Crime To Burn: Recent Episodes
lilpyrogirl
A true crime podcast where we explore the dark sooty landscape of crimes involving fire including arson and criminal negligence. Join us as we explore what really happened in some of the most horrific criminal fires in history. Hosted by April and some guy that’s seen Backdraft at least twice.
Episode 65
In Part 2, the Lords of Chaos escalate from chaos to carnage. What began as vandalism and firebombs takes a darker turn when Kevin Foster declares war—not just on authority, but on anyone who stands in his way. As their plans spiral, the group bombs a Coca-Cola plant and stalks their high school band director, Mark Schwebes, ultimately ambushing him at his front door. In this episode, we unravel the events that led to Schwebes’ murder, the manipulation tactics Kevin used to turn fear into compliance, and the unraveling of group loyalty as reality sets in. It’s the point of no return—and the fire has only just begun.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
If you need a way to keep your canine contained, you can also support the show by purchasing a Pawious wireless dog fence using our affiliate link and use the code "crimetoburn" at checkout to receive 10% off. Pawious, because our dog Winston needed a radius, not a rap sheet.
Source List: My primary source for this episode was the Book Someone Has to Die Tonight by Jim Greenhill. You can find it on amazon here: https://a.co/d/hwh75F1
Please see Episode 64 show notes for complete sources list for this series.
Episode 64
Obedience to Ashes, Part 1
It started with friendship.
With a promise of belonging.
With a charismatic—yet deeply flawed—leader.
But beneath the surface of this group of misfit boys, something much darker was brewing.
In Part 1 of this series, we examine how Kevin Foster recruited the teens who would become his self-proclaimed militia: the Lords of Chaos. We explore how this band of rebels ended up on the wrong side of the razor-thin wire separating camaraderie from cult.
A warped ideology, a hierarchy built on fear, and a toxic need for power would drag them all toward tragedy. From theft to arson—and eventually murder—this group of boys became victims of manipulation, groupthink, and radicalization.
On Crime to Burn, we explore how it happened—and why it matters.
This episode is dedicated to the memory of Herbert (Herb) Roberson, Retired Lieutenant of Asheville City Fire Department, Upper Hominy Fire Department, Enka-Candler Fire and Rescue Squad, and Buncombe County Rescue Squad.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and his fire department and rescue squad brothers and sisters. His service and dedication will not be forgotten.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
If you need a way to keep your canine contained, you can also support the show by purchasing a Pawious wireless dog fence using our affiliate link and use the code "crimetoburn" at checkout to receive 10% off. Pawious, because our dog Winston needed a radius, not a rap sheet.
Source List: My primary source for this episode was the Book Someone Has to Die Tonight by Jim Greenhill. You can find it on amazon here: https://a.co/d/hwh75F1
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- Greenhill, Jim. Someone Has To Die Tonight. Pinnacle Books (Kensington Publishing Corp.), 2006. 448 pages.
- Morrison, Keith. NBC News. “Young Lords of Chaos.”
🔗 https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna15990418 - UPI Archives. “Killer’s Mom Held Without Bond.” July 22, 2000.
🔗 https://www.upi.com/Archives/2000/07/22/Killers-mom-held-without-bond/7572964238400/ - Wikipedia. “Lords of Chaos (criminal group).”
🔗 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lords_of_Chaos_(criminal_group) - Cifatte, Chris. WINK News. “Lords of Chaos Conspirator to be Released from Prison on Saturday.”
🔗 https://www.winknews.com/news/lee/lords-of-chaos-conspirator-to-be-released-from-prison-on-saturday/article_1769be97-dcf7-552b-8f08-fe90238ee611.html - News-Press. “Photos: The Lords of Chaos – A Look Back.” January 30, 2018.
🔗 https://www.news-press.com/picture-gallery/news/crime/2018/01/30/photos-the-lords-of-chaos---a-look-back/109936410/ - Cape Coral Breeze. “Appeal Denied for Kevin Foster, Convicted in Lords of Chaos Case.” November 1, 2023.
🔗 https://www.capecoralbreeze.com/news/local-news/2023/11/01/appeal-denied-for-kevin-foster-convicted-in-lords-of-chaos-case/
Episode 63
The Pants, the Plot, and the Pickle Rain: Sodium Chlorate's Wild Ride
This week on Crime to Burn, we celebrate our one-year podiversary with an explosive tale—literally. From flaming trousers and banned weedkillers to accidental city-shaking disasters caused by petty crime, we trace the chaotic path of sodium chlorate: the chemical that just couldn’t stop stealing the spotlight.
We cover:
- The fiery fashion faux pas that haunted New Zealand farmers
- The whiskey heist that accidentally leveled part of Vancouver
- The bad-boy redemption arc that now has it saving lives at 30,000 feet
Join us as we salute one of chemistry’s most chaotic compounds—and raise a toast (not a match) to one year of fire, crime, and chemically-assisted absurdity.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
If you need a way to keep your canine contained, you can also support the show by purchasing a Pawious wireless dog fence using our affiliate link and use the code "crimetoburn" at checkout to receive 10% off. Pawious, because our dog Winston needed a radius, not a rap sheet.
Source List:
- Watson, James. The Significance of Mr. Richard Buckley’s Exploding Trousers: Reflections on an Aspect of Technological Change in New Zealand Dairy Farming between the World Wars. Agricultural History, Vol. 78, No. 3 (Summer 2004).
- ChemistryViews. Chlorates: Tragic Incidents and Life-Saving Applications – Parts 1, 2, and 3. June 7, 2022. https://www.chemistryviews.org/chlorates-tragic-incidents-and-life-saving-applications-part-1/
- Who Was the Unabomber? The Real Story of What Ted Kaczynski Kept in his Cabon. Newsweek. July 31, 2017. https://www.newsweek.com/ted-kaczynski-manhunt-unabomber-644260
- Leader (Orange, NSW). "The Danger of Celluloid Collars." August 24, 1912, p. 8. Retrieved from Trove. https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/117803078
- USDA National Organic Standards Board. Sodium Chlorate: Technical Advisory Panel Report. 2000. https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/SodiumChlorateTAP1100.pdf
- Smith, Helena. "Greek Letter Bomb Attack Put Europe on High Alert." The Guardian, November 2, 2010. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2010/nov/02/greek-mail-bomb-attacks-athens
- Hawthorn, Tom. "Vancouver’s Own Port Explosion Was Fuelled by Sodium Chlorate and Whiskey." The Tyee. August 7, 2020. https://thetyee.ca/News/2020/08/07/Vancouver-Port-Explosion-Fueled-By-Sodium-Chlorate-Whiskey/
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) Fact Sheet for Sodium Chlorate. February 2008. https://www3.epa.gov/pesticides/chem_search/reg_actions/reregistration/fs_G-94_1-Feb-08.pdf
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Homemade Chemical Bomb Events and Resulting Injuries — Selected States, January 1996 – March 2003. MMWR Weekly, July 18, 2003. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5228a3.htm
- Wikipedia contributors. 2008 Exeter attempted bombing. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2008_Exeter_attempted_bombing
Episode 62
The Finale.
For over two decades, Lorene Bible has chased whispers through rural Oklahoma—across backroads, into burned-out houses, and deep into the shadows of fear and corruption. In this final chapter, we follow her relentless pursuit as it collides with rumors of meth, murder, and men who believed themselves untouchable.
We’ll trace the steps of private investigators blocked by politics, uncover the objects that linked killers to the crime, and examine how a mother—just a mother—did what no law enforcement agency would: she kept going.
This is the conclusion of our three-part series on the disappearance of Ashley Freeman and Lauria Bible. The fire was only the beginning.
If you have information that can help the families locate the remains of Lauria Bible or Ashley Freeman, please reach out on the facebook page run by the Bible Family, Find Lauria Bible BBI: https://www.facebook.com/p/Find-Lauria-Bible-BBI-100064440802321/ You can also email findlauriabible@yahoo.com or call (918) 244-3625.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
If you need a way to keep your canine contained, you can also support the show by purchasing a Pawious wireless dog fence using our affiliate link and use the code "crimetoburn" at checkout to receive 10% off. Pawious, because our dog Winston needed a radius, not a rap sheet.
Source List:
Please see source list for Episode 60. In addition, Sirens, A Southern True Crime Podcast hosted by investigative journalist and victim advocate, Raven Rollins did a deep dive into this case including interviews with author Jax Miller and Lauria Bible's mother Lorene Bible. I highly recommend their coverage for additional information on the case. Raven's coverage and interviews are also used as source material for this episode.
Our primary source for this case remains the book Hell in the Heartland by Jax Miller which you can find on Amazon here.
Additional sources used for this episode:
- Oklahoma House of Representatives – Coverage of Lauria and Ashley’s Law, including legislative progression and final passage
- KJRH News – Report on Governor Kevin Stitt signing Lauria and Ashley’s Law into effect
- KSWO News – Details on the law’s provisions and its scheduled effective date of November 1, 2025
- News 9 – Coverage of the law’s requirements, with statements from Lorene Bible and law enforcement officials
- KOCO News – Overview of the bill’s signing and related legislative actions
Video Coverage from KOCO (YouTube):
- Lauria and Ashley’s Law Signed by Governor
- Lauria and Ashley’s Law Passes Oklahoma Senate
- Lauria and Ashley’s Law Passes House
Episode 61
Whispers. The town of Welch, Oklahoma was full of whispers after the bodies of Danny and Kathy Freeman were located in the burned out Freeman home. Whispers about drugs, wrongful deaths, police involvement, intentionally botched investigations, and whispers about where the girls were and who had taken them. The whispers swirled around allegations related to Shane Freeman's death after a Craig County Sheriff's Deputy shot him on a rural Oklahoma road nearly a year before. The whispers discussed accusations of drug debts and methamphetamine rings. The whispers built theories. And some of the whispers would eventually harden into statements, allegations, and testimony but it would take years, decades even. In this episode of Crime to Burn, we take you through the whispers and the theories swirling around the Freeman's deaths and the disappearances of Lauria Bible and Ashley Freeman in the early days of the investigation because whispers can spread through a community like wildfire, and the Bible family was willing to consider every whisper in their relentless search for their missing daughter.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
If you need a way to keep your canine contained, you can also support the show by purchasing a Pawious wireless dog fence using our affiliate link and use the code "crimetoburn" at checkout to receive 10% off. Pawious, because our dog Winston needed a radius, not a rap sheet.
Source List:
Please see source list for Episode 60. In addition, Sirens, A Southern True Crime Podcast hosted by investigative journalist and victim advocate, Raven Rollins did a deep dive into this case including interviews with author Jax Miller and Lauria Bible's mother Lorene Bible. I highly recommend their coverage for additional information on the case. Raven's coverage and interviews are also used as source material for this episode.
Our primary source for this case remains the book Hell in the Heartland by Jax Miller which you can find on Amazon here.
