Koltergeist: True Crime Stories

This episode of Koltergeist is about one couple that seemed to it all—love, success, wealth and a life most people only dream about. But then tragedy struck when the devoted husband and wife were found brutally attacked in their Lake Tahoe mansion. The crime was a shock- There were no signs of forced entry, just the one haunting question investigators were asking: who would want them dead?The layers were peeled back, uncovering a chilling truth: betrayal often comes wearing a familiar face, and sometimes the deadliest motive is money.This is a story of ambition turned deadly, trust shattered by greed, and a murder where love and generosity were no protection at all. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Koltergeist, we unravel the haunting case surrounding Andrea Sneiderman and the brutal, daylight murder of her husband, Rusty Sneiderman. What begins as a seemingly random act of violence quickly spirals into something far more complex—filled with secrecy, unsettling behavior, and relationships that don’t quite add up.As investigators dig deeper, attention turns to Andrea’s inner circle, where one connection in particular raises more questions than answers. Strange actions, including disguises, questionable timelines, and a carefully constructed alibi, begin to surface—blurring the line between obsession and something far more deliberate.https://www.jacksonville.com/story/news/2013/08/20/andrea-sneiderman-gets-5-years-lying-during-investigation-her-husbands/15818949007/https://caselaw.findlaw.com/court/ga-court-of-appeals/1728772.htmlhttps://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1509153923031136 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Koltergeist explores the tragic murder of a young girl, the suspect’s connections to a legedary political dynasty, and the chilling legacy of America’s royal family. Beneath the glamour lies a story of tragedy, murder, and a family that seems cursed by generations of darkness.Murder of Martha Moxley in Greenwich in 1975 shocked the communityJan 21, 2000, page 12 - Stamford Advocate at Newspapers.com™Jan 21, 2000, page 1 - Hartford Courant at Newspapers.com™Jun 08, 2002, page 1 - Greenwich Time at Newspapers.com™Is the 'Kennedy Curse' Real? The Tragic History of America's Political DynastyMurder and Justice: The Case of Martha Moxley - Official Site | OxygenWho Murdered Martha Moxley? Mark Fuhrman Still Believes Michael Skakel Was KillerJul 24, 1968, page 13 - The Tribune at Newspapers.com™Senator Ted Kennedy drives car off bridge at Chappaquiddick Island | July 18, 1969 | HISTORYdocid-32565112.pdfdocid-32287156.pdf Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tonight, we’re diving into the disturbing case known as the Amazon Killer—a story thatbegins with something as ordinary as online orders and digital trust, but quickly spiralsinto something far more sinister. Behind the convenience of everyday life was apredator carefully building control, isolating his victim, and hiding a violent realitybeneath a completely normal exterior. As investigators followed the digital trail, theyuncovered a nightmare of manipulation, captivity, and terror that had been unfoldingright in plain sight. Because sometimes, the most dangerous monsters aren’t strangersin the dark… they’re the ones you’d never think to question.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Todd_Kohlhepphttps://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2025/jan/06/the-amazon-review-killer-review-should-we-really-still-be-watching-this-evil-drivel-in-2025https://www.reviewpartydotcom.com/blog/the-amazon-review-killer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This main line mystery started in 1979 when the nude body of an Upper Merion high school teacher was found in the trunk of her car. After the horrific discovery, investigators began piecing together the evidence and found that behind each lie was someone with something to gain. They uncovered a disturbing trail of deception within the walls of the workplace- affairs, greed, twisted sexual secrets, and phony alibis. But decades later, the most haunting part of this story is still unsolved: two missing children who vanished without a trace.Evidence Surfaces in Reinert case | Death Penalty Information CenterCom. v. Bradfield :: 1986 :: Supreme Court of Pennsylvania Decisions :: Pennsylvania Case Law :: Pennsylvania Law :: U.S. Law :: JustiaUpcoming Netflix Series Inspired by Philadelphia’s Main Line Murders in the 1970s Now in Early Developmentwww2.ca3.uscourts.gov/opinarch/997046.txtAug 31, 1979, page 32 - Philadelphia Daily News at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™Aug 10, 1979, page 3 - The Patriot-News at Newspapers.com™Sep 11, 1979, page 4 - Philadelphia Daily News at Newspapers.com™Aug 04, 1981, page 10 - Philadelphia Daily News at Newspapers.com™Dec 16, 1982, page 5 - Philadelphia Daily News at Newspapers.com™SMITH v. HOLTZ (2000) | FindLawhttps://www.newspapers.com/image/185749305/?match=1&terms=William%20Bradfield Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode dives into the strange and unsettling raid on the home of Afroman — asearch warrant based on serious accusations that left more questions than answers.But what happened after the deputies left may be even more disturbing than the raiditself. Security footage, missing money, and a lawsuit would slowly expose a situationthat felt less like justice… and more like something gone very wrong behind the scenes.https://www.npr.org/2026/03/19/nx-s1-5753563/afroman-lemon-pound-cake-trialhttps://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/19/us/afroman-trial-lemon-cake-verdict.htmlhttps://www.thefp.com/p/afroman-is-an-american-hero Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What started out as a romantic sunrise cruise turned tragic when a beloved husband and father disappeared underneath the dark and frigid waters of Lake Coeur d'Alene in northern Idaho. His death would soon expose a tangled web of deception-and the true character behind a one town’s most recognizable residents.District of Idaho | Lori Isenberg Pleads Guilty to Over $570,000 in Wire Fraud and Federal Program Theft | United States Department of JusticeJul 27, 2018, page A4 - The Idaho Statesman at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™Where