Shows
KoltergeistA Military Mystery: The Death of LaVena JohnsonIn 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...2025-08-1129 minKoltergeistMurder in the Dollhouse – The Jennifer Dulos CaseWhen 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.2025-08-0443 minKoltergeistPoison or Pathology? The tragic deaths of Ryan Stallings and Stacy Robinson HunsuckerIn 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 Par...2025-07-2832 minKoltergeistThe Stayner BrothersThis 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.Referenc...2025-07-2144 minKoltergeistWrestling With Demons: The Chris Benoit Family TragedyIn 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 - Na...2025-07-1443 minKoltergeist"The Craigslist Killer" The story of Philip MarkoffWhen 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...2025-07-0734 minKoltergeistShenandoah National Park: The murders of Laura "Lollie" Winans and Julianne "Julie" WilliamsIn 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 fier...2025-06-3028 minKoltergeistThe Email, the Gun, and the Mountain WomanAfter 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 Ho...2025-06-2338 minKoltergeistFather's Day Bank MassacreOn 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. Goods...2025-06-1636 minKoltergeistFatal Fiction: Jenelle Potter’s Deadly LieEpisode 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...2025-06-0930 minKoltergeistFinal Curtain: The Murder of Hogan’s Heroes star Bob CraneEpisode 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.2025-06-0239 minKoltergeistDeadly Connections: Bianca Devins & Grace Millane 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 n...2025-05-2627 minKoltergeistBeyond the Badge: The Murder of Teresa Mae McAbeeEpisode SummaryOn an ordinary spring evening, a little girl walked to the corner store to buy a pencil and was never seen alive again. The last person to see her was someone she was supposed to trust-a man in uniform patrolling the small town of Mascotte, Fl. This is the story of Teresa Mae McAbee, who was brutalized and murdered in 1987 by a small-town cop named James Duckett.Episode sources are available upon request. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-05-1929 minKoltergeistSuitcase Killer, The Case of Melanie McGuireIn this episode, we delve into the infamous “Suitcase Murder” case of Melanie McGuire, a New Jersey fertility clinic nurse convicted of killing her husband, Bill McGuire, in 2004. After shooting him and dismembering his body, Melanie placed the remains into suitcases that later washed up in the Chesapeake Bay. Despite her claims of innocence, a mountain of circumstantial evidence—including surveillance footage, suspicious internet searches, and forensic links—led to her conviction. We explore the complex double life she was living and the chilling details that unraveled the truth behind the crime.References:https://www...2025-05-1240 minKoltergeistThe DC Mansion Murders: The Savopolous Family and Veralicia FigueroaIn 2015, one of the most horrifying home invasion murders occurred in our nation’s capital, Washington, DC. The murder of Savopolous family and their housekeeper, Veralicia Figueroashocked the nation, due to the brutality and senselessness of the crime. This story is a harsh reminder that no amount of money or prestige can guarantee safety from violence, whether random attacks or premeditated crimes. References: DC Mansion Murders: Read the Savopoulos Family's Touching ObituaryMay 21, 2015, page 3 - The Call-Leader at Newspapers.comAfter mansion killings verdict, a look at evidence jury considered (PHOT...2025-05-0532 minKoltergeistFetal Abduction, Crimes Against MothersIn this episode, we explore two shocking cases of fetal abduction—where pregnant women were targeted by women desperate to steal their unborn babies. First, we recount the 2015 attack on Michelle Wilkins, who was lured by Dynel Lane under the guise of a Craigslist baby clothes sale, only to be brutally attacked and have her baby cut from her womb. Then, we examine the infamous case of Lisa Montgomery, who strangled Bobbie Jo Stinnett in 2004 and stole her baby, later attempting to pass the child off as her own. Both stories reveal the darkest extremes of obsession—and the stre...2025-04-2821 minKoltergeistCaught on Camera: The Kelsey Smith CaseKelsey Ann Smith DOB May 3, 1989On a warm summer evening in 2007, a young woman ran a quick errand in broad daylight-and met a terrible fate. Through the investigation, glimpses of Kelsey’s final moments emerged, painting a chilling picture of an ordinary day turned nightmare. In the end, her story becomes a haunting reminder of how fragile life can be—and how danger can lurk where we least expect it.References:Teen Went Shopping for an Anniversary Gift, Was Killed