Episode 60
In the early hours of December 30, 1999, a mobile home in Welch, Oklahoma went up in flames. Inside, the bodies of Kathy and Danny Freeman were discovered—but their daughter Ashley and her best friend Lauria Bible were gone. In this episode, we unravel the tangled first 24 hours of the case that would come to haunt two families and an entire community. From missing evidence to missteps in the fire investigation, we explore how two teenage girls vanished into the smoke—and why it took nearly two decades for answers to emerge.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
If you need a way to keep your canine contained, you can also support the show by purchasing a Pawious wireless dog fence using our affiliate link and use the code "crimetoburn" at checkout to receive 10% off. Pawious, because our dog Winston needed a radius, not a rap sheet.
Source List:
- KJRH Tulsa. 25 years: Mother, community mark anniversary of Bible, Freeman disappearance. January 2, 2024. People.com
- KJRH Tulsa. Oklahoma's Cold Case Files: Lauria Bible & Ashley Freeman. May 8, 2025.
- People Magazine. Polaroids Prompt Arrest in 1999 Disappearance of 2 Oklahoma Teens.
- People Magazine. How an Overlooked Clue Cracked Open 1999 Murder Case More than a Decade After Teen Girls Were Killed. June 7, 2021. People.com
- Miller, Jax. Hell in the Heartland: Murder, Meth, and the Case of Two Missing Girls. Berkley Books, 2020.
Episode 59
In this special episode of Crime to Burn, we go beyond the headlines with investigative journalist Liliana Segura of The Intercept, one of the first reporters to dig into the troubling details of the Michelle Taylor arson case. From flawed forensic science to systemic failures in the justice system, Liliana shares what drew her to the story, worrisome problems about the crime lab she learned while reporting, and why this case matters far beyond one woman’s conviction. If you've ever wondered what it takes to uncover the truth in a wrongful conviction case, this interview pulls back the curtain.
Read more of Liliana's work here: https://theintercept.com/staff/liliana-segura/
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Listen to us on our friend Taylor Ruddle's podcast, Ruddle Me This right here: https://www.ruddlemethis.com/118-april-leland-from-crime-to-burns-tiny-joys/
If you need a way to keep your canine contained, you can also support the show by purchasing a Pawious wireless dog fence using our affiliate link and use the code "crimetoburn" at checkout to receive 10% off. Pawious, because our dog Winston needed a radius, not a rap sheet.
Episode 58
When Michelle Taylor lost her son in a tragic house fire, she thought the nightmare couldn’t get worse. She was wrong. Fueled by junk science, broken forensics, and a crime lab running on expired credibility, the prosecutors turned a grieving mother into a murder suspect. Twelve debris samples. Twelve false positives. And a justice system more interested in closing a case than finding the truth. This is the story of how bad science—and worse judgment—can burn an innocent life to the ground. Michelle Taylor stands for sentencing on May 30th. The fire didn’t destroy her life. The system did.
A mother’s grief.
A lab’s lies.
A system that chose conviction over truth.
This is Michelle Taylor’s story.
This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Listen to us on our friend Taylor Ruddle's podcast, Ruddle Me This right here: https://www.ruddlemethis.com/118-april-leland-from-crime-to-burns-tiny-joys/
If you need a way to keep your canine contained, you can also support the show by purchasing a Pawious wireless dog fence using our affiliate link and use the code "crimetoburn" at checkout to receive 10% off. Pawious, because our dog Winston needed a radius, not a rap sheet.
Source List:
- Segura L. Smoke and Errors - The Arson Evidence Doesn’t Hold Up. Florida is About to Convict her for Murder Anyway. The Intercept. March 31, 2025. https://theintercept.com/2025/03/31/florida-michelle-taylor-arson-fire-murder-trial/
- Segura L. Facing Life in Prison Based on Shoddy Evidence, A Florida Mother Makes a Deal. The Intercept. April 12, 2025. https://theintercept.com/2025/04/18/michelle-taylor-florida-arson-fire-plea-deal/
- Smith S. Flawed Arson Science and the Michelle Taylor Case. Smith Forensic Blog. https://smithforensic.blogspot.com/2025/04/michelle-taylor-florida-from-our-and.html
- Bureau of Forensic Services. Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Official Statements on Accreditation and Quality Control Procedures. https://www.fdle.state.fl.us/
- National Institute of Justice. Arson Investigation and Evidence Handling Standards. National Institute of Justice (NIJ). https://nij.ojp.gov/
- Taylor M. Plea Agreement. State of Florida v. Michelle Taylor. Case No: 21001215CFMA. Filed April 2, 2025.
- State of Florida. Criminal Complaint. State of Florida v. Michelle Taylor. Case No: 21001215CFMA. Filed August 9, 2021.
- Taylor M. Motion to Exclude Similar Fact Evidence. State of Florida v. Michelle Taylor. Case No: 21001215CFMA. Filed April 19, 2024.
- State of Florida. Indictment. State of Florida v. Michelle Taylor. Case No: 21001215CFMA. Filed August 9, 2021.
- Lentini J. A Model for Confronting Fire Investigation Errors. Fire and Arson Investigator. 2020;71(3):36-45. Available from: https://www.firearson.com/
- State of Florida. Amended Notice of Similar Fact Evidence. State of Florida v. Michelle Taylor. Case No: 21001215CFMA. Filed 2024.
- Taylor M. Plea Agreement. State of Florida v. Michelle Taylor. Case No: 21001215CFMA. Filed April 2, 2025.
- Holbrook,J. Florida’s Arson Lab Loses Accreditation, Wrongful Charges a Main Concern. ABC Action News. August 16, 2016. https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/local-news/i-team-investigates/floridas-arson-lab-loses-accreditation?utm_source=chatgpt.com
- Pipitone, T. Experts Question State Fire Marshal Lab. NBC Miami. September 6, 2016. https://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/experts-question-state-fire-marshal-lab/1979453/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
- Bousquet, S. With State Fire Lab Stripped of National Accreditation, CFO Jeff Atwater Fights Back. Tampa Bay Times. August 17, 2016. https://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/stateroundup/with-state-fire-lab-stripped-of-national-accreditation-cfo-jeff-atwater/2289678/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
- Bosusquet, S. Florida’s Only State-Run Fire Lab Stripped of National Accreditation. Miami Herald. August 17, 2016. https://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article95921822.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com
- Harvey, M. St. Johns County Woman Pleads No Contest to Manslaughter in Death of her 11-year-old Son. First Coast News. April 10, 2025. https://www.firstcoastnews.com/article/news/crime/st-johns-county-woman-pleads-no-contest-to-manslaughter-in-death-of-11-year-old-son/77-f757a62e-b153-40f1-8d5c-ccfaa0daa653?utm_source=chatgpt.com
- Avanier, E. St Augustine Mom Accused of Setting Fire that Killed her Child to Get Insurance Money. News 4 Jax. August 10, 2021. https://www.news4jax.com/news/local/2021/08/10/st-augustine-mom-accused-of-setting-fire-that-killed-her-child-to-get-insurance-money/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
- Lucas Learns. GC-MS for Beginners (Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry). YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9NUXkyIl5A Accessed: April 2025.
- Lucas Learns. How to Interpret Mass Spectrometry Graphs. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b59u_BHOlnk Accessed: April 2025.
- Lucas Learns. Mass Spectrometry Explained. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SKokuAB5CKk Accessed: April 2025.
- Katelyn Perrault. Viewing Fire Debris Chromatograms. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ijJ6qh2VrR8 Accessed: April 2025.
- Lentini, J. Scientific Protocols for Fire Investigation, Third Edition. CRC Press. September 2018.
Episode 57
An illegal nightclub in the Bronx was the scene of the largest mass murder in US HIstory at the time it occurred in 1990. A scorned lover went to the club to persuade his ex-girlfriend to take him back and when his attempts were unsuccessful, he did the unthinkable. With a bottle he found in the street and a dollar worth of gasoline purchased at a nearby gas station, he returned to the club and committed an arson attack that would claim 87 lives. What could drive a man to such drastic measures and how could one fire be so deadly? Listen to this week's episode on the Happy Land Social Club Fire to find out. One man may be responsible for setting the fire, but a series of failures by city officials contributed to the scope of the tragedy.
This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
If you need a way to keep your canine contained, you can also support the show by purchasing a Pawious wireless dog fence using our affiliate link and use the code "crimetoburn" at checkout to receive 10% off. Pawious, because our dog Winston needed a radius, not a rap sheet.
Source List:
Modjeska, OJ. (2020). Happy Land - A Lover’s Revenge. Reality Plus - A Next Chapter Imprint.
Brandt, S. and Sowder, A.M. ‘Contextualising tragedy in places of assembly through cases of New York City social club fires’. Architecture_MPS 24, 1 (2023): 4. DOI: https://doi.org/10.14324/111.444.amps.2023v24i1.004.
https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=916658
https://www.firerescue1.com/fatal-fires/articles/reflecting-on-the-happy-land-social-club-fire-and-similar-incidents-o4qdT2ZGt97QnWIT/
https://allthatsinteresting.com/happy-land-fire
https://pix11.com/news/happy-land-fire-25-years-on-wpixs-original-coverage-of-bronx-tragedy/
https://www.nytimes.com/1990/11/16/nyregion/prosecutor-clears-landlords-in-fatal-social-club-arson.html
https://www.nydailynews.com/2015/03/17/fire-kills-87-people-at-the-happy-land-social-club-in-the-bronx-in-1990/
https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1990-03-28-mn-237-story.html
https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/politics/1991/03/26/5-billion-suit-filed-over-ny-club-fire-that-cost-87-lives/9bc0fa60-992e-4864-91ab-0e5f3827e9bf/
https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/politics/1990/03/26/87-die-in-fire-at-illegal-ny-social-club/2245f278-6847-4894-95b4-f67bfd93b278/
Episode 56
This is the finale of our coverage of the Sydney Ghost Train fire that took 7 innocent lives. Was the fire accidental as the original inquest determined or was it arson and murder orchestrated to allow a greedy man to get control of the valuable real estate the park occupied? While the circumstantial evidence pointing to corruption is very convincing, just how high did the corruption extend into Sydney's government? Some allege that it went all the way to the top and in this episode, we explore those theories. What do you think? Were the Ghost Train's seven victims murdered or do you think it was an accidental fire?
There is a very powerful documentary titled Exposed: The Ghost Train Fire listed in the source list below that we recommend anyone wanting additional information on this case watch for a more clear picture of the allegations contained in this episode. At the time of this recording, it is available on Netflix.