Is Lori Isenberg Now? Insider Her Life After Poisoning Her HusbandLori Isenberg Is Convicted of Killing Husband Larry IsenbergNew court documents show North Idaho man may have been murdered | Spokane News | khq.comNow it's Dean's turn | Coeur d'Alene PressJul 27, 2018, page A4 - The Idaho Statesman at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™DIPHENHYDRAMINE OVERDOSE: LIFE-THREATENING COMPLICATIONS OF A WIDELY USED DRUG - CHEST Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this update episode of Koltergeist, we revisit the shocking case of Utah author KouriRichins, who is accused of poisoning her husband, Eric Richins, before writing achildren’s book about grief. Since the initial charges, new evidence, financial motives,and disturbing details have continued to surface, raising even more questions aboutwhat really happened the night Eric died.https://www.sltrib.com/news/2026/02/22/kouri-richins-case-timeline-what/https://www.biography.com/crime/a70499053/who-is-kouri-richins-case-and-murder-trialhttps://www.cnn.com/2026/02/22/us/kouri-richins-utah-trialhttps://people.com/kouri-richins-ex-boyfriend-text-messages-stand-11920351 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For most of his life, he was labeled a throw away, mocked, bullied, criticized, and misunderstood.But beneath the grunge appearance, the suffering, and the addictions, there existed an artist with a brilliant mind, a truly genuine being who never compromised his artistic integrity. Deep down - a really good human. A man whose tragic death seemed like a classic open and shut case. Yet-the story has inconsistencies that are too loud to ignore the doubts refuse to die=and now are louder than ever before. This episode of Koltergeist is dedicated to my fellow Generation Xers-and to the man whose music gave our generation a voice-this is the story of the life and tragic death of Kurt Cobain.Dave Grohl On Smells Like Teen Spirit: “No one thought it was a hit.”One of Kurt Cobain's Final Interviews - Incl. Extremely Rare Footage·      Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love’s Relationship: Look Back at the Singers’ MarriageStrange Love: The Story of Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love | Vanity FairSep 21, 1992, page 62 - The Los Angeles Times at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™Sep 21, 1993, page 39 - The News Tribune at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™Jul 02, 1993, page 22 - The Spokesman-Review at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15510941/Kurt-Cobains-suicide-homicide.htmlKurt Cobain's Downward Spiral: The Last Days of Nirvana's Leaderhttps://cobaincase.com/Azerrad, Michael. Come As You Are: The Story of Nirvana . Crown. Kindle Edition.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In May 2006, 32-year-old Rey Rivera vanished after receiving a mysterious phone call at hisBaltimore home. Eight days later, his body was discovered inside an unused conference room atthe historic Belvedere Hotel, beneath a hole in the roof. His glasses and phone were foundnearby, strangely undamaged.Authorities initially theorized he jumped from the hotel’s rooftop, but questions about thedistance, lack of witnesses, and unexplained circumstances led the medical examiner to rule thecause of death as “undetermined.” Rey’s family believes foul play may have been involved. Hiscase, featured in Netflix’s Unsolved Mysteries (“Mystery on the Rooftop”), remains unsolved.https://www.netflix.com/watch/81029324?trackId=14277283&tctx=-97%2C-97%2C%2C%2C%2C%2C%2C%2C81026055%2CVideo%3A81029324%2CdetailsPageEpisodePlayButtonhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_of_Rey_Riverahttps://www.calebkaltenbach.com/post/the-suspicious-case-of-rey-rivera-and-why-he-matters-part-1https://unsolved.com/gallery/mystery-on-the-rooftop/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Koltergeist delves into the life and crimes of Robert Eugene Brashers-a monster who committed at least eight murders and numerous sexual assaults between 1990 and 1998 across several states and who was just last year finally identified as the man behind the 1991 yogurt shop murders.Oct 06, 2018, page 23 - The Bangor Daily News at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™Oct 12, 2018, page 17 - Greenville Journal at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™Oct 06, 2018, page A3 - The Greenville News at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™Oct 06, 2018, page A3 - The Greenville News at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™Jan 15, 1999, page 2 - Paragould Daily Press at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™ Robert Eugene Brashers - WikipediaJan 15, 1999, page 2 - Paragould Daily Press at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™Nov 23, 1985, page 146 - The Miami Herald at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™Nov 03, 1991, page 18 - The Greenville News at Newspapers.com™ Austin Yogurt Shop Murders: Suspect's daughter speaks after learning the newsY-STR Testing: Enhancing Sexual Assault and Cold Case Workflows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For years, the Turpin family lived quietly in plain sight—while thirteen children werebeing systematically controlled, starved, and isolated behind closed doors. In thisepisode of Koltergeist, we examine the disturbing beliefs, generational abuse, andinstitutional failures that allowed unimaginable cruelty to continue unchecked. This is astory not just about captivity, but about silence, missed warnings, and the single act ofcourage that finally broke it.https://www.amazon.com/Family-Next-Door-Heartbreaking-Extraordinary/dp/1250202132 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Valentine’s Day—a celebration of love. From grand gestures to whispered promises, a holiday devoted to romance. But on February 14, 2013, Reeva Steenkamp wasn’t struck by Cupid’s arrow - she was struck by gunfire. Four hollow-point bullets tore into her body through a locked bathroom door. The trigger was pulled by the man who said he loved her. Was it a deliberate act of violence… or a catastrophic case of mistaken identity as he claimed?In this episode of Koltergeist, we dive into the details: the courtship, the tragedy, and the aftermath of the death of Reeva Steenkamp at the hands of the Olympian known