by Man Lurking in Parking LotJun 07, 2007, page 4 - The Kans...2025-04-2125 minKoltergeistBroadcast to Bloodshed, what happened to April Kauffman?In this episode of Koltergeist, we delve into the mysterious and chilling case of April Kauffman, a beloved radio host and veterans’ advocate who was found murdered in her home. For years, the case remained unsolved—until a shocking web of secrets unraveled, exposing ties to illegal operations, betrayal, and a deadly conspiracy. What really happened to April, and who wanted her silenced? Join us as we uncover the truth behind a case where nothing was as it seemed.Sources:https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/53498786-the-doctor-the-hitman-and-the-motorcycle-ganghttps://atlanticcityweekly.com/april-kauffman-the-story-behind-the-murdered-veterans-advocate/arti...2025-04-1423 minKoltergeistDecades-Old Mystery: The Search continues for Tracy Marie Kroh as a new prime suspect is identifiedIn 1989, a 17-year-old rising senior was enjoying the last of the lazy days of summer, no doubt excitedly looking forward to her last year of high school. When she suddenly goes missing, the small town of Millersberg, PA is thrust into the center of a mystery that lasts decades, casting suspicion on it’s residents and shady outsiders, while exposing intimate secrets that were never meant to be told. This episode discusses the disappearance of Tracy Marie Kroh, following the investigation from where it started in 1989, along the twists and turns in the road, and ending where the...2025-04-0728 minKoltergeistWhere did Chris Smith sail off to?In this episode of Koltergeist, we explore the mysterious disappearance of Chris Smith, a young entrepreneur who seemingly set off on a worldwide adventure in 2010—only for his loved ones to later suspect something was terribly wrong. His business partner, Ed Shin, claimed Chris had sold his share of their company and was living a carefree life abroad, but as investigators dug deeper, troubling inconsistencies emerged. What really happened to Chris Smith? Join us as we unravel a case filled with deception, greed, and unanswered questions.Sources:https://www.oxygen.com/dateline-unforgettable/crime-news/ed-shin-murder-chris-smith-800-e...2025-03-3138 minKoltergeistFrom saving lives to losing her own: The tragic murder of Lt. Rebecca ParkOn a beautiful summer afternoon in 2003, a promising young life was tragically cut short by a monster who remained elusive for over 2 decades. Rebecca Park, a medical student and Lt in the US Army, set out on a run through the trails of Fairmount park in Philadelphia only to fall prey to a villain who raped, slashed, and essentially terrorized an entire city before finally being apprehended in 2023.We also tell the story of an under-appreciated warrior by the name of Marty Goddard who transformed sexual assault cases, and we give you some must-know safety tips to p...2025-03-2430 minKoltergeistWhy did Chris Coleman risk it all?Episode Summary:When the wife and two young sons of security chiefChris Coleman were found brutally murdered in their home, investigators uncovered a shockingweb of deceit. What first appeared to be the work of a mysterious stalker soon pointed tosomeone much closer to home. In this episode of Koltergeist, we unravel the dark secrets, thedamning evidence, and the cold-blooded motive behind one of the most disturbing familymurders in recent history.References:https://www.stlmag.com/A-Family-Erased-The-Chris-Coleman-Story/2025-03-1743 minKoltergeistThe disappearance of Cindy Song and the chilling crimes of Hugo SelenskiIt was a crisp Halloween night in 2001, and Penn State student Cindy Song was readyand dressed for a night of fun—bunny ears perched on her head, a fluffy cotton tailcompleting the look. She celebrated with friends at a college bar in downtown StateCollege, Pennsylvania. But by the time the sun rose on November 1st, Cindy was gone.Vanished without a trace. No sign of a struggle. No clear suspect. Just an eerie mysterythat would baffle investigators for decades.Her case would eventually le...2025-03-1032 minKoltergeistWhen did Morgan Mengle turn from liar to murderer?Episode Summary:In this episode of Koltergeist, wedelve into the chilling case of Kevin Mengel, a devoted father whose life was cut short by ashocking betrayal. What seemed like a troubled marriage took a deadly turn when his wife,Morgan Mengel, and her younger lover hatched a sinister plan. We uncover the lies, deception,and the trail of evidence that led investigators to the truth. Was justice truly served? Tune in aswe break down this twisted case of love, manipulation, and murder.2025-03-0333 minKoltergeistLesson Unlearned: The murder of Ellen Greenberg and the investigation that failed herEpisode Summary:On a cold January