This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Source List (for a complete list of sources, please also see Episode 54 and 55 show notes, additional sources used for this episode are listed below):
Mavety, John (Director), (2021). Exposed: The Ghost Train Fire [Streaming]. Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
https://theconversation.com/the-lionel-murphy-papers-shed-more-light-on-a-controversial-life-83876
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2017/sep/14/lionel-murphy-files-secret-papers-reveal-allegations-of-links-with-boss-abe-saffron
https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/politics/federal/abc-ghost-train-series-misleading-in-linking-wran-and-saffron-20210830-p58nar.html
https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/niece-links-abe-saffron-to-luna-park-deaths-20070526-ge8ps8.html
https://sydneyreviewofbooks.com/essays/hellfire https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/luna-park-tragedy-36th-anniversary-of-the-fire-that-killed-seven-riders-on-the-ghost-train-in-1979/news-story/6e70f4ea61959d1d393ce597da253c78 https://youtu.be/LwchgwRX2e0?si=kSh12rJhhsIdfVkO https://insidestory.org.au/was-neville-wran-corrupt/ And finally, the source for the story about Paul McCartney from the discussion in the outtakes.
https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/why-was-paul-mccartney-arrested-and-deported-from-hamburg/
Episode 55
This week we continue our coverage of the Ghost Train fire that occurred in July of 1979 at Luna Park in Sydney, Australia. The fire ultimately claimed 7 lives and investigators initially told the public it was an accidental electrical fire. However, an electrical engineer showed up at the inquest explaining that there was no way this fire was an electrical fire. Many people believe it was intentional arson arranged by an organized crime boss that wanted the valuable real estate upon which Luna Park sat. Thus begins our trek through a twisted web of crooked cops, corrupt politicians, and of course, greedy criminals with a long history of using arson to get their way. Is it possible that the families of the Luna Park victims have been lied to for over 40 years and that this fire was intentional arson all to gain some real estate advantages? We'll tell you what journalists have uncovered. Now you tell us if you think the Luna Park fire was arson or a tragic accident.
There is a very powerful documentary titled Exposed: The Ghost Train Fire listed in the source list below that we recommend anyone wanting additional information on this case watch for a more clear picture of the allegations contained in this episode. At the time of this recording, it is available on Netflix.
This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Source List (for a complete list of sources, please also see Episode 54 show notes, additional sources used for this episode are listed below):
Mavety, John (Director), (2021). Exposed: The Ghost Train Fire [Streaming]. Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
https://www.museumoffire.net/single-post/the-luna-park-ghost-train-incident-1979
https://www.the-sun.com/news/12953789/ghost-train-blaze-burned-alive-clue-crack-case/
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/132382283
https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/rooklyn-israel-jack-30530
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-30/police-claims-abe-saffron-behind-luna-park-fire/12321044
https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IBC2021P2/chapter-4-special-detailed-requirements-based-on-occupancy-and-use#IBC2021P2_Ch04_Sec411
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9416263/Crime-boss-nicknamed-Mr-Sin-Luna-Park-Ghost-Train-fire-killed-six-kids-cops-say.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abe_Saffron
https://theconversation.com/how-ghost-train-fire-exposed-remarkable-police-corruption-yet-also-failed-abcs-high-journalistic-standards-167042
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-30/police-claims-abe-saffron-behind-luna-park-fire/12321044
https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/king-of-the-cross-sydney-crime-boss-abe-saffron-s-secret-friends-and-properties-20210312-p57abq.html
Episode 54
In July of 1979, seven people would walk through the iconic clown face gates at the Luna Park amusement park in Sydney, Australia but they would not walk out. That July night, a horrific fire occurred in the Ghost Train ride that would claim the lives of six children and one adult. The fire was devastating and despite the nearly total destruction of the site, investigators would announce less than 24 hours after the fire that they'd identified the cause, an electrical fault. However, one man spent the next 3 decades of his life on a crusade to prove that the fire was not a tragic accident but was intentionally set. This is Part 1 of our coverage of Sydney's Luna Park Ghost Train fire and one man's mission to uncover a web of deceit, lies, and astounding corruption that robbed the families of the 7 victims of justice for over 40 years. Keep your arms and legs inside the car at all times, this is going to be a bumpy ride.
This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Source List:
Mavety, John (Director), (2021). Exposed: The Ghost Train Fire [Streaming]. Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
https://www.northweststar.com.au/story/8758705/fresh-report-into-deadly-luna-park-fire-to-stay-secret/
https://www.theguardian.com/media/2021/aug/30/independent-review-criticises-abcs-luna-park-ghost-train-fire-series-over-neville-wran-claim
https://coroners.nsw.gov.au/documents/findings/1979/luna_park_fire_1977_-_findings.pdf
https://quadrant.org.au/news-opinions/uncategorized/the-abc-wont-let-facts-ruin-a-good-beat-up/
https://www.smh.com.au/culture/art-and-design/luna-park-s-big-smile-gets-a-facelift-to-honour-those-who-saved-it-20230502-p5d4zx.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luna_Park_Sydney
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-09-10/nsw-luna-park-ghost-train-fire-redacted-police-report-coroner/104331968
https://www.museumoffire.net/single-post/the-luna-park-ghost-train-incident-1979
https://waverley.nsw.edu.au/conversations/luna-park-tragedy-exposed-with-second-inquiry-possible/
https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2021/mar/24/exposed-the-ghost-train-fire-review-a-devastating-and-revelatory-series
https://findanexpert.unimelb.edu.au/news/29775-how-ghost-train-fire-exposed-remarkable-police-corruption--yet-also-failed-abc%27s-high-journalistic-standards
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9349201/Luna-Park-Ghost-Train-fire-survivor-breaks-silence-four-decades-tragedy.html
Episode 53
This is the conclusion of our coverage of the horrific fire that claimed 41 lives at the St. Elizabeth Hospital and Davenport, Iowa in January 1950. The fire, wtill the deadliest fire in state history, was set by a patient at the hospital and this week we cover her confession and the subsequent legal proceedings. We also take a look at the heroes that stepped up to help save lives during the fire, including some very unlikely heroes. Ultimately 40 patients and one nurse lost their lives. Those 40 patients were at St. Elizabeth Hospital for help and their tragic deaths have helped write the fire and building codes for these types of occupancies with the intent to prevent another disaster like this one. These women that died helped us far more than we ever helped them by showing us how we needed to do better to protect heathcare occupancies.
This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Be sure to check out Season 2 of the You Should Be Here Podcast for the limited series, Or No by Fire Eyes Media. This this collaborative podcasters-give-back series is to bring awareness to and stand against domestic violence. All proceeds will go to a charity taking a stand against domestic violence and human trafficking. Your support of this project is so greatly appreciated. You deserve a safe love.
Listen on Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/you-should-be-here/id1779150686
or on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/2VqlmgQxwn55tdY7td9IM9?si=e19fffdc24064f7b&nd=1&dlsi=e6920c0f7e4c4d65
Listen to our episode with our friends over at Sasquatch and Sourdough where we talk more about the fire in Centralia, Pennsylvania that's been burning for over 62 years.
Listen on Youtube:
https://youtu.be/e2rq340s6c8?si=t2-hEsbC-V0DTdhs
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Source List:
For a complete list of sources, see the source list for Episode 52. Additional sources used for this episode are below.
https://www.wheelanpressly.com/obituary/Elnora-Epperly
https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-dispatch-obituary-for-deirdre-e-epp/77063117/
https://dailyiowan.lib.uiowa.edu/DI/1950/di1950-01-13.pdf
Episode 52
Today we are revisiting the deadliest fire in Iowa's history. On January 7, 1950, a fire occurred at a mental health facility called St. Elizabeth Hospital on the Mercy Hospital campus in Davenport, Iowa. When a diagnosed schizophrenic woman, due to be released that day, acted in paranoid desperation, she caused a fire that claimed the lives of 41 people including one staff member. What factors led her to take such drastic measures? More importantly, why was the fire so deadly? We cover entire case including the fire and building code issues that exacerbated the fire and hampered the escape of dozens of patients as we remember the victims of the St. Elizabeth Hospital fire.
This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Be sure to check out Season 2 of the You Should Be Here Podcast for the limited series, Or No by Fire Eyes Media. This this collaborative podcasters-give-back series is to bring awareness to and stand against domestic violence. All proceeds will go to a charity taking a stand against domestic violence and human trafficking. Your support of this project is so greatly appreciated. You deserve a safe love.
Listen on Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/you-should-be-here/id1779150686
or on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/2VqlmgQxwn55tdY7td9IM9?si=e19fffdc24064f7b&nd=1&dlsi=e6920c0f7e4c4d65
Listen to our episode with our friends over at Sasquatch and Sourdough where we talk more about the fire in Centralia, Pennsylvania that's been burning for over 62 years.
Listen on Youtube:
https://youtu.be/e2rq340s6c8?si=t2-hEsbC-V0DTdhs
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Source List:
Grimes, Bret. The St. Elizabeth Hospital Fire in Iowa. The History Press, 2024 https://a.co/d/aXDBXSU
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Insulin_shock_therapy
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smoke_detector#:~:text=The%20first%20automatic%20electric%20fire,a%20sensor%20for%20poison%20gas.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/9302-ect-electroconvulsive-therapy
https://www.ifsecglobal.com/fire-news/a-history-of-fire-sprinklers/#:~:text=1872%20%E2%80%93%201874:%20From%20Pratt%20to,the%20design%20in%20his%20factory.
https://www.fireranger.com/history-of-the-fire-extinguisher/
https://johnbrassardjr.com/2023/01/21/beyond-recognition-what-started-the-st-elizabeths-fire/
https://blogs.davenportlibrary.com/sc/2015/01/14/the-st-elizabeths-tragedy-part-i-of-ii/
https://blogs.davenportlibrary.com/sc/2015/01/21/the-st-elizabeths-tragedy-part-ii-of-ii/
https://www.wqad.com/article/news/local/st-elizabeth-hospital-fire-davenport-iowa-75-years/526-9b2c51ba-86e9-49ed-b48d-79c00a2271e5
https://www.firehouse.com/operations-training/news/21120288/davenport-ia-firefighter-still-haunted-by-grisly-1950-hospital-blaze
https://www.notesoniowa.com/post/iowa-history-daily-january-7-st-elizabeth-s-fire
Episode 51:
In this episode we conclude our coverage of Angela Garcia's case on Crime to Burn. Angela was faced with an impossible decision, risk another trial or accept what is known as a Dark Plea from prosecutors to secure her freedom. However, when he offered her the plea, prosecutor Richard Bell knew just how flawed his case against her was and many have suggested that his offer of this plea was really an effort to try to prevent his office from negative optics related to the mishandling of this case. And perhaps they're right, after all Richard Bell is now a sitting judge in Ohio. Were his actions an attempt to prevent Angela's conviction and the errors made in the case from tarnishing his reputation and negatively impacting his aspirations to win a seat at the bench? We'll tell you what he did and said, and you can decide. His actions may not have been illegal but they certainly don't seem very honorable.
To get involved in assisting formerly incarcerated individuals like Angela, please consider these organizations:
https://innocenceproject.org/donate-monthly/#:~:text=There%20are%20many%20ways%20to,Project%20in%20your%20estate%20plans.
https://exoneratednation.org/ https://www.lifeafterjustice.org/ https://organizationofexonerees.com/ This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Be sure to check out Season 2 of the You Should Be Here Podcast for the limited series, Or No by Fire Eyes Media. This this collaborative podcasters-give-back series is to bring awareness to and stand against domestic violence. All proceeds will go to a charity taking a stand against domestic violence and human trafficking. Your support of this project is so greatly appreciated. You deserve a safe love.
