?” “Where are we going?” and “What is the meaning of life?” UNLV Professor Dr. Michael Pravica is not one of those people. In fact, he’s spent much of his academic life attempting to answer those very questions with his background as a physicist providing a rational underpinning for his beliefs.
When will the next UFO files be released?
(NewsNation) — With the newest tranche of UFO documents approximately four days old, many in the disclosure community are already looking to the next batch of files and when they might hit the web. Journalist and UFO expert Jeremy Corbell spoke to Elizabeth Vargas on NewsNation’s “Elizabeth Vargas Reports” on Tuesday and said the truth, when it comes to the future release date of a new cluster of groundbreaking government disclosures, is out there.
Area 51’s allure draws tourists to the unexplainable
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Few mysteries draw more interest than Area 51. In fact, in April, a Polish man was caught filming Area 51. Though he ultimately avoided jail time, this incident further proves just how integral the site truly is to all interested in UFOs. A cottage industry of sorts exists around Area 51, with tourists regularly flocking to nearby Rachel, Nevada, to get close to the base and spend time with other UFO enthusiasts. Sometimes, it even turns into a viral sensation.
Las Vegas entrepreneur unveils new Bigfoot-themed bourbon
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Perhaps you’ve heard of Crystal Skull vodka or Alien tequila? Well, now it’s Bigfoot’s turn to get an alcohol makeover. Make way for a Bigfoot-themed bourbon, a new product launched by a Las Vegas entrepreneur with no previous experience in the booze biz. “We take this seriously because the people who believe in Bigfoot take this very seriously,” Jeff Taylor, Co-founder of Big Shadow Bourbon, told 8 News Now’s George Knapp.
Las Vegas entrepreneur unveils new Bigfoot-themed bourbon
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Perhaps you’ve heard of Crystal Skull vodka or Alien tequila? Well, now it’s Bigfoot’s turn to get an alcohol makeover. Make way for a Bigfoot-themed bourbon, a new product launched by a Las Vegas entrepreneur with no previous experience in the booze biz.
New Pentagon files shed light on decades of UFO sightings
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — On Friday, the Pentagon released 162 files containing information on unidentified flying objects, including 41 minutes of video footage, to its website. The disclosure follows a promise by former President Donald Trump regarding government-held UFO data. The collection includes videos, photos, and reports of sightings, with eyewitness testimony detailing incidents spanning decades from around the world.
DNA test uncovers kidnapping, mob, police corruption
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – A Henderson man named Paul Fronczak had no idea that his entire life would be turned upside down when he bought a home DNA test kit. The results of that test took away his name, his family, and everything he knew about his life to that point. It also opened up a multi-layered rabbit hole involving an infamous kidnapping, police corruption, the mob, and dark secrets buried for six decades.
New book looks at Harry Reid’s career, including UFO and mob dealings
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – From the humblest of origins, the late Harry Reid made an unlikely rise to the pinnacle of American political power. He became the most influential Nevadan in history. Reid was born into poverty inside a one-room shack in the tiny mining town of Searchlight, Nevada.
Major newspaper claims Air Force created alien tech stories at Area 51 to mislead public Original
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Did the Air Force create the stories about alien technology being stashed and tested at Area 51? A major newspaper said the whole thing was made up by the Air Force in order to mislead the American public and our adversaries. The release of a new documentary film has stirred up renewed interest in Area 51 lore. But was it all propaganda? This new version of what happened 37 years ago was published in The Wall Street Journal, a highly respected newspaper, but is it true?
Rep. Titus shares thoughts on Area 51, UFO disclosure
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – A rare moment of bi-partisan agreement – with a few jabs thrown in – as Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV) answered a viewer question during an April 29 segment on The Hill with Blake Burman on NewsNation about Area 51 and UFO disclosure. Below is the full transcript of the question and answer: Viewer Question: “The president’s saying the UFO files are going to be released soon. You’re in Vegas, Area 51, not that far away. That’s right. What do you think we learn, if anything?” Rep.