worldwide as the Bladerunner-Oscar Pistorius. Oscar Pistorius Fast Facts | CNNReeva Steenkamp’s Family Speaks Out After Oscar Pistorius’ ReleaseFibular Hemimelia | Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA)Oscar Pistorius trial: Evidence - BBC NewsHotlines - National Center on Domestic and Sexual ViolenceFacebook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Run, Hide, Repeat, a family’s quiet life is slowly consumed by an invisible threat—break-ins that don’t make sense, warnings that arrive too late, and a growing belief that someone powerful is watching their every move. As fear tightens its grip, the family is forced into constant flight, changing homes, identities, and routines in a desperate attempt to stay ahead of danger. But as the story unfolds, unsettling cracks begin to appear in the narrative itself, raising an even more disturbing question: what if the danger wasn’t lurking outside the walls at all, but living inside the story they came to believe?Episode Sources:https://www.amazon.com/Run-Hide-Repeat-Fugitive-Childhood/dp/0735233225 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Koltergeist, we examine the cases of three women whose tragic deaths were all sudden, heartbreaking, and shrouded in mystery. All three ended in the same way—with a body found at the bottom of a trash chute without a logical explanation of how it got there. But the circumstances of each are vastly different and fiercely contested. Were these deaths unfortunate mishaps, misjudgments, or something far more sinister? The evidence doesn’t quite align with any logical answer. Episode Sources:Remains Found in N.Y.C. Garbage Chute Belonged to Missing Woman: PoliceDec 03, 2023, page 36 - Daily News at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™Penn State History Lesson: The Death Of Justine Gross | Onward StateFull autopsy report for PSU student who fell down trash chute subject of court battlePetition update · Received Justine's Toxicology and Autopsy Reports · Change.org · Change.orgObituary information for Justine Marie Elizabeth Gross https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/twincities/name/jaclyn-elmquist-obituary?id=54161644 Feb 26, 2021, page 14 - Daily News at Newspapers.com™Death of woman found at bottom of Manhattan trash chute could have been murder, forensic pathologist says – Crime OnlineSearch Lara Prychodko Obituaries and Funeral ServicesWrongful death lawsuit filed 5 years after Lara Prychodko was found dead at the bottom of Manhattan trash chuteThe mysterious death of Lara Prychodko | FOX 5 New York  Exclusive | Lara Prychodko had affair with wealthy CEO before death | New York Post Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kristil Krug was found dead in the garage of her suburban Colorado home, her body bearing clear signs of violence that immediately ruled out any natural cause. What should have been an ordinary evening ended in a brutal crime that left investigators searching for answers amid a web of contradictions, half-truths, and unsettling behavior from those closest to her. As police pieced together timelines and examined troubling details from Kristil’s marriage, her home life, and the hours leading up to her death, it became clear that nothing about the scene was as straightforward as it appeared. In a case marked by deception, silence, and unanswered questions, the truth of who killed Kristil Krug would remain obscured far longer than anyone expected.Episode Sources:https://apnews.com/article/0658e5bac14daa0aba8a18a9330bb6d4https://apnews.com/article/af75475b55865fd03ecc14452b1f157ahttps://people.com/colorado-man-convicted-killing-wife-stalking-her-impersonating-ex-boyfriend-11718201https://www.the-independent.com/news/world/americas/crime/kristil-krug-daniel-murder-denver-stalking-court-update-b2727262.htmlhttps://www.crimeonline.com/2024/01/02/cops-colorado-man-murders-his-wife-after-pretending-to-be-stalker-ex-for-months/https://www.ksat.com/news/2025/04/18/colorado-man-gets-life-in-prison-for-killing-his-wife-after-posing-as-ex-boyfriend-and-stalking-her/https://nypost.com/2025/04/04/us-news/colorado-man-posed-as-wifes-ex-then-murdered-her-cops/https://www.reddit.com/r/Dateline/comments/1nulqyq Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Some of the most devastating intersections of mental illness and violence occur in cases that are unthinkable-when parents killed their children while experiencing episodes of active acute psychosis.In this episode of Koltergeist, we discuss just 3 of the many stories of fractured reality—where delusions overrode instinct. We examine what psychosis looks like in deeply unwell parents and how when symptoms go unrecognized or misunderstood, they can lead to irreversible outcomes-cases of filicide-where a parent kills their own child.Mental illness does not discriminate by age, race, gender, income, or education. It can take root in any home, unravel any mind, and alter anyone’s life. These cases will challenge our most basic ideas about intent, culpability, compassion, and justice.These are stories of Lindsay Clancy, Romechia Sims, and Richard Greist.Episode Sources:Oct 26, 2023, page A5 - The Republican at Newspapers.com™Oct 16, 2024, page B4 - The Boston Globe at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™Lindsay Clancy's Husband Speaks Out After Killings, Says Wife Isn't a 'Monster'Lindsay Clancy hearing weighs psych records and reporter's notes | Court TVPostpartum Psychosis - StatPearls - NCBI BookshelfSep 15, 2015, page 4 - The McDowell News at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™Apr 23, 2016, page A2 - Lexington Herald-Leader at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™Jun 07, 2015, page A25 - The News Journal at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™May 11, 1978, page 1 - The Morning Press at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™Jan 23, 1980, page 35 - Philadelphia Daily News at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™Aug 03, 2022, page B3 - The Philadelphia Inquirer at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™May 12, 1978, page 1 - The Reporter at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2787197 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Description:In May 2010, the University of Virginia was shaken to its core when star lacrosse