Listen on Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/you-should-be-here/id1779150686
or on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/2VqlmgQxwn55tdY7td9IM9?si=e19fffdc24064f7b&nd=1&dlsi=e6920c0f7e4c4d65
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Source List:
Please also refer to the source list for Episodes 49 and 50 (Parts 1 and 2 of this case) for a complete list of resources used along with the list below.
One of the best articles on this case is by Liliana Segura (an absolute rockstar reporter) for The Intercept and you can find it here: https://theintercept.com/2017/03/05/did-angela-garcia-kill-her-own-daughters-arson-cover-up/
Liliana Segura's other article on the actions of Richard Bell can be found here:
https://theintercept.com/2020/03/15/richard-bell-arson-junk-science-angela-garcia/
Other sources:
https://www.endthebacklog.org/blog/interview-with-rick-bell-pt-2/
https://www.cleveland.com/opinion/2020/02/richard-a-bell-in-the-democratic-primary-for-cuyahoga-county-common-pleas-judge-unexpired-term.html
Episode 50. Angela Garcia was a 22 year old mother of two when her house caught fire claiming the lives of her two toddler daughters. After her first trial ended in a hung jury, prosecutors tried Angela a second time. However, this time they had new witnesses and new statements "remembered" by investigators 8 months after the event. When her second trial ended in another hung jury, prosecutors completely changed their tactics for a third go at Angela Garcia. But Angela Garcia didn't commit arson. There were some guilty people in the courtroom though, they just weren't the ones sitting at the defense table. Join us now for Part 2 of Angela Garcia's wrongful conviction story on Crime to Burn.
To get involved in assisting formerly incarcerated individuals like Angela, please consider these organizations:
https://innocenceproject.org/donate-monthly/#:~:text=There%20are%20many%20ways%20to,Project%20in%20your%20estate%20plans.
https://exoneratednation.org/ https://www.lifeafterjustice.org/ https://organizationofexonerees.com/ This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Be sure to check out Season 2 of the You Should Be Here Podcast for the limited series, Or No by Fire Eyes Media. This this collaborative podcasters-give-back series is to bring awareness to and stand against domestic violence. All proceeds will go to a charity taking a stand against domestic violence and human trafficking. Your support of this project is so greatly appreciated. You deserve a safe love.
Listen on Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/you-should-be-here/id1779150686
or on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/2VqlmgQxwn55tdY7td9IM9?si=e19fffdc24064f7b&nd=1&dlsi=e6920c0f7e4c4d65
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Source List:
Please also refer to the source list for Episode 49 (Part 1 of this case) for a complete list of resources used along with the list below.
One of the best articles on this case is by Liliana Segura for The Intercept and you can find it here: https://theintercept.com/2017/03/05/did-angela-garcia-kill-her-own-daughters-arson-cover-up/
https://www.wkyc.com/article/news/local/cuyahoga-county/cuyahoga-ex-judge-mccafferty-isnt-disbarred-for-life/95-242002151
https://www.cleveland19.com/story/13993313/liar-liar-new-indictment-says-judge-bridget-mccafferty-was-not-very-honest-with-the-fbi/
https://clevelandmagazine.com/in-the-cle/politics/articles/aaron-phillips'-deal-with-the-devil
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2019/03/21/curtis-flowers-case-shows-why-diverse-juries-matter/
https://www.wkyc.com/article/news/local/cuyahoga-county/cuyahoga-ex-judge-mccafferty-isnt-disbarred-for-life/95-242002151
https://www.cleveland.com/countyincrisis/2011/03/former_judge_bridget_mccaffert_1.html
https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-wrongful-conviction-27797564/episode/422-maggie-freleng-with-angela-garcia-146288018/
https://legaltalknetwork.com/guests/angela-garcia/
https://www.cleveland19.com/story/13993313/liar-liar-new-indictment-says-judge-bridget-mccafferty-was-not-very-honest-with-the-fbi/
https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/1001279-angela-garcia-docs-1/
Episode 49. Angela Garcia was a 22 year old mother of two when her house caught fire claiming the lives of her two toddler daughters. Angela soon found herself standing in a courtroom accused of arson, murder, and insurance fraud. What evidence did investigators have to prove Angela had done such a horrible deed? They had some photos and some arson investigation myths that had been debunked already by the time she was tried. Two juries couldn't be convinced of her guilt and resulted in back-to-back mistrials after the juries reported they were hopelessly deadlocked. A third jury would send her to prison for a crime she didn't commit. This is the story of Angela Garcia and how a dark plea continues to cast a shadow over her life. What did Angela Garcia trade for her freedom? This is Part 1 of Angela's story on Crime to Burn.
To get involved in assisting formerly incarcerated individuals like Angela, please consider these organizations:
https://innocenceproject.org/donate-monthly/#:~:text=There%20are%20many%20ways%20to,Project%20in%20your%20estate%20plans.
https://exoneratednation.org/ https://www.lifeafterjustice.org/ https://organizationofexonerees.com/ This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Be sure to check out Season 2 of the You Should Be Here Podcast for the limited series, Or No by Fire Eyes Media. This this collaborative podcasters-give-back series is to bring awareness to and stand against domestic violence. All proceeds will go to a charity taking a stand against domestic violence and human trafficking. Your support of this project is so greatly appreciated. You deserve a safe love.
Listen on Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/you-should-be-here/id1779150686
or on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/2VqlmgQxwn55tdY7td9IM9?si=e19fffdc24064f7b&nd=1&dlsi=e6920c0f7e4c4d65
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Source List:
https://theintercept.com/2017/03/05/did-angela-garcia-kill-her-own-daughters-arson-cover-up/
https://www.clevescene.com/news/angela-garcias-2001-arson-murder-conviction-still-raising-questions-the-intercept-came-to-cleveland-to-investigate-5645270
https://www.newser.com/story/239409/greedy-mom-who-killed-her-kids-or-victim-of-junk-science.html#google_vignette
https://engagedscholarship.csuohio.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1025&context=etcetera
https://innocenceproject.org/guilty-plea-series-the-case-of-angela-garcia/
https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-wrongful-conviction-27797564/episode/422-maggie-freleng-with-angela-garcia-146288018/
https://www.guiltypleaproblem.org/?id=angela_garcia
https://youtu.be/RlUwJXsvme0?si=w0kITbdpkWnVuzDe
https://youtu.be/qa6Sk0TXw8w?si=pXicJxBXt5lSiNwj
https://youtu.be/Qfh0L6dXK0w?si=j0KiOCzcjvcq_k4B
United States District Court Northern District of Ohio Eastern Division. Angela Garcia Vs Patricia Andrews, Warden. Case No. 1:04CV0612
Court of Appeals of Ohio, Eighth District, County of Cuyahoga. Stage of Ohio vs. Angela Garcia. No. 79917
This is the finale of our series on the mine fire that destroyed an entire community. From the government missteps to the toxic attitudes that drove division in the town, so many factors compounded and the residents of Centralia paid the price. This week we cover how divided the town's residents became including death threats and a firebombing. We discuss the government's final plan for Centralia, and what remains today where Centralia once stood.
Correction: Around the 22 minute mark I indicate that residents within a 16 mile zone were offered relocation. It should have said a 16 acre acre zone, not mile. My apologies for any confusion.
This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Be sure to check out Season 2 of the You Should Be Here Podcast for the limited series, Or No by Fire Eyes Media. This this collaborative podcasters-give-back series is to bring awareness to and stand against domestic violence. All proceeds will go to a charity taking a stand against domestic violence and human trafficking. Your support of this project is so greatly appreciated. You deserve a safe love.
Listen on Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/you-should-be-here/id1779150686
or on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/2VqlmgQxwn55tdY7td9IM9?si=e19fffdc24064f7b&nd=1&dlsi=e6920c0f7e4c4d65
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Source List:
A complete list of sources used is available in the show notes for parts 1 and 2 of this series (Episodes 44 and 45).
As we continue our deep dive into everything that went wrong in the government's response to the Centralia, Pennsylvania mine fire tragedy, we can't ignore the conspiracy theories that were rampant among many town residents. This week we discuss how such conspiracies started and what made them easy for some residents to believe. We discuss the evidence in support of and in opposition to those theories so you can make a decision about whether there was any conspiracy between private mining companies and the government related to the Centralia disaster. Tell us what you think.
This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Source List:
A complete list of sources used is available in the show notes for parts 1 and 2 of this series (Episodes 44 and 45).
We've all heard about the canary in the coal mine being an indicator to miners that the air quality in the mine was getting dangerous to breathe. When one Centralia family woke up one morning after suffering unusual and unexplainable ailments in recent weeks to find their pet canary dead in its cage, the people of Centralia could no longer ignore the deadly fire that had been inching closer to their town year after year while they waited for the government to find a way to control it. As the first Centralia families were forced to evacuate their homes, the federal government took over the Centralia mine fire disaster but would their efforts be too little too late? This is the third part in our deep dive into the Centralia mine fire disaster in Pennsylvania. Join us as we uncover exactly what went wrong from the perspective of a fire protection engineer on Crime to Burn.
This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Source List:
A complete list of sources used is available in the show notes for parts 1 and 2 of this series (Episodes 44 and 45).
This week we continue our coverage of the mine fire that has burned in rural Pennsylvania for over 60 years. Last week we covered the physics of a mine fire and the most widely accepted theory of how the fire started. This week in addition to covering the other theories of how the fire may have started, we also discuss the initial projects undertaken to control the fire. What went wrong? While it's easy to look in hindsight and see how certain missteps by government officials contributed to the disaster that destroyed an entire town, the question we seek to answer is whether or not any of those missteps constitute negligence. Did government officials make the best decisions they could given what they knew at the time? Join us as we returne to Centralia, Pennsylvania and pick apart all the theories from the perspective of a fire protection engineer.
This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Source List:
For a full list of sources please see the show notes from Part 1. Additional sources used in the development of this episode are as follows:
https://phys.org/news/2018-04-hydrogen-coal-fuel.html
https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/LI/consCheck.cfm?txtType=HTM&ttl=18÷=0&chpt=33
https://www.maxapress.com/article/doi/10.48130/emst-0024-0004
https://www.tnonline.com/20230812/60th-anniversary-sheppton-mine-disaster-a-tragedy-that-defined-an-era/
In central Pennsylvania, there's a fire that's been burning for over 60 years and it's still burning. They said it was just a tragic accident. A fire burning in the underground abandoned coal mines in Centralia, Pennsylvania was at first a nuisance, then a concern, then a crisis of epic consequence. However, many investigators over the decades have uncovered evidence that this fire wasn't actually an accident at all. We'll bring you not just the evidence uncovered in support of the different theories presented, but we'll bring you an in-depth understanding of the challenges of a mine fire from the perspective of a fire protection expert. You may know the story of Centralia, PA...but you've never heard it like this.
This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Source List:
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK: DeKok, David. Fire Underground - The Ongoing Tragedy of the Centralia Mine Fire. Global Pequot Press. 2010. Ebook.