evening in 2011, 27-year-old Ellen Greenberg, a beloved teacherand bride-to-be, was found dead in her Philadelphia apartment with 20 stabwounds—10 of which were to the back of her head and neck. Despite the medicalexaminer determining the manner of death as a homicide, it was never reallyinvestigated as such. The medical examiner then suddenly changed the manner ofdeath to suicide-and then changed it yet again, but the story doesn’t end there. Ellen’sfami...2025-02-2455 minKoltergeistLove, Betrayal and Tragedy: The Marc Gerardot caseEpisode Summary:When a seemingly successful marriage unraveled due to infidelity, it led to an unimaginable tragedy. This episode dives into the love triangle between Marc Gerardot, his wife Jennair, and Meredith Chapman—a story of betrayal, obsession, and meticulous planning. Explore the events that culminated in a shocking murder-suicide, the chilling evidence left behind, and the devastating aftermath for everyone involved. Join us as we unravel the Marc Gerardot case and examine how secrets and emotions spiraled into violence.References:https://abcnews.go.com/US/man-involved-2018-love-triangle-murder-suicide-case/st...2025-02-1740 minKoltergeistFrom missing to murdered/ The puzzling case of Judith SmithEpisode Summary: Judith (Judy) Smith was a 50-year-old Massachusetts woman who went missing while sightseeing in Philadelphia, PA in 1997. Mysteriously, her remains were eventually found 5 months later over 500 miles away. This case leaves us with more questions than answers- how and why did Judy Smith go missing, and- who killed her?References:Apr 14, 1997, page 16 - The Boston Globe at Newspapers.comOct 01, 1997, page 28 - The Boston Globe at Newspapers.comOct 02, 1997, page 59 - Hartford Courant at Newspapers.comAug 31, 1997, page 260 - The Philadelphia Inquirer at Newspapers...2025-02-1039 minKoltergeistHow not to fake your own death…the story of Marcus SchrenkerEpisode Summary:Marcus Schrenker, a former Indiana financial adviser, is best known for his dramatic attempt to fake his death in January 2009 to avoid legal and financial troubles. Schrenker's story involves fraud, deception, and a daring escape attempt that garnered national attention. Schrenker's case became a cautionary tale of greed and desperation. His elaborate but poorly executed attempt to fake his death highlighted the lengths to which some will go to escape accountability.References:https://www.forbes.com/sites/walterpavlo/2019/11/22/white-collar-tales-the-story-of-marcus-schrenker/https://en.wikipedia.org...2025-02-0332 minKoltergeistWhat happened to Lauren Jackson? Plus 3 tips to keep your kids safeEpisode Summary:It’s been 36 years since 5-year-old Lauren Jackson vanished without a trace from her apartment complex in Spring City, Pa. Lauren was last seen by several witnesses playing outside in the early evening hours on October 4, 1988. An extensive investigation by police revealed chilling clues but no sign of Lauren. Was this a stranger abduction or do the answers lie closer to home?This episode also explains why the “stranger danger” safety tactics of the 80’s fell short of properly protecting our children. We cover safety tips from NCMEC as well as practical age-appropriate strategi...2025-01-2739 minKoltergeistIf Eric Richins only listened to his gutEpisode Summary:The Koltergeist episode on Kouri Richins unpacks the shocking case of a wife accused of murdering her husband, Eric Richins, allegedly for financial gain and to be with her lover. We delve into the suspicious circumstances surrounding Eric’s death, Kouri's alleged affair with her handyman, and the text exchanges that hinted at her desire to start a new life. The episode reveals a twisted web of deception and betrayal, exploring what led to the tragic outcome and the questions that remain unanswered.References:https://www.ab...2025-01-2042 minKoltergeistThe tragic deaths of Samantha Josephson and Chanti DixonEpisode Summary:Samantha Josephson was a 21-year-old student at the University of South Carolina who was savagely murdered when she mistakenly got into the car of a man she thought was her Uber driver. Chanti Dixon was a 30-year-old mother of two who was tragically murdered by her Uber driver in Indianapolis. Ridesharing is a convenient option that is increasingly growing in popularity. Between Uber and Lyft, almost 6 billion rides per year are provided. While the number of crimes, including fatalities and sexual assaults is statistically very low, both drivers and riders should be acutely...2025-01-1335 minKoltergeistWhy Didn’t Susan Powell Run?Episode 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: http...2025-01-0637 minKoltergeistUnder the Stars: The Murder of Terry Bowers, JrEpisode 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.Re...2025-01-021h 07