player Yeardley Love was found dead in her off-campus apartment—her bright future cut short by someone she once trusted. In this episode, Koltergeist unravels the volatile relationship between Yeardley and her ex-boyfriend, George Huguely V, tracing the warning signs, the privilege, and the explosive rage that ended in tragedy. A case that began as campus gossip became a national reckoning… and its echoes still linger in Charlottesville.Sources:https://www.29news.com/2025/05/07/one-love-continues-advocacy-15-years-after-death-uva-lacrosse-player/https://www.29news.com/2025/05/07/one-love-continues-advocacy-15-years-after-death-uva-lacrosse-player/https://washingtonian.com/2011/06/01/george-huguely-and-yeardley-love-love-death-and-lacrosse/https://www.amazon.com/All-American-Murder-Amber-Hunt/dp/0312541066 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Description:On Christmas Eve, 1985, the frozen body of a young boy clad only in blue pajamas was found abandoned in a snowswept ditch along a stretch of rural Nebraska highway. With no clues to his identity, he became known among the locals as “little boy blue”. Nearly 2 years later, authorities found his family and uncovered a trail of dead bodies and sordid tale of secrets and lies that shattered a peaceful Amish community. Sources:Jul 19, 1988, page 15 - Austin American-Statesman at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™30 years later, two Durango murders remain unsolved - The Durango HeraldSwartzentruber Amish: The Most Traditional Group - Amish AmericaRe-Examining the Death of Amish Woman Ida StutzmanFather jailed in death of 'Little Boy Blue' - UPI ArchivesOlsen, Gregg. The Amish Wife: Unraveling the Lies, Secrets, and Conspiracy That Let a Killer Go Free (p. 121). Thomas & Mercer. Kindle Edition. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Description:On Christmas Eve 2008, a man dressed as Santa Claus rang the doorbell of a family home in Covina, California. Minutes later, the house was engulfed in flames, and a holiday gathering turned into one of the most horrifying massacres in modern true crime history. In this episode, Koltergeist unpacks the deception, the rage, and the chilling premeditation behind Bruce Pardo’s violent rampage—and the unanswered questions that still linger long after the smoke cleared.Then, On Christmas Day, 1929, a North Carolina tobacco farmer wiped out his entire family—just days after forcing them into an expensive, unexplained portrait. Nearly a century later, the Lawson murders remain one of America’s most chilling holiday mysteries. In this episode, Koltergeist unravels the strange behavior, whispered secrets, and unanswered questions behind a crime that still haunts the foothills… and the photograph that warned no one.Sources:https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=6530779&page=1https://abc7.com/post/covina-christmas-shooting-survivor-hopes-walkout-sends-a-message/3217340/?userab=abc_web_player-460*variant_a_abc_control-1900%2Cotv_web_player-461*variant_a_otv_control-1902%2Cotv_web_content_rec-445*variant_a_control-1849%2Chp_banner-426*variant_a_control-1777https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lawson_family_murdershttps://www.dncr.nc.gov/blog/2016/12/25/story-lawson-family Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Description:New Year’s Eve is supposed to be one of the most electric nights of the year—champagne, countdowns, and the glittering promise of a clean slate. But for Ana Walshe, a striking, ambitious mother of three with a successful real estate career, it was the last night anyone would ever see her alive.Her husband, Brian Walshe, carried a past stitched together with lies, fraud, and theft. Investigators uncovered a trail of incriminating evidence, including a string of chilling internet searches that painted a horrifying picture of the death and dismemberment of Ana Walshe.Sources:Friend of Ana Walshe reacts to bombshell guilty pleas on first day of jury selection – Boston 25 NewsJan 09, 2023, page A9 - The Boston Globe at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™Brian Walshe: Court docs reveal struggles with mental health, relationship between Ana & his mother – Boston 25 NewsWalshe pleaded guilty in 2021 to wire fraud, interstate transportation for a scheme to defraudAna Walshe, whose husband is accused of killing her, had an affair before she went missing, court documents show | CNNBrian Walshe and Ana Walshe: A timeline of the case | CNNFamily Of Massachusetts Mom Helped Alleged Killer Husband Brian Walshe Stay Out Of PrisonNew details emerge from arrest documents in Ana Walshe caseBrian Walshe trial live stream: Day 2 of trial, Google searches – NBC BostonAt Brian Walshe's murder trial, attention turns to his wife's affair before she disappeared | AP News Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Description:For years, a quiet house in France hid a truth no one dared to imagine. Behind its neat shutters and well-tended garden lived a family that seemed unremarkable — polite, private, ordinary.But then one day there was a discovery so disturbing, it would force an entire community to confront the darkness lurking just beneath the surface.In this episode of Koltergeist, we explore a tale of deception, identity, and the lies so unbelievable you would wish they were a nightmare. Episode Sources:https://www.amazon.com/Ill-Never-Call-Him- https://www.courthousenews.com/i-was-looking-for-someone-to-abuse-my-wife-dominique-pelicot-takes-the-stand-in-french-mass-rape-appeal/https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/06/world/europe/pelicot-trial-timeline.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Description:Joseph Shymanski was a photographer known for capturing beauty through his lens — fine art, celebrity portraits, and important events. But behind the camera, his own life had fallen out of focus. After surviving a contentious divorce and fierce custody battle, his life was taken on a quiet afternoon by someone he never saw coming. He was shot, dismembered, and burned. This is the story of the photographer who met a brutal end… and whose murder leaves us with more questions than answers.Episode Sources:What Happened to Joe Shymanski? A Timeline of TragedyCommonwealth of PA v. Brandon R. Holbrook No. No. CP-38-CR-0002100-2014"48 Hours" contributor finds herself in uncharted territory investigating D.C.