Quigley, Joan. The Day the Earth Caved In - An American Mining Tragedy. Random House. 2007. Ebook
https://phys.org/news/2018-04-hydrogen-coal-fuel.html
https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/LI/consCheck.cfm?txtType=HTM&ttl=18÷=0&chpt=33
https://www.maxapress.com/article/doi/10.48130/emst-0024-0004
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Centralia,_Pennsylvania
2005 Interview with one of the last residents of Centralia, PA (WGALTV) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0smgua_yW-g
https://www.abc27.com/digital-originals/history-of-centralia-a-pennsylvania-ghost-town/
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dep/programs-and-services/mining/abandoned-mine-reclamation/aml-program-information/centralia-mine-fire-resources.html
Centralia, PA - America's Burning Ghost Town (Documentary) (Part-time Explorer) https://youtu.be/Qj5LjacccJ0?si=Z3g2J_eQuoQ_M5Qo
Centralia, Pennsylvania - Full Documentary (Documentary Channel) https://youtu.be/0Lftblcp0Ns?si=0AeVaWcp7P_a_mQV
In this week's episode we conclude our coverage of the Evelyn Zigerelli Henderson case out of Harrisburg, PA. Evelyn was tried and convicted for setting her husband, a former sheriff's deputy, on fire on the back porch of their home following an argument over money. This week we evaluate the interpretations of the physical evidence by the fire investigator hired by the defense. I take you through his interpretations of the evidence and explain why it didn't sway a jury to find Evelyn not guilty. Do you think the jury got this one right? Let us know your thoughts.
This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended.
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Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
For a complete list of sources, please see the show notes for Episode 42.
In June of 2022, Evelyn Zigerelli Henderson called 911 to report that her husband of more than 30 years, a former sheriff's deputy, had either intentionally or accidentally set himself on fire. However, police quickly suspected foul play. Evelyn changed her story multiple times but ultimately, she was convicted for the murder of her husband by arson. Does the evidence presented in court stand up to scientific scrutiny? We'll go through it all so you can decide for yourself. This is a case of Murder by Arson in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on Crime to Burn.
This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended.
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Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Sources Used:
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Vs. Evelyn Henderson in the Court of Common Pleas Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, NO. CP-22-CR-0003070-2022, Transcript of Proceedings Jury Trial Pages 1 - 539.
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Vs. Evelyn Henderson in the Court of Common Pleas Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, NO. CP-22-CR-0003070-2022, Transcript of Proceedings Sentencing Pages 1 - 9.
https://lawandcrime.com/crime/wife-who-set-fire-to-husband-a-former-deputy-sheriff-and-watched-him-burn-before-eventually-calling-911-is-convicted-of-murder/
https://dauphin.crimewatchpa.com/da/310/cases/evelyn-henderson-convicted-second-degree-murder
https://www.law.com/thelegalintelligencer/almID/1202480100178/
https://local21news.com/news/local/susquehanna-twp-woman-charged-with-criminal-homicide-and-arson
https://www.greghillassociates.com/the-exceptions-to-advising-someone-of-miranda-rights.html#:~:text=Nonetheless%2C%20there%20are%20two%20exceptions,the%20%E2%80%9Cpublic%20safety%E2%80%9D%20exception.
https://lawandcrime.com/crime/evelyn-zigerelli-henderson-pennsylvania-politician-murder-burn-retired-deputy-sheriff-husband/
https://www.pennlive.com/crime/2024/03/wifes-confession-in-killing-of-retired-cop-shown-to-jurors-i-set-the-fire-with-matches.html
https://lawandcrime.com/crime/wife-who-set-fire-to-husband-a-former-deputy-sheriff-and-watched-him-burn-before-eventually-calling-911-is-convicted-of-murder/
https://www.pennlive.com/news/2022/06/former-candidate-in-dauphin-county-politics-charged-in-death-of-husband-a-retired-chief-deputy-sheriff.html
Crime to Burn is a true crime podcast about criminal fires including arson, bombings, and criminal negligence. Hosted by April, a fire protection engineer with over 20 years of industry experience. Her husband, a self-proclaimed professional idiot, is her hilarious co-host and he may not be a fire expert but he's seen the movie Backdraft at least twice.
Let's close out 2024 with some festive... arson? Turns out that one holiday tradition in Sweden, the Gävle Goat or Gävlebocken has a dark and sinister history associated with the otherwise festive tradition. The Gävle Goat has been damaged or destroyed 42 out of 58 years. It's been hit by cars, beaten with clubs, and even subjected to an Alfred Hitchcock style bird massacre. However, the most popular way to dispatch the over 40 foot tall goat is arson. It's been roasted a record 38 times. As of the time of this recording, on Christmas Day, 2024, the Gävlebocken was still standing but in many years it's fallen prey to the flames of vandals on New Year's Eve so will it survive to see the dawning of 2025? Only time will tell. You can check to see if it's still standing at the official youtube livestream here: https://www.youtube.com/@gavlegoatlive
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Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Sources Used:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G%C3%A4vle_goat#:~:text=The%20construction%20of%20the%20goat,Merchants%20pay%20the%20remaining%20sum.
https://youtu.be/R3G3yUSJLRY?si=q-4RiF8dCnOpmlZg
https://www.indy100.com/viral/gavle-goat-arson-tradition-sweden
https://www.visitgavle.se/en/gavlebockens-ode
https://www.icelandreview.com/news/society/woman-who-set-ikea-christmas-goat-on-fire-regrets-nothing/
https://www.wheelandanchor.ca/swedens-giant-goat-has-survived-burning-shooting-and-kidnapping-can-it-now-fight-off-the-birds/
https://nymag.com/intelligencer/2012/12/gavle-goat-sweden-burn-interview-eje-berglund.html
https://www.cbc.ca/radio/asithappens/g%C3%A4vle-goat-birds-1.7066692
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/every-year-a-swedish-town-builds-a-giant-straw-goat-and-people-just-cant-help-burning-it-down-180948158/
https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2016/11/30/503881528/swedish-revelers-get-their-goat-again-as-holiday-tradition-meets-annual-arson
https://youtu.be/Wom8qQXt7j0?si=sbhoVHkpIWatfSr1
https://www.visitgavle.se/en/about-gavle-goat
https://youtu.be/ROzkRmrlqyU?si=4FZg6oXaFiuazTBc
In this final episode of the Juwan Deering Wrongful Arson Conviction Case, we learn even more allegations of investigatory and prosecutorial misconduct. We find out what evidence the independent investigator found indicating that Deering's rights were violated and who was allegedly responsible for those actions. In addition, we uncovered new court documents for a civil suit that sheds new light on some of the undisclosed witness testimony and offers an alternative plausible theory of how the fire started.
We also remember the victims of this horrific tragedy: Taleigha Dean, Age 10; Craig Dean, Age 8; Aaron Dean, Age 7, Eugene Dean, Age 5, and Michelle Frame, Age 11.
Special thanks to the University of Michigan Law school for providing the court transcripts for the original Juwan Deering Trial.
The National Registry of Exonerations is a project of the Newkirk Center for Science & Society at University of California Irvine, the University of Michigan Law School and Michigan State University College of Law. It was founded in 2012 in conjunction with the Center on Wrongful Convictions at Northwestern University School of Law. The Registry provides detailed information about every known exoneration in the United States since 1989—cases in which a person was wrongly convicted of a crime and later cleared of all the charges based on new evidence of innocence. The Registry also maintains a more limited database of known exonerations prior to 1989.
You can support their mission to help fight wrongful convictions here: https://funraise.org/give/National-Registry-of-Exonerations/49d88db1-4a88-433c-a0ab-3a4453535ba8/
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Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
For a complete list of sources used, please see Episode 38. Below are additional sources used this week:
https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCOURTS-mied-2_22-cv-11809/pdf/USCOURTS-mied-2_22-cv-11809-4.pdf
https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCOURTS-mied-2_22-cv-12973/pdf/USCOURTS-mied-2_22-cv-12973-1.pdf
https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mied.363716/gov.uscourts.mied.363716.49.0.pdf
https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mied.363716/gov.uscourts.mied.363716.53.0.pdf
https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mied.363716/gov.uscourts.mied.363716.56.0.pdf
https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mied.363716/gov.uscourts.mied.363716.71.0.pdf
https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mied.363716/gov.uscourts.mied.363716.87.0.pdf
https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mied.363716/gov.uscourts.mied.363716.91.0.pdf
https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mied.363716/gov.uscourts.mied.363716.128.0.pdf
https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/64868582/deering-v-oakland-county/
https://thecountypress.mihomepaper.com/articles/courser-attorney-moves-to-have-case-tossed/
https://www.deadlinedetroit.com/articles/28006/u-m_innocence_clinic_prods_oakland_prosecutor_to_look_into_2006_metro_detroit_conviction
https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/oakland/2021/05/14/juwan-deering-arson-oakland-county-prosecutor-jail-informantsf/5071835001/
https://youtu.be/vLu-lil21IE?si=f-_clC2Y8wknYriM
https://www.youtube.com/live/niu2qkygKUA?si=gxtceGpXNwjMiXVq
This week we continue our coverage of the Juwan Deering wrongful conviction. Juwan Deering was a Michigan man accused of setting a fatal fire that killed 5 children in Royal Oak Township, Michigan. Deering was convicted based on now-debunked arson investigation myths but that isn't the only reason he was convicted. The prosecutor in the case stands accused of some shocking misconduct and we get into it in this episode. Could it be that political motives pushed a prosecutor violate ethics standards to secure a conviction in a mass murder that had been languishing for 6 years? We'll tell you what he's accused of doing but we can only make guesses at his motives for these alleged actions.
Special thanks to the University of Michigan Law school for providing the court transcripts for the original Juwan Deering Trial.
The National Registry of Exonerations is a project of the Newkirk Center for Science & Society at University of California Irvine, the University of Michigan Law School and Michigan State University College of Law. It was founded in 2012 in conjunction with the Center on Wrongful Convictions at Northwestern University School of Law. The Registry provides detailed information about every known exoneration in the United States since 1989—cases in which a person was wrongly convicted of a crime and later cleared of all the charges based on new evidence of innocence. The Registry also maintains a more limited database of known exonerations prior to 1989.
You can support their mission to help fight wrongful convictions here: https://funraise.org/give/National-Registry-of-Exonerations/49d88db1-4a88-433c-a0ab-3a4453535ba8/
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Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
For a complete list of sources used, please see Episode 38. Below are additional sources used this week:
https://catherinebroad.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/March-27-2022-Article.pdf
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/070674370505001303#:~:text=Taken%20together%2C%20these%20studies%20show,not%20make%20that%20memory%20reliable.
https://www.wxyz.com/news/oakland-co-prosecutor-uncovers-ethical-violations-in-deadly-arson-case-conviction
https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/2021/05/14/prosecutor-townsend-whitmer-kidnap-ethics/5094269001/
Juwan Deering was charged and convicted for setting a fire at a home that killed five children. However, investigators based their determination of how the fire began on now-debunked arson investigation myths. Juwan Deering was seen by investigators and the court system in a negative light and as a result he did not receive a fair trial nor did investigators behave in an ethical manner in prosecuting the case. Find out all the details of Juwan Deering's case on Crime to Burn.