Fronczak kidnapping mystery: Man’s true identity revealed by DNA
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – One DNA test changed the trajectory of Paul Fronczak’s life forever. The results upended the lives of three families as he discovered decades later that he wasn’t the person he had grown up believing himself to be. Sixty-two years ago, in 1964, the long and confusing saga of Paul Fronczak’s history began when a baby was kidnapped from a Chicago hospital.
Bob Lazar’s story is the latest pushing disclosure in theaters – and not the last
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – The hype has yet to recede following the release of a “S4: The Bob Lazar Story” on Amazon Prime. The film, which highlights the long story of Bob Lazar, is bringing attention not only to Lazar and his claims but also a new generation of filmmakers and documentarians inspired by his work. One of those men is Luigi Vendittelli, who joined Mystery Wire for an interview in a special two-part episode.
Bob Lazar’s UFO claims gain traction with ‘S4’ success
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – 8 News Now has reported on Bob Lazar many times over the past four decades, and now his name is breaking into the mainstream with the release of a new movie on Amazon Prime called ‘S4: The Bob Lazar Story.’ This week on Mystery Wire, hosts George Knapp and Ron Futrell sat down with Luigi Vendittelli, the director of the film, to talk about what he learned as he put the project together.
Reconstructing the world of Bob Lazar: ‘S4’ collaboration brings original story to life
Reconstructing the world of Bob Lazar: ‘S4’ collaboration brings original story to life LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — The basic story is one well known to our viewers since we’ve reported on Bob Lazar many times over the decades. One thing we know for sure — the mere mention of his name still ignites arguments, character attacks, and metaphorical heads exploding.
Reconstructing the world of Bob Lazar: ‘S4’ collaboration brings original story to life
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — The basic story is one well known to our viewers since we’ve reported on Bob Lazar many times over the decades. One thing we know for sure — the mere mention of his name still ignites arguments, character attacks, and metaphorical heads exploding. Visually stunning, the documentary film titled “S4” brings the tale to a new level, thanks to virtual reality technology that didn’t exist back in the beginning. “DENNIS”: There are nine flying saucers, flying discs … .
New book uncovers secrets of government funded UFO investigation program: exclusive interview
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – In the early days of 2006, a career intelligence analyst at the Defense Intelligence Agency named Dr. James Lacatski began a conversation with a colleague named Jay Stratton about UFOs and related phenomena. The conversation focused on whether repeated UFO intrusions at sensitive military assets might represent a national security threat.
Craft of unknown origin subject of secret study, former US intelligence official confirms
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — A former U.S. intelligence official who directed the government’s largest UFO investigation confirmed that at least one craft of unknown origin is being studied in absolute secrecy. Dr. James Lacatski, a former analyst for the Defense Intelligence Agency, said the existence of the craft is only one part of a much larger mystery involving paranormal phenomena.
Howard Hughes: The godfather of Las Vegas
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – The legendary Howard Hughes, an aviator, film producer and investor, died 50 years ago, but it is hard to name anyone who symbolizes Las Vegas more than he. Of the many mysteries in Hughes’ life, the circumstances surrounding his will after his death on April 5, 1976, continue to be the subject of speculation. While there are questions about the actual amount of money in the will, the story became larger-than-life with the introduction of Melvin Dummar.
Nevada Senator Harry Reid’s hidden interest in aliens and UFOs
A preview of Claw World's grand opening celebration in Las Vegas Mary Jane's Forecast: March 27, 2026 Las Vegas man shot, killed in vehicle while listening to music Tedd's Forecast: March 26, 2026 4 indicted for murder in Las Vegas 'friendly fire' shooting involving rap video Las Vegas bio lab sparks pathogen-tracking legislation from Cortez Masto VIDEO: Las Vegas charity seeks help recovering stolen plaque Fight between roommates ends in deadly stabbing, suicide: Las Vegas police North Las...
Mob-era Las Vegas: a violent history exposed
Sherry's Forecast: March, 24, 2026 Tedd's Forecast: March 23, 2026 Clark County to give away 2K+ trees to residents Crews battle apartment fire in Henderson; no injuries reported Family sues after deadly AutoZone shooting in Las Vegas; suspect released from prison weeks earlier Henderson, police unions reach deal, again Las Vegas police arrest asst.