-area murder - CBS NewsSep 29, 2023, page Z14 - Maryland Independent at Newspapers.comFamily of murdered photographer wonders if his killer acted aloneJoseph Shymanski Obituary (1971 - 2023) - Washington, DC - The Washington PostAll the men — Heather's StoryWatch 48 Hours Season 38 Episode 5: My Uncle Joe's Murder - Full show on CBS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Description:It was supposed to be a normal family holiday — a long weekend filled with turkey, laughter, and the promise of new beginnings. But when relatives couldn’t reach Joel and Lisa Guy after Thanksgiving dinner, police arrived at their Knoxville home to find something out of a nightmare. The house was warm — too warm — and what they discovered inside would haunt investigators forever.Who could commit something so calculated, so cold, and yet so personal? And what exactly happened between a quiet son and the parents who seemed to give him everything?In this episode of Koltergeist, we unravel a Thanksgiving that turned into a crime scene, and the chilling story of a family’s darkest secret hidden behind closed doors.Episode Sources:https://www.tncourts.gov/sites/default/files/OpinionsPDFVersion/Majority%20Opinion%20-%20State%20of%20Tennessee%20v.%20Joel%20Michael%20Guy%2C%20Jr.%20-%20E2021-00560-CCA-R3-CD.pdfhttps://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/neworleans/news/press-releases/knoxville-fugitive-arrested-by-fbi-for-the-alleged-murder-of-his-parentshttps://www.courttv.com/tag/joel-michael-guy/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode DescriptionRobert Roberson has been condemned on death row for over two decades—convicted of the unthinkable crime of murdering of his own daughter. The case seemed clear. The timeline, the testimony, the science—at first it all seemed to point in one direction.But what if it was wrong? Recently, new medical evidence has surfaced. Evidence that challenges the very foundation of the prosecution’s story and calls into question what really happened the night Nikki Curtis died… and whether her father ever should’ve been charged at all.This isn’t just a story about a conviction. It’s about what happens when grief, medicine, and justice intersect.Episode Sources:Nikki Curtis Autopsy Report.pdf https://innocenceproject.org/news/what-to-know-about-robert-roberson-on-texas-death-row-for-a-crime-that-never-occurred/FAMILY CODE CHAPTER 32. CONSENT TO TREATMENT OF CHILD BY NON-PARENT OR CHILD24A349 Roberson v. Texas (10/17/2024)Difficulties Encountered by Forensic Pathologists in Proving Abusive Head Trauma in Children: A Case Report - PMCLegislative Reference Library | Current Issues | Related documents54485.pdf Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Boston, 1989, a young couple’s late-night drive ended in a shocking act of violence that left the city gripped with fear. A brutal attack, a frantic call for help, and a story that seemed too horrific to question. But as investigators dug deeper, cracks began to form in the tale that had captured the nation’s attention. Was this truly the work of a faceless predator lurking in the shadows—or was the danger far closer than anyone dared to imagine?Sources:https://www.hbomax.com/shows/murder-in-boston-roots-rampage-reckoning/68af2b13-0855-4d8f-aca4-040802d63fcbhttps://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2024/02/could-troubling-police-media-response-to-stuart-murder-happen-again/https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/january-3/the-husband-did-it-the-controversial-stuart-case Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was June 1962, the last day of school in Pittsburgh—a day buzzing with summertime excitement. But the celebration was short-lived when 10-year-old Mary Ann Verdecchia vanished without a trace. Her disappearance shattered the neighborhood’s sense of safety and still stands as one of America’s oldest unsolved missing-child cases.Sources:On Purpose | Pitt Magazine | University of PittsburghJun 20, 1962, page 1 - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette at Newspapers.comJun 14, 1962, page 25 - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette at Newspapers.comApr 20, 1991, page 7 - The Pittsburgh Press at Newspapers.comAmazon.com: Therese Rocco: Pittsburgh's First Female Assistant Police Chief eBook : Rocco, Therese: Kindle StoreNov 26, 1959, page 18 - The Pittsburgh Press at Newspapers.come  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this haunted night, we open the door to some of the darkest Halloween tales ever told. From Daniel LaPlante, whose twisted crimes blurred the line between horror and reality, to the so-called “Candyman Killer,” whose name still sends shivers down parents’ spines, we unravel stories where trick-or-treating turned into terror. Alongside them, other eerie Halloween horrors remind us that sometimes the scariest monsters aren’t in costumes—they’re hiding in plain sight.Sources:https://www.hcdistrictclerk.com/Common/HistoricalDocument/pdf/COTM_Oct_2021.pdfhttps://outliermedia.org/devils-night-detroit-history-coleman-a-young-mike-duggan/https://darkdowneast.com/daniellaplante/https://www.talesfromtheunderworld.com/p/threes-a-crowd-the-cold-blooded-halloweenhttps://www.findagrave.com/memorial/61058958/william_edward-liske Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Scranton mechanic Frank Osellanie had a dark and predatory past that culminated with the brutal assault and murder of 9-year-old Renee Waddle. But can investigators tie him to other unsolved cases? In this episode we delve into four other unsolved cases of the Electric City-the murder of Laureen Finn and the disappearances of Michelle Jolene Lakey, Shelley Diane Luty, and Joanne Williams.References:Dec 04, 1980, page 4 - Indiana Gazette at Newspapers.comDec 13, 1987, page 1 - Scrantonian Tribune at Newspapers.comDec 17, 1978, page 3 - The Times-Tribune at Newspapers.comSep 09, 1986, page 3 - The Tribune at Newspapers.comAug 29, 2010, page A3 - The Times-Tribune at Newspapers.comMay 24, 1989, page 29 - Scrantonian Tribune at Newspapers.comMay 15, 1989, page 4 - The Times-Tribune at Newspapers.comJun 11, 2007, page A8 - The Times-Tribune at Newspapers.comJun 08, 1989, page 3 - The Times-Tribune at Newspapers.comJun 17, 1989, page 5 - The Tribune at Newspapers.comOct 21, 1989, page 1 - Scrantonian Tribune at Newspapers.comJul 05, 1989, page 4 - The Times-Tribune at Newspapers.comAug 04, 1990, page 3 - The Times-Tribune at Newspapers.