Special thanks to the University of Michigan Law school for providing the court transcripts for the original Juwan Deering Trial.
The National Registry of Exonerations is a project of the Newkirk Center for Science & Society at University of California Irvine, the University of Michigan Law School and Michigan State University College of Law. It was founded in 2012 in conjunction with the Center on Wrongful Convictions at Northwestern University School of Law. The Registry provides detailed information about every known exoneration in the United States since 1989—cases in which a person was wrongly convicted of a crime and later cleared of all the charges based on new evidence of innocence. The Registry also maintains a more limited database of known exonerations prior to 1989.
You can support their mission to help fight wrongful convictions here: https://funraise.org/give/National-Registry-of-Exonerations/49d88db1-4a88-433c-a0ab-3a4453535ba8/
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Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Sources:
Juwan Deering court transcripts provided courtesy of the University of Michigan law school. People of the State of Michigan v Juwan Knumar Deering No. 06-207873-FC
https://www.law.umich.edu/special/exoneration/Pages/casedetail.aspx?caseid=6042
https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/oakland/2022/08/05/juwan-deering-lawsuit-fire-royal-oak-township/10246683002/
https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/oakland/2022/08/05/juwan-deering-lawsuit-fire-royal-oak-township/10246683002/
https://www.npr.org/2021/09/30/1041970362/juwan-deering-michigan-freed-wrongful-conviction-fire-children-deaths
https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/oakland/2021/09/30/juwan-deering-free-prison/5928691001/
https://murderpedia.org/male.D/d/deering-juwan.htm
https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/oakland-county/2021/08/31/prosecutor-vacate-life-sentence-man-convicted-fire-killing-five-kids-juwan-deering/5665134001/
https://www.chronline.com/stories/man-sentenced-to-life-for-fire-that-killed-five-children-freed-from-prison,273634
https://casetext.com/case/deering-v-oakland-cnty-3
https://www.oxygen.com/crime-news/juwan-deering-exonerated-by-detroit-area-court-after-15-years
https://www.wxyz.com/news/new-evidence-vindicates-man-convicted-of-fire-that-killed-5-children-decades-ago-in-royal-oak-township
https://www.mlive.com/news/2021/09/man-wont-face-second-trial-after-wrongful-conviction-in-house-fire-that-killed-5-kids.html
https://apnews.com/article/fires-fec10106eec4b2646a8b65608fe015d3
https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCOURTS-mied-2_11-cv-10320/pdf/USCOURTS-mied-2_11-cv-10320-1.pdf
https://www.foxnews.com/us/case-ends-man-wrongly-convicted-5-kids-deaths
https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/09/22/conviction-sentences-dropped-for-house-fire-that-killed-5-kids/
https://casetext.com/case/deering-v-oakland-cnty-3
https://law.justia.com/cases/michigan/court-of-appeals-unpublished/2008/20081211-c274208-93-274208-opn.html
https://www.theoaklandpress.com/2004/04/06/reward-offered-in-arson-case-that-killed-5-children/
https://www.theoaklandpress.com/2006/08/24/killer-gets-life-without-parole/
https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/oakland/2021/05/14/juwan-deering-arson-oakland-county-prosecutor-jail-informantsf/5071835001/
https://caselaw.findlaw.com/court/mi-court-of-appeals/1403179.html
https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/oakland-county/2021/09/21/oakland-county-judge-grants-new-trial-man-serving-life-fire-killed-5/5789185001/
https://www.frontpagedetectives.com/p/michigan-freed-prisoner-house-fire-child-killed
In November 2017, a "volunteer reporter" went viral for her coverage of a house fire in Norfolk, Virginia for all the right reasons. What she lacks in professional broadcast training and polished vocabulary, she makes up for with her enthusiasm. While her reporting is nothing short of a national treasure, the fact is that in her coverage of this fire, she happened to actually solve a crime. Our hats off to you Rhoda Young. We are in your debt as a society and this episode is dedicated to you.
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Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Please check out Rhoda Young's YouTube Channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@RhodaYoungTVgmail
You can find the video we discuss on Statter 911 here: https://youtu.be/xuUkvE0H1Ig?si=_seQI2IUuGKMhW2W
and the Statter 911 YouTube Channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@STATter911
Source List:
https://www.boredpanda.com/woman-reporter-fire-arson-case-solves-facebook-live-rhoda-young/
https://www.wral.com/man-arrested-charged-with-arson-after-norfolk-house-fire/17146449/?version=amp
https://patch.com/new-jersey/mahwah/don-stricker-jr-mahwah-fire-chief-who-started-scuba-team-dies
https://www.13newsnow.com/article/news/crime/norfolk-man-charged-with-burning-down-his-own-home/291-495320737
https://www.wtkr.com/2018/09/05/norfolk-man-pleads-guilty-to-setting-house-on-fire
https://www.wtkr.com/2017/11/27/crews-battling-large-house-fire-in-norfolk
Angie Abdullah should be alive today. She should be celebrating the accomplishments and successes of her now-adult children. Instead she was prematurely silenced by a controlling husband who carried out a gruesome murder and attempted to cover his crime with arson, risking the lives of four children in the process. However, her husband, Azad Abdullah, was as inept an arsonist as he was a husband and provider. As a result of his ineptitude, police quickly figured out Azad was responsible for arson, murder, attempted murder, and felony injury to a child. He was sentenced to death for his crimes and he sits today in an Idaho prison awaiting his execution date. Azad Abdullah silenced Angie forever, so today we give a voice to an innocent victim of a tyrannical husband by telling Angie Abdullah's story on Crime to Burn.
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Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Source List:
https://www.courtlistener.com/opinion/3133306/state-v-azad-haji-abdullah/
https://law.justia.com/cases/idaho/supreme-court-civil/2021/46497.html
https://isc.idaho.gov/opinions/31659.pdfhttps://www.spokesman.com/stories/2004/nov/20/man-guilty-of-murder-of-his-wife/https://caselaw.findlaw.com/court/spr-crt-ida-boi-jun-202-ter/115579918.htmlhttps://www.lmtribune.com/northwest/husband-of-muslim-woman-faces-murder-chargeef9defbchttps://murderpedia.org/male.A/a/abdullah-azad.htmhttps://www.upi.com/Top_News/2002/10/21/No-bail-in-Idaho-murder-arson/70601035249480/https://www.idahostatesman.com/entertainment/arts-culture/article254147478.htmlhttps://www.spokesman.com/stories/2004/nov/24/man-gets-death-penalty-in-killing-of-his-wife/https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/190660441/angela-charlene-abdullahhttps://www.findagrave.com/memorial/257880461/evelyn_lucille_whittington
This is a special feature on Crime to Burn. On Sunday, November 10, I was able to sit down and have a conversation with Kristine Bunch. We covered Kristine's case in episodes 32 and 33. Kristine was accused of intentionally setting a fire at her home that claimed the life of her toddler son. Investigators developed their theory of what happened based on a now debunked arson investigation myth that was once widely believed. When the forensic testing didn't support investigators' theories, they allegedly colluded to falsify test reports that were presented in court to secure Kristine's conviction for arson and murder. Kristine spent 17 years incarcerated for a crime she did not commit. The truth finally prevailed and Kristine was exonerated and released from prison and she has not stopped fighting to help others. Hear about Kristine's work since her release and how you can get involved.
Please visit the organizations listed below to find out how you can get involved in Kristine's continued fight for truth, justice, and successful reintegration post-incarceration.
https://exoneratednation.org/ https://www.lifeafterjustice.org/ https://organizationofexonerees.com/ https://www.uis.edu/news/illinois-innocence-project-uis-begins-wrongful-conviction-awareness-and-avoidance-training IMPORTANT NEWS:
April is a guest on the Dairyland Frights podcast episode airing on November 17th. You can find Dairyland Frights here: Dairyland Frights Linktree
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Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Clarence Roberts was reported to have died in a fire in 1970... and then he died in another fire in 1980. But we know a man cannot die twice but we have two bodies and many believe he died in 1970 while others believe he died in 1980 and at least one that believes he wasn't killed in either fire. This case is a crazy story of desperation, murder, and arson. So, if only one of the bodies can be Clarence Roberts, who exactly is the second body? Find out what we know on Crime to Burn.
IMPORTANT NEWS:
April is a guest on the Dairyland Frights podcast episode airing on November 17th. You can find Dairyland Frights here: Dairyland Frights Linktree
Crime to Burn will have a special feature Monday November 18 - an interview with Kristine Bunch. Kristine was the subject of episodes 32 and 33 after she was wrongfully convicted for a fatal arson based on arson investigation myths and allegedly falsified evidence. We had the opportunity to sit down and discuss her case and her continued work since her release from prison.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Source List:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fC_qai0wwwQ Dark Curiosities YouTube Channel
https://law.justia.com/cases/indiana/court-of-appeals/1980/1-1179a307-6.html
https://vocal.media/criminal/the-tale-of-the-husband-presumed-dead-and-buried-twice
https://unsolvedmysteries.fandom.com/wiki/Clarence_and_Geneva_Roberts
https://www.upi.com/Archives/1980/12/02/The-fiery-death-of-Clarence-Roberts-now-or-then/6856344581200/
Obituary Geneva Robertsy, Brown county Democrat, Nashville, Indiana, Wed, 3 dec 1980.
Arson fire claims life of Geneva Roberts; second victim ‘looks like’ Clarence., Brown County Democrat, Nashville, Indiana, 3, dec 1980.
https://www.unilad.com/community/life/clarence-thomas-indiana-fire-mystery-436674-20231120
https://www.upi.com/Archives/1980/12/02/Clarence-Roberts-apparent-fire-victim-again/5830344581200/
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/experiences/indiana/unsolved-mystery-in
https://www.grunge.com/1050389/clarence-roberts-the-man-who-died-in-a-mysterious-fire-twice/
https://podcasts.musixmatch.com/podcast/crime-junkie-01gtg7m4g0zktw8z1m5q0r8msy/episode/mysterious-death-of-clarence-roberts-01h8xf2q3r7b8ed1j0x31dbbyt
https://youtu.be/lPNkkOI3aGc?si=2nX_T0zshBz1r9zU
https://youtu.be/QNM9W7fZft8?si=wkhkcwcmAJsZ10gg
In this episode we conclude the story of Kristine Bunch's wrongful conviction for arson and murder. When Kristine was 21, her trailer home burned down taking the life of her toddler son. At 22, Kristine was sentenced to 60 years in prison for a crime she did not commit. Last week we had an in-depth discussion of fire dynamics and what arson investigators found. This week we uncover the dark truth about the alleged collusion between investigators and an ATF forensic chemist that altered test results and ultimately sent Kristine to prison for 17 years. We discuss Kristine's agonizingly long fight and wait for justice to be served. Kristine's conviction was overturned but that's not the end of her story. Hear about her amazing work to help others that have been wrongfully convicted.
Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Source List:
https://indymaven.com/articles/kristine-bunch/
https://justicereformfoundation.org/wrongfully-convicted/kristine-bunch-a-woman-wrongfully-convicted-becomes-a-voice-for-justice-reform/
https://law.justia.com/cases/indiana/supreme-court/1998/060901-trb.html
https://www.creators.com/read/susan-estrich/10/22/17-years-in-prison-for-a-crime-she-did-not-commit
https://communitydining.com/2016/05/02/the-plight-of-kristine-bunch/
https://casetext.com/case/bunch-v-united-states-11
https://vocal.media/criminal/the-story-of-kristine-bunch-how-arson-investigators-sent-a-woman-to-prison-for-more-than-17-years
https://law.justia.com/cases/indiana/court-of-appeals/2012/16a05-1007-pc-439.html
https://casetext.com/case/bunch-v-frank-1
https://cwc.law.northwestern.edu/freed-exonerated/kristine-bunch/
https://www.happyscribe.com/public/wrongful-conviction-podcasts/wrongful-conviction-with-jason-flom-kristine-bunch
https://www.nprillinois.org/news/2019-10-23/kristine-bunch-life-after-a-wrongful-conviction
https://www.jacksonvilleprogress.com/opinion/columns/17-years-in-prison-for-a-crime-she-did-not-commit/article_9dcec81a-5477-11ed-8e09-f38e5a50d3a0.html
https://woffordogb.com/20131/news/the-wrongful-conviction-of-kristine-bunch/
https://www.law.northwestern.edu/legalclinic/wrongfulconvictions/exonerations/in/kristine-bunch.html
https://www.wfyi.org/news/articles/the-price-of-freedom
What happens when we allow junk science and fire investigation mythology into the halls of justice? Kristine Bunch can tell you. She spent 17 years paying a debt to society that she didn't owe after being wrongfully convicted of the arson that killed her toddler son. But Kristine Bunch never stopped fighting for truth and even after her release, she continued the fight to help others that have been wrongfully convicted.
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Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
Source List:
https://indymaven.com/articles/kristine-bunch/
https://justicereformfoundation.org/wrongfully-convicted/kristine-bunch-a-woman-wrongfully-convicted-becomes-a-voice-for-justice-reform/
https://law.justia.com/cases/indiana/supreme-court/1998/060901-trb.html
https://www.creators.com/read/susan-estrich/10/22/17-years-in-prison-for-a-crime-she-did-not-commit
https://communitydining.com/2016/05/02/the-plight-of-kristine-bunch/
https://casetext.com/case/bunch-v-united-states-11
https://vocal.media/criminal/the-story-of-kristine-bunch-how-arson-investigators-sent-a-woman-to-prison-for-more-than-17-years
https://law.justia.com/cases/indiana/court-of-appeals/2012/16a05-1007-pc-439.html
https://casetext.com/case/bunch-v-frank-1
https://cwc.law.northwestern.edu/freed-exonerated/kristine-bunch/
https://www.happyscribe.com/public/wrongful-conviction-podcasts/wrongful-conviction-with-jason-flom-kristine-bunch
https://www.nprillinois.org/news/2019-10-23/kristine-bunch-life-after-a-wrongful-conviction
https://www.jacksonvilleprogress.com/opinion/columns/17-years-in-prison-for-a-crime-she-did-not-commit/article_9dcec81a-5477-11ed-8e09-f38e5a50d3a0.html
https://woffordogb.com/20131/news/the-wrongful-conviction-of-kristine-bunch/
https://www.law.northwestern.edu/legalclinic/wrongfulconvictions/exonerations/in/kristine-bunch.html
https://www.wfyi.org/news/articles/the-price-of-freedom
This is the FINALE of the David Michael Crawford serial arson case. In this episode we share some updates with you. We discuss the prosecution's rebuttal of the defense's closing arguments. The jury's verdict. The sentence handed down by the judge and some of Crawford's statements at sentencing. We discuss the grounds for appeal and we'll give you a bit of information on some other fires that occurred in the area and have some ties to David Crawford although we'll have to wait for the full investigation reports to bring you the whole story. We'll obviously bring you follow up episodes as this case is up for appeal but we're officially putting the David Crawford serial arson case down here until we have new information to share with you. This is a case I've spent the better part of a year working on now and I want to share a very special thank you to every single person that has reached out throughout this process. Your help was so greatly appreciated.
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Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
For a full list of sources, Please refer to Episode 22.
In this episode of the David Michael Crawford Serial Arson Case, we finally get into the defense and closing arguments that the jury heard as they considered whether or not Crawford should be found guilty for 8 counts of first degree attempted murder. I have to admit, the defense strategy isn't what I expected, but did it work? Listen now to find out.
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Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
For a full list of sources, Please refer to Episode 22.
This week on Crime to Burn, we cover the second fire Crawford was convicted of setting at Evelyn and Scott Henderson's home. Evelyn and Scott were weeks away from moving back into the home Crawford had burned once already while they slept inside after a 9 month rebuilding process. The family still had no idea who had targeted them or why but with two fires at their home, there was no doubt someone out in the world was targeting their family. The fear of not knowing who or why and the constant worry that they might attack again plagued this family for 5 years awaiting Crawford's identification, investigation, arrest, and conviction. Listen now on Crime to Burn.
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Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
For a full list of sources, Please refer to Episode 22.
In Part 7 of the David Michael Crawford Serial Arson Case, we address the final name on Crawford's "target list" found by investigators in his phone. The entry simply read "Evelyn 2" which sounds as benign as a dinner reservation. However, this entry represents a living nightmare for one Howard County family. Crawford was charged with attempting to kill them in their home by burning it down while they slept. He was convicted of attempted murder but his case is currently pending appeal in Maryland. Listen now to the 7th part in the David Crawford arson saga right now on Crime to Burn.
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Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
For a full list of sources, Please refer to Episode 22.
In this sixth part of the David Michael Crawford serial arson case, we cover two more of the fires Crawford is accused of setting. The first fire is a truck fire belonging to the son of a former colleague of Crawford's. The second is the home of a husband and wife chiropractor team that had treated Crawford. Then we take all the fires we've covered and put them into chronological order along with the electronic evidence that police found when they executed the search warrant at Crawford's home. Let me tell you, some of the information they found will shock you. Find out why right now on Crime to Burn.
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Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
For a full list of sources, Please refer to Episode 22.
In Part 5 of the David Michael Crawford Serial Arson Case, we have brand new information provided by people that knew Crawford and are familiar with the case plus we have the police reports in the alleged harassment Crawford is accused of committing against his own daughter. We also begin digging into the list of victims found on Crawford's phone. We'll even tell you about a celebrity connection to this case and explore another one of the fires Crawford is accused of setting. So, buckle up buttercup, this case is getting wild. Crawford's appeal in Howard County, Maryland is currently pending in September 2024.
No children were hobbled or duct taped in recording this episode.
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Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.
For a full list of sources, Please refer to Episode 22. New sources are Anne Arundel Police reports for case numbers:
2008-736872
2008-741829
2009-704937
2009-706227
2009-706380
2010-708976
2010-708966
2010-733274
2010-736412
2010-708933
In part 4 of the David Michael Crawford case, we get into some truly horrifying allegations made by David's daughter Carrie against her father. We don't have any proof that David is responsible for these crimes but Carrie made allegations in several news sources after her dad was found guilty. If these allegations are true, one word comes to mind: psychopath. If these allegations are true, it's horrifying to think that Crawford had a more than 30 year career as a cop. Tune in now to hear the continuation of the serial arsonist case that rocked Maryland for over a decade.
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Please refer to Episode 22: Part 1 of the David Michael Crawford case for full list of sources and important disclaimers.
You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and X. Please consider leaving us a 5 star review wherever you listen to your podcasts and we'd be so grateful if you'd subscribe to our youtube channel.
This week we continue the saga of the David Michael Crawford serial arson case. Today we dig deep into family drama that allegedly resulted in three separate fires targeting a single family. The most shocking part is that the family targeted was that of David Crawford's own stepson. But the drama doesn't end here. Crawford's own daughter has some really insane allegations to lob at her father that have nothing to do with the serial arson case. This already unbelievable case is about to go completely off the rails.
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Please refer to Episode 22, Part 1 of the David Michael Crawford case for full list of sources and important disclaimers.
You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and X. Please consider leaving us a 5 star review wherever you listen to your podcasts and we'd be so grateful if you'd subscribe to our youtube channel.
This week we continue our in-depth coverage of the David Michael Crawford serial arson case. Crawford was a retired police chief that spent over 30 years serving the citizens of Baltimore City, Prince George's County, District Heights, and finally ending his career as the Chief of Police for the City of Laurel, MD. After he retired, he is accused of having spent the next 10 years on an arson spree over at least 6 Maryland counties. This week we continue the story covering two more of the alleged fires that were presented in Crawford's jury trial in Howard County. Crawford was convicted for some of his alleged crimes, however, an appeal is currently pending. We've dug deep into this case talking to people that knew Crawford, listening to the court recordings from his trial, and looking into his history as a cop. Get the entire story on Crime to Burn.
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Please see the show notes in Part 1 of this case (Episode 22) for a complete list of sources. We also ask that you listen to the important disclaimers in Part 1.
See below for timestamps!
In today's episode we kick off the case of David Michael Crawford, a retired Maryland Police Chief turned serial arsonist. We will be starting with the first arson in a series he was linked to in court with a fire at the home of a fellow city employee. We're bringing you a deep dive into a case I've been researching for over 6 months and currently this case is pending appeal in Maryland. Join us as we dive into one twisted and shocking serial arson case on Crime to Burn.
We begin this case with many disclaimers and explanations about evidence, sources, and testimony in this case and they are important. I have provided time stamps below in case you wish to fast forward to the case but the disclaimers will provide you with additional insight into the judicial process and criminal court cases.
Timestamps:
Disclaimers begin at 2:49
2:49 - 4:08 - A discussion about crimes the defendant has been convicted of and the difference between accused and convicted.
4:08 - 5:06 - An explanation of some evidence presented in court related to fires other than the ones for which he was standing trial.
5:06 - 6:44 - A discussion of the defendant's wife and explanation that she is not accused of being involved nor of having knowledge of her husband's crimes.
6:44 - 8:25 - Discussion of crimes unrelated to the arsons presented in court which members of the defendant's immediate family indicated in press reports they suspect Crawford's involvement.
8:25 - 10:27 - Explanation of court recordings and bench conversations and differentiating between what can be gleaned from the court recordings verses what was known to the jury. Also includes a discussion of hearsay, probative value of evidence and testimony, and prejudicial testimony.
10:27 - 11:45 - Discussion of state's burden in criminal cases and constitutional rights of defendants to not testify.
11:45 - 13:17: Discussion of off the record sources used for this podcast and a reminder that all witnesses are off-limits until the conclusion of the appeal.
13:17 - 15:34 - My own personal implicit bias due to my involvement in some of the organizations involved in this case.
15:34 - 17:05 - Discussion of what court records were obtained and what records were not used and why.
17:05 - 18:12 - Discussion about defense attorney. UPDATE AFTER RECORDING: Mr. Bonsib did reply to my email and provided the appellate brief but has indicated that given the pending appeal, he does not feel it would be appropriate to discuss the case with me. I understand and respect his decision.