The secret underground tunnels beneath our feet
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — When it comes to underground tunnels, Elon Musk and The Boring Company are far from the first people to dig down below our feet for massive projects. Some of those projects – such as networks of secret government tunnels stretching from Nevada to New Mexico and beyond – are used for purposes hidden from the public. No wonder they are the source of a wide web of conspiracies ever since.
Mystery Wire rewind: George Knapp on UFO interests, Bigfoot claims
Mystery Wire dives deep into some of the world’s most compelling mysteries, from classified government UFO programs and insider revelations to fresh investigations into Bigfoot sightings. 00:25 Ep. 1 Mystery Wire Returns: Mystery Wire looks at the unknown and unsolved stories, including Area 51 and aliens, Bigfoot and other cryptids, the mob, and more. In this episode, we look back at Mystery Wire content from years ago with hosts George Knapp and Ron Futrell.
Mystery Wire rewind: George Knapp on UFO interests, Bigfoot claims
The image from video provided by the Department of Defense labelled Gimbal, from 2015, an unexplained object is seen at center as it is tracked as it soars high along the clouds, traveling against the wind. “There’s a whole fleet of them,” one naval aviator tells another, though only one indistinct object is shown.
Mob Museum to reveal Jimmy Chagra's untold stories
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – One of the biggest and most generous high rollers in the history of Las Vegas gamblers was also one of the largest drug smugglers in the world.
Chicago mob's Vegas downfall: Skimming and murders
Nate's Forecast: March 5, 2026 Las Vegas police identify man arrested in double homicide that left woman, toddler dead Henderson mom admits to killing 2 children, will serve life in prison North Las Vegas police locate child after Amber Alert issued Las Vegas corrections officer arrested for domestic battery, child abuse Wind advisory in effect for Las Vegas valley for several days Sherry's Forecast: March 5, 2026 Eastside Cannery casino imploded overnight Vegas Loop worker injured, rescued...
Presidents and UFOs: A history of secrecy and speculation
Lunar New Year Festival at Korea Town UK family hit by drunk driver in Las Vegas visits LVMPD to thank them Mary Jane's Forecast: Feb.
More Russian UFO investigation documents declassified, shared
Desert clean up outside of Las Vegas removes 30 tons of trash Sherry's forecast: Feb.
‘Mob On The Run’ and Channel 8’s fearless coverage of Las Vegas mob, part one
Raiders House Band strikes gold with prestigious industry honor Nevada lawmakers approve $700 million in education funds; including teacher bonuses Spy Ninjas HQ responds to child falling at Las Vegas indoor park Las Vegas military veteran, 70, embroiled in dispute over 1 mortgage payment Nevada plays vital role in replenishing blood supplies after 750 canceled drives Tedd's Forecast: February 19, 2026 Man shot while chasing woman with knife during domestic disturbance, Henderson police say...
The real history of the Las Vegas mobster behind Martin Scorcese’s "Casino"
Inside Las Vegas’ busiest wedding weekend; it involves an Elvis impersonator Mary Jane's Forecast: Feb. 12, 2026 Man arrested for shooting, killing daughter's boyfriend Tedd's Forecast: February 11, 2026 Does Las Vegas believe the fed job data?
Las Vegas group set the bar for UFO investigations 30 years ago
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Thirty years ago, a distinguished group held its first formal meeting here in Las Vegas to discuss how they might approach two of the most perplexing questions of human existence. 8 News Now Chief Investigator George Knapp was invited to participate in that gathering.
30 years of discovery: Uncovering the truth about UFOs and beyond at NIDS
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Thirty years ago, a distinguished group formally met for the first time in Las Vegas to advise the newly formed National Institute for Discovery Science (NIDS). Known as the NIDS Science Advisory Board, this organization set the standard for future UFO/UAP and unusual phenomena investigations.