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore the terrifying night when Ashley Reeves became the target of a shocking attack. The details of the assault are chilling, the investigation is relentless, and the community is left reeling. Through interviews, court records, and a careful reconstruction of events, we unravel the story of a young woman caught in a nightmare—without revealing until the very end what happened to her.References: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1558059/https://www.stlpr.org/delete1/2007-06-15/shelton-pleads-guilty-is-sentenced-to-20-yearshttps://www.bnd.com/news/local/crime/article287938355.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Haunted attraction profit on fear. But sometimes the most chilling horrors don’t come with actors or props—they come from the truth-which can be far darker than anything scripted. In this episode of Koltergeist, we reveal the horrifying truth behind Pennhurst Asylum-a place where disabled people were stripped of their dignity, dehumanized, and endured unimaginable horrors. References:Oct 23, 1965, page 1 - The Mercury at Newspapers.comOct 22, 1965, page 14 - The Mercury at Newspapers.comOct 25, 1965, page 23 - The Mercury at Newspapers.comWelcome to the Pennhurst Memorial & Preservation AllianceSuffer The Little ChildrenYoungberg v. Romeo, 457 US 307 (1982) - Disability Justicehttps://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/465/89/The MUI Reporting Hotline for your county board of developmental disabilities,Call 1-800-617-6733 for the DODD Abuse and Neglect Hotline during business hours,or report abuse or neglect onlineIf you believe that you or someone else was discriminated against based on a disability, you can file an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) complaint at File a Complaint | ADA.gov Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we dive into the twisted case of Ari Squire, a man whose actions left investigators scrambling for answers. From mysterious disappearances to shocking clues that emerged in unexpected places, we follow the investigation as it unravels a story of deception, obsession, and danger. With cryptic messages, failed schemes, and a chilling web of manipulation, this episode explores a case that kept everyone guessing—right up until the truth was finally uncovered.References:https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna31107096https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2008-mar-16-adna-fakedeath16-story.htmlhttps://6abc.com/archive/7299425/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When a young mother is killed in what looks like a hit-and-run, it seems at first like a tragic accident. Over the next three decades, the horrifying crimes of a monster are revealed. And at the center of it all is a story that proves some spirits refuse to be broken.References:Jun 22, 1990, page 1 - Tulsa World at Newspapers.comOct 12, 1997, page 16 - The Daily Oklahoman at Newspapers.comNov 19, 1994, page 3 - The Courier-Journal at Newspapers.comNov 02, 1997, page 32 - Tampa Bay Times at Newspapers.comJul 18, 2022, page A9 - The Vancouver Sun at Newspapers.comApr 12, 2016, page 2 - The Daily Oklahoman at Newspapers.comBirkbeck, M. (2014). A beautiful child. Berkley Books. Birkbeck, M. (2018). Finding Sharon. Summerville.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

**This is a re-released episode from January 6, 2025Episode SummaryThe Powell podcast episode of Koltergeist dives into the tragic and mysterious disappearance of Susan Powell, a devoted mother of two, and the disturbing revelations about her husband, Josh Powell. We explore Susan's struggle in an allegedly controlling relationship, her fears for her safety, and her efforts to seek help, including meeting with a divorce lawyer. The episode sheds light on Josh’s concerning behavior, as reported by a previous girlfriend, and follows the harrowing timeline leading up to Susan’s vanishing, raising chilling questions that remain unanswered.References: https://allthatsinteresting.com/susan-powell
https://abcnews.go.com/US/susan-powel...https://kutv.com/news/local/timeline-...https://www.scribd.com/read/224326208...https://youtu.be/97vdLlchb3E?si=GjO_XVNvb7WfvsKBhttps://www.ksl.com/article/16985924/steven-powells-musical-website-possibly-dedicated-to-susan-cox-powell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

*This is a re-released episode from January 2nd, 2025Episode Summary11-year-old Terrence Bowers Jr's family continues to seek justice for his 1970 murder. What began as an exciting camping weekend for the scouts of troop 275 ended in tragedy when an unknown coward took Terry's life in the middle of the night. Several theories emerged, but no one paid the price for taking this young boy's life almost 55 years ago. In this episode, you will learn about the details surrounding the night of Terry's murder, the involvement of two very powerful organizations, and how you can help Terry finally get his turn for justice.References: RAINN | The nation's largest anti-sexual violence organizationTrooper 1st Class Chadwick S. ROBERTS Troop J -Criminal Investigation Assessment Officer & Amber Alert / MEPA Alert Designee 2099 Lincoln Hwy East, Lancaster, PA 17062 Desk: (717) 290-1971 | Cell: (717) 603-2483 Station: (717) 299-7650 | Fax: (717) 299-7663Philadelphia Grand Jury ReportComplete reference list for this episode is available upon request. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Mark Weinberger was known as a rising star in the world of sinus surgery—handsome, wealthy, and wildly successful. But when he vanished from a luxury yacht in Greece during his wife’s birthday trip, the mystery quickly unraveled into something far more sinister. Behind the designer suits and glossy reputation was a trail of ruined lives, misdiagnoses, and insurance fraud. As investigators closed in, Weinberger did what he did best—he disappeared.References: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Weinbergerhttps://law.justia.com/cases/indiana/court-of-appeals/2007/45a05-0606-cv-337-1.