Las Vegas group set the bar for UFO investigations 30 years ago
Las Vegas group set the bar for UFO investigations 30 years ago LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Thirty years ago, a distinguished group held its first formal meeting here in Las Vegas to discuss how they might approach two of the most perplexing questions of human existence. 8 News Now Chief Investigator George Knapp was invited to participate in that gathering.
Defense expert explains top-secret U.S. UFO investigation
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Dr. James Lacatski proposed, designed, and managed the largest U.S. government-funded UFO investigation in American history. Lacatski had a long and distinguished career as an intelligence analyst and rocket specialist for the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), the Pentagon’s version of the CIA.
How Luis Elizondo emerged as a key part of UFO transparency
Volunteer group tracks ICE activity in Las Vegas area Tedd's Forecast: January 22, 2026 Nate's Forecast: Jan. 22, 2026 Security footage captures stolen Salvation Army bus crashing into a motorcyclists in Las Vegas 2 face murder charges in shooting near Arts District Police ID suspect accused of stealing bus, leading police on chase through Las Vegas, killing motorcyclist Man shot near apartment complex in southwest Las Vegas The 'Ballet Olympics' arrive in Las Vegas Mary Jane's Forecast: Jan.
Once classified docs unveil secret Russian UFO program to collect UFO evidence
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — During George Knapp’s 1993 excursion to Russia, he met and interviewed more than a dozen current and former military officials, as well as prominent scientists, who were familiar with the classified UFO program, which began in 1978 and continued for a decade. Every unit in the USSR’s vast military empire was ordered to investigate and report all UFO sightings or incidents. Thousands of reports flowed into the Ministry of Defense and landed on Sokolov’s desk.
Russian UFO files reveal chilling encounters, near-miss nuclear launch
Russian UFO files reveal chilling encounters, near-miss nuclear launch LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — The largest investigation of UFOs in the history of the world wasn’t a U.S. Government program. It was launched by the former USSR in the late 1970s and produced piles of highly sensitive reports.
Once classified docs unveil secret Russian UFO program to collect UFO evidence
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — During George Knapp’s 1993 excursion to Russia, he met and interviewed more than a dozen current and former military officials, as well as prominent scientists, who were familiar with the classified UFO program, which began in 1978 and continued for a decade. Every unit in the USSR’s vast military empire was ordered to investigate and report all UFO sightings or incidents. Thousands of reports flowed into the Ministry of Defense and landed on Sokolov’s desk.
Russian UFO files reveal chilling encounters, near-miss nuclear launch
Russian UFO files reveal chilling encounters, near-miss nuclear launch LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — The largest investigation of UFOs in the history of the world wasn’t a U.S. Government program. It was launched by the former USSR in the late 1970s and produced piles of highly sensitive reports.
Russian UFO files reveal chilling encounters, near-miss nuclear launch
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — The largest investigation of UFOs in the history of the world wasn’t a U.S. Government program. It was launched by the former USSR in the late 1970s and produced piles of highly sensitive reports.
Russian UFO files reveal chilling encounters, near-miss nuclear launch
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — The largest investigation of UFOs in the history of the world wasn’t a U.S. Government program. It was launched by the former USSR in the late 1970s and produced piles of highly sensitive reports.
New film delves into Bigfoot sightings and origins mystery
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Bigfoot is everywhere these days, at least as the animated spokesperson in ads for a wide range of products and companies. If you dig deep enough, though, you would discover the legend of a huge, hair-covered creature living in the wild has been around for centuries, all over the world, including Nevada. A former lawman has spent the last 17 years searching for the best evidence related to Bigfoot. He has come up with a theory that won’t make anyone comfortable.
New film delves into Bigfoot sightings and origins mystery
New film delves into Bigfoot sightings and origins mystery LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Bigfoot is everywhere these days, at least as the animated spokesperson in ads for a wide range of products and companies. If you dig deep enough, though, you would discover the legend of a huge, hair-covered creature living in the wild has been around for centuries, all over the world, including Nevada. A former lawman has spent the last 17 years searching for the best evidence related to Bigfoot.
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