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When a woman was found brutally murdered in England, investigators quickly found a prime suspect in her ex-boyfriend. But questions remain if a second look at old evidence might point to a different killer and perhaps expose a grave miscarriage of justice -or if they had the right guy from the start.References:Kevin Nunn has spent 20 years in prison for a horrifying murder. Was he wrongly convicted? | Criminal Cases Review Commission | The GuardianPublic meeting in Bury St Edmunds - Hickman & Rose Solicitors - LondonKevin Nunn (Claimant) The Chief Constable of the Suffolk Constabulary (Defendant) The Crown Prosecution Service (Interested Party) - vLex United KingdomMurder trial hears carpet evidence | East Anglian Daily Times'Evil' killer jailed for 22 years | East Anglian Daily TimesFitness fanatic may have been murdered jogging by the riverThe case of Kevin Nunn – insidetime & insideinformation"A Town & Country Murder" Dawn Walker (TV Episode 2013) - IMDb Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When a young mother is found murdered in her home, her grieving husband tells police he acted in self-defense—killing a strange man who had been bothering his wife just days earlier. At first, it seems like a tragic case of a hero protecting his family. But as the years go by, disturbing questions begin to surface. What really happened that afternoon in Springfield, Illinois? And was this home invasion everything it appeared to be?References:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Wingerhttps://abcnews.go.com/US/families-torn-killer-dad-reflect-years-believed-hero/story?id=77097895https://www.sj-r.com/story/news/crime/2021/04/15/20-20-tv-program-interviews-mark-wingers-ex-wife-kids/7220064002/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the chaos of war-torn Iraq, a young American soldier was found dead under suspicious circumstances—and her family refuses to believe the army’s explanation- alleging that the truth has been buried under red tape, silence, and fear. This case doesn’t just tell LaVena’s story—it screams the truth about the silent, brutal struggles of women in uniform. This episode is dedicated to Private First Class Johnson and with sincere appreciation for all the brave men and women of the US armed forces.References:LaVena Johnson: Army Still Calls Grisly Rape and Murder 'Suicide' - Salem-News.ComCRC_Johnson-Lavena.pdfThe Silent Truth Documentary--aka--The LaVena Johnson Murder Cover-Up | HuffPost Latest NewsMar 05, 2006, page 35 - Columbia Daily Tribune at Newspapers.comSuicide or Murder? Three Years After the Death of Pfc. LaVena Johnson in Iraq, Her Parents Continue Their Call for a Congressional Investigation | Democracy Now!A death with two stories evidence - Los Angeles Times A drunken night in Iraq, a soldier left behind | The Seattle TimesVeterans Crisis LineThe Silent Truth: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1778359#:~:text=This%20is%20a%20documentary%20about%20PFC%20LaVena%20Johnson%27s,Johnson%20is%20found%20dead%2C%20shot%20in%20the%20head. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Connecticut mother Jennifer Dulos vanished in 2019, suspicion quickly turned to her estranged husband, Fotis. This episode unpacks the twisted web of privilege, betrayal, and a bitter custody battle that ended in tragedy. Based on Rich Cohen’s gripping book, we explore the mystery behind Jennifer’s disappearance—and the secrets that came to light after she was gone.ABC NewsSource:https://www.amazon.com/Murder-Dollhouse-Jennifer-Dulos-Story/dp/0374608067 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 1989, the sudden death of an infant left investigators pointing the finger at the one person meant to protect him—his mother. Nearly three decades later, in 2018, a healthy young mom is found dead. Each case tells a very different story—and while they both looked like open-and-shut cases… both unraveled into things far more complex.References:Husband poisoned wife, tainted daughter's drink: ProsecutorsDec 24, 2019, page A6 - The News and Observer at Newspapers.comApr 01, 2021, page A3 - The Charlotte Observer at Newspapers.comInside the Case of Paramedic Accused of Poisoning Wife with Eye DropsAccused killer now charged with harassing witnesses in caseProteins Are the Workhorses of the Cell: Misdiagnosis of a Metabolic Malady - Genetic Twists of Fate - NCBI BookshelfComplete atrioventricular block due to ingestion of Visine eye drops - PMCSACHDNC Recommended Uniform Screening Panel1Patricia Stallings  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This captivating truecrime episode explores the shocking divergence within the Stayner family. It begins with young Steven Stayner’s abduction at age 7 and his courageous escape seven years later—saving a fellow captive along the way. But the story takes a darker turn, as his older brother Cary grows up overlooked and troubled, eventually becoming the notorious “Yosemite Park Killer.” The hosts trace childhood trauma, media obsession, and familial neglect, culminating in Cary’s chilling crimes near Yosemite National Park in 1999. The episode highlights how two brothers, bound by blood, ended up on dramatically different paths.References:https://abcnews.go.com/US/steven-cary-stayner-tale-brothers-horror-heroism/story?id=60529944https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2022/apr/20/there-was-a-lot-of-torment-the-family-who-endured-two-true-stories Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 2007, the world was rocked by the shocking revelation that a respected and decorated professional wrestler had murdered his wife and young son before taking his own life inside their suburban Georgia home.As the story unfolded, it exposed a deeply tragic mix of steroid and drug abuse, unprocessed grief, chronic head trauma, and a volatile home life. Together, these forces created a perfect storm—one that led to a devastating mental collapse and the loss of three lives.References:Autopsyfiles.org - Chris Benoit Autopsy ReportAutopsyfiles.org - Nancy Benoit Autopsy ReportBenoit case - CID Case file - REDACTED.pdf - Google DriveChris & Nancy: The True Story of the Benoit Murder-Suicide and Pro Wrestling's Cocktail of Death: Muchnick, Irvin: 9781550229028: Amazon.com: BooksThe Chris Benoit 911 CallsOriginal redacted 2007 Chris Benoit police files : r/masskillersWrestler Chris Benoit's doctor gets 10 years in prison - ESPN05-12-09.pdf Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When several women are lured to Boston hotel rooms by a charming med student offering massages, only to be robbed—or worse—the city begins to unravel a chilling pattern. Behind the polished smile and prestigious future of Philip Markoff lies a secret life fueled by obsession, violence, and a terrifying double identity. In this episode of Koltergeist, we dive into the twisted case of the so-called "Craigslist Killer"—a man who seemed to have it all, yet harbored a darkness no one saw coming.References:https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1668674/https://www.bostonherald.com/2010/08/16/the-craigslist-killing-a-timeline/https://www.biography.com/crime-figure/philip-markoff Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 1996, the peace of Shenandoah National Park was shattered by a gruesome discovery: the bodies of Lollie Winans and Julie Williams, two young, adventurous women with serious outdoor skills, were found brutally murdered near their campsite. They weren’t just victims—they were fearless, badass trailblazers who felt at home in the wild. As the investigation unfolded, it exposed more than just a killer. It revealed a deeper darkness: a culture of hate, fear, and prejudice, and more than one predator lurking in the shadows. But this story doesn’t end in silence—it ends in karma, long overdue and fiercely deserved.References:Jun 05, 1996, page 15 - The Grand Rapids Press at Newspapers.comApr 12, 2002, page A1 - Richmond Times-Dispatch at Newspapers.comApr 11, 2002, page 7 - St. Cloud Times at Newspapers.com Jan 01, 2006, page 2 - Potomac News at Newspapers.com Jun 05, 1996, page 1 - The Patriot-News at Newspapers.comSep 19, 1996, page 1 - Culpeper Star-Exponent at Newspapers.comApr 11, 2002, page 7 - St. Cloud Times at Newspapers.com40 Years of Empowering Women Travelers | Adventures in Good CompanyJul 20, 2003, page 7 - The Roanoke Times at Newspapers.comTrailed: One Woman's Quest to Solve the Shenandoah Murders: Miles, Kathryn: 9781616209094: Amazon.com: Books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After beloved Montana outdoorsman Bill Stout is found shot to death in his home, a bizarre web of anonymous emails, nighttime prowlers, and escalating threats begins to surface. Was his brief affair to blame—or was something far more sinister lurking closer to home? In this gripping episode of Koltergeist, we unravel a chilling mystery of obsession, betrayal, and a haunting trail that led to murder.References:https://www.courtlistener.com/opinion/889396/state-v-stout/?q=&court_fla=on&order_by=dateFiled+deschttps://mail.murderpedia.org/female.S/s/stout-anne.htm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Father’s Day 1991, a brutal and calculated crime unfolded inside the United Bank Tower in Denver, Colorado. Disguised and heavily armed, a man carried out one of the most violent bank robberies in American history. Within minutes, he gunned down four unarmed security guards—execution-style—and vanished with a bag of stolen cash. Despite multiple suspects and years of investigation, no one has ever been convicted. The killer walked away—and remains free to this day.References:Murders in the Bank Vault: The Father's Day Massacre and the Trial of James King: Phil H. Goodstein: Amazon.com: BooksJun 19, 1991, page 14 - The Daily Sentinel at Newspapers.comInside the investigation into the 1991 Colorado Father’s Day bank massacreInside the investigation into the 1991 Colorado Father’s Day bank massacreUnsolved: The Father's Day Bank Massacre and the Trial of James King - NewsBreakJul 07, 1991, page 3 - St. Louis Post-Dispatch at Newspapers.comJul 05, 1991, page 14 - Morning Sentinel at Newspapers.comYou tube: From the Archives: Father's Day Bank Massacre | Teller IDs James King Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode SummaryIn this episode of Koltergeist, we unravel the disturbing case of Jenelle Potter—a woman whose lies and online manipulation led to the murders of Billy Payne and Billie Jean Hayworth in a quiet Tennessee town. Jenelle, socially isolated and obsessed with online drama, created a fake CIA agent to convince her parents she was in danger. Her father, Buddy Potter, acted on that deception, with devastating consequences. This twisted story of catfishing, control, and murder shows just how deadly digital lies can become.Episode Sources:https://law.justia.com/cases/tennessee/court-of-criminal-appeals/2019/e2015-02261-cca-r3-cd.htmlhttps://abcnews.go.com/US/social-media-feud-led-couples-murder/story?id=108711016 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Summary:A dashing Hollywood icon with a shadowy secret was murdered and his killer was never brought to justice. They said he had it all—fame, fortune, and a smile that made headlines. But behind the velvet ropes and silver screens, this actor carried a secret no one was meant to uncover. This episode delves into the mysterious and tragic death of Hogan’s Heroes star Bob Crane.Sources for this episode are available upon request. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode SummaryIn this episode of Koltergeist, we explore the tragic stories of Bianca Devins and Grace Emmie Rose Millane—two young women whose lives were cut short by men they trusted. Bianca, a 17-year-old rising social media personality from New York, was brutally murdered by a friend she met online, with images of the crime shared across the internet in a chilling intersection of violence and digital culture. Grace, a 21-year-old British backpacker traveling alone in New Zealand, was killed by a man she met on a dating app during what was supposed to be a night out in Auckland. Through these cases, we examine the dark side of internet relationships, the dangers young women face both online and offline, and the broader implications for justice and online safety.Episode Sources:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murder_of_Bianca_Devinshttps://www.cbsnews.com/news/bianca-devins-murder-violent-images-psychological-terrorism-48-hours/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-essex-63627166https://www.cnn.com/2020/12/21/asia/grace-millane-killer-named-intl-hnk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.