18:12 - 20:27 - Discussion about narrative storytelling and using emotions to drive the narrative and a reminder that these perspectives used for storytelling are not intended to imply guilt or innocence of the defendant. Also discussion about authentically presenting the emotions and implications of others and not my own.
20:27 END OF DISCLAIMERS.
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Sources used:
Application for Statement of Charges against David Michael Crawford of Ellicott City, MD to the District Court of Maryland filed 3/2/2021; D-101-CR-21-000235. https://www.scribd.com/document/497270007/Charging-Docs-David-Michael-Crawford
Court Recordings from Circuit Court for Howard County - Criminal Case C-13-CR-21-000152. State of Maryland vs. David Michael Crawford. Dates of 2/27/2023 through 3/9/2023.
In the Appellate Court of Maryland, David Michael Crawford (Appellant) v. State of Maryland (Appellee). Appeal from the Circuit Court for Howard County Opening Brief and Appendix of the Appellant.
Personal communications with persons familiar with David Michael Crawford. (off-the-record interviews)
Mann, Alex. "Former Laurel police chief craved authroity, set fires for revenge, Howard prosecutors say." Baltimore Sun, Mar 1, 2023.
Mann, Alex. "Ex-Laurel police chief contacted victims after series of arson fires. He's accused of keeping enemies list, starting blazes." Baltimore Sun. (no date provided in copy used)
Mann, Alex. "'Arson Destroys Persons': Former Laurel Police Chief sentenced to life for Howard County fires." Baltimore Sun. June 27, 2023
Faguy, Ana et. al. "Retired Maryland police chief used arson for vendettas, prosecutors say; a stirring dog may have saved one family." Baltimore Sun, Mar 4, 2021.
Henderson, Evelyn Palattella. "My neighbor and former Police Chief burned down my house twice." Medium. Mar 9, 2021.
Morse, Dan. "Serial arsonist tracked through dog hair, surveilance video and grudges, officials allege." The Washington Post March 4, 2021.
"Testimony from arson victims, including suspects own family, suggest fires set out of revenge." https://www.wbaltv.com/article/david-crawford-arson-trial-fire-victims-testimony/43162693. Accessed Mar 15, 2024.
Chappell, Bill. "A former Police Chief in MD. Was A 'Serial Arsonist,' Authorities Say." https://www.npr.org/2021/03/04/973696073/a-former-police-chief-in-md-was-a-serial-arsonist-authorities-say. NPR. Mar 4, 2021. Accessed Mar 15, 2021.
Fenton, Justin. "Ex-police chief's daughter details terrorizing act in court filing." The Washington Post. May 9 2021.
Murchison, Joe. "Arsonist's twisted trail." Streetcar Suburbs News. https://streetcarsuburbs.news/arsonists-twisted-trail/ Accessed Mar 15, 2024.
Former Laurel police chief gets life sentences in arson case. WBAL-TV 11 Baltimore. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyJM2ndLt4U
Former Maryland Police Chief Sentenced to Life In Prison in Arson Cases. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/video/former-maryland-police-chief-sentenced-to-life-in-prison-in-arson-cases-185384517841
"Former Maryland police chief accused fo setting 12 "revenge fires" sentenced to multiple life terms. CBS News. Jun 28, 2023. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/david-crawford-revenge-fires-ex-maryland-police-chief-sentenced-multiple-life-terms/
David Crawford LinkedIn Page, Ellicott City, Maryland, United States. https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-crawford-47537813b
Morse, Dan. "Former Maryland police chief gets life prison terms for arson spree." The Washington Post, https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2023/06/27/david-crawford-arson-life-sentences/
Palmer, Emily. "Ex Maryland Police Chief Set 12 'Revenge fires,' Gets Multiple Life Sentences. People Magazine. Updated Jun 28, 2023. https://people.com/ex-maryland-police-chief-revenge-fires-multiple-life-sentences-7554649
Carballo, Rebecca. "Ex-Police Chief in Maryland Gets Multiple Life Terms in Series of Arsons." The New York times. Jun 27, 2023.
Gilstrap, Samantha. "Former police Chief handed 8 life sentences for series of arsons across Maryland." WUSA9. Updated Jun 27, 2023. https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/former-laurel-police-chief-handed-8-life-sentences-for-series-of-arsons-across-maryland/65-f242e76b-c648-4077-91b3-b983a008fcaf
Neammanee, Pocharapon. "Former Police Chief Who Set Series of Fires as Revenge Sentenced to Life in Prison." Huffpost. Jun 28, 2023. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/police-chief-arson-revenge-life-sentence_n_649c6017e4b0cd6f7df15fc7
Lambe, Jerry. "Evil and terrifying: Ex-police chief gets 8 life sentences for setting series of fires targeting rivals and people he believed slighted him." Law & Crime. Jun 28, 2023, https://lawandcrime.com/crime/evil-and-terrifying-ex-police-chief-gets-8-life-sentences-for-setting-series-of-fires-targeting-rivals-and-people-he-believed-slighted-him/
Duffy, Ken. "Former Laurel Police Chief David Crawford gets life sentences in arson cases." WBAL News Radio. Jun 27, 2023. https://www.wbal.com/former-laurel-police-chief-david-crawford-gets-life-sentences-in-arson-cases/
Massie, Graeme. "Ex-Maryland police chief senntenced to life for string of revenge arson attacks." The Independent. Los Angeles. Jun 28, 2023. https://www.the-independent.com/news/world/americas/crime/maryland-police-chief-arson-sentencing-b2365958.html
Skene, Lea. "Ex-police chief convicted in 4 arsons targeting his enemies." AP News. 9 Mar 2023. https://apnews.com/article/maryland-police-chief-convicted-arson-31f2c9e5c38891415c18ffc901361e86
VerHeist, Megan. "Ex-MD Police Chief Accused of Arson Kept 'Target list': Reports. Mar 2, 2023. https://patch.com/maryland/ellicottcity/ex-md-police-chief-accused-arson-kept-target-list-reports
Reed, Lillian. "Former Laurel police chief gets two life sentences plus 75 years for setting fires." The Baltimore Banner, Jun 27, 2023.
Osborne, Mark. "Former police chief facing dozens of attempted murder charges in alleged arsons." 6ABC Philadelphia. Mar 4, 2021.
News Release - Office of the State's Attorney for Howard County. Ellicott City Resident David Crawford Sentenced to Mu;tiple Life Sentences Plus 75 Years in Serial Arson Case. https://howardcountysao.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/David-Crawford-Sentencing-6.27.23.pdf
Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department. "Serial Arsonist Arrested in Multi-Jurisdictional Investigation." Mar 3, 2021. https://pgfdpio.blogspot.com/2021/03/serial-arsonist-arrested-in-multi.html
Leonard, Kevin. "Crawford's Reign of Terror." Voices of Laurel., https://www.voicesoflaurel.com/post/crawford-s-reign-of-terror
Riess, Rebekah et. al. "Former police chief is facing charges over fires authorities say were linked to people he had disagreements with." CNN US. Mar 4, 2021. https://www.cnn.com/2021/03/04/us/maryland-former-chief-attempted-murder-arson-charges/index.html
"Daughter of Laurel Police Chief Turned Alleged Arsonist David Crawford Speaks Out." WJZ. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58Kvo7Ac57s
Swalec, Andrea. "Ex-Police Chief Suspected in Maryland "Revenge" Arsons Kept List of Targets: Officials." NBC 4 Washington. Mar 4, 2021. https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/ex-police-chief-suspected-in-maryland-revenge-arsons-kept-list-of-targets-officials/2595652/
Bonessi, Dominique Maria. "Former Md. Police Chief Arrested in Connection to a Dozen Arson Attacks." DCist. Mar 3, 2021. https://dcist.com/story/21/03/03/laurel-maryland-police-chief-david-crawford-arson-fires/
Stabley, Matthew, et. al. "Former Police Chief Accused of Maryland Arsons Over Decade." NBC 4 Washington. Mar 3, 2021. https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/former-police-chief-charged-in-series-of-arsons-in-maryland-since-2011/2594009/
TooFab Staff. "Police Finally Catch Serial Arson Suspect After Decade of Fire Attacks - And It's Their Former Chief." TooFab. Mar 5, 2021. https://toofab.com/2021/03/05/police-finally-catch-serial-arson-suspect-after-decade-of-fire-attacks-and-its-their-former-chief/
Baumgart, Jacob. "Stepson's House Fires Tied To Former Laurel Police Chief: Report." Bowie Patch. May 13, 2021. https://patch.com/maryland/bowie/stepsons-house-fires-tied-former-laurel-police-chief-report
I have been researching this case for over 6 months and have made a good faith effort to include all relevant sources. I will update this list as required during the course of this series. If I discover I have omitted a source from this list, I will correct it as soon as I recognize the omission. It's completely possible that I've stashed some papers in some bag or corner I missed while compiling my sources for this reference list. Please reach out to me at crimetoburn@gmail.com if you have concerns.
In 1995, after weeks of harassment, a restaurant owned by an immigrant family was set aflame with one of the family members inside the building. She managed to escape and an enraged community rallied in support of the family and to decry the racism that had nearly cost them a neighbor. Police worked quickly and it wasn't long until they were able to make an arrest in this horrific crime. However, the identify of the arsonist only fanned the flames in Fargo, North Dakota. Find out why on this episode of Crime to Burn
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Sources used:
https://www.inforum.com/news/the-vault/hate-crime-turned-hoax-shocked-fargo-moorhead-in-1995
https://casetext.com/case/kabob-house-inc-v-houston-gen-ins-co
https://www.interfire.org/res_file/acb_kh.asp
https://www.nytimes.com/1995/11/04/us/a-case-of-an-ethnic-attack-is-called-a-hoax.html
https://www.chicagotribune.com/1995/10/25/north-dakota-woman-survives-alleged-hate-crime/
https://www.spokesman.com/stories/1995/oct/25/iranian-woman-crawls-to-safety-after-attack/
It's one of the weirdest cases of arson I've ever heard. A one-eyed hitman, an adult entertainment and novelty empire, cocaine, tax fraud, hand grenades, bombings, and of course, arson... actually a few arsons. There's no easy way to sum up this case neatly in one coherent description so you're just going to need to go click play and make sure you're sitting down because this case has more crazy than you can shake a rubber anatomically correct appendage at. Join us to find out how "stiff" competition led to this faux phallus flambé on Crime to Burn.
Please follow us on Instagram, Facebook and X. You can email us feedback at crimetoburn@gmail.com. We would appreciate a 5 star review on whatever platform you use to listen. You can now listen to Crime to Burn on our YouTube Channel.
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Sources used:
https://archive.findlaw.com/blog/federal-lawsuit-dueling-porn-stores-turned-to-arson-fraud/
https://www.seattlepi.com/seattlenews/article/Prosecutor-Repeat-porn-shop-arsonist-for-hire-5066978.php
https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdwa/pr/vancouver-man-pleads-guilty-arson-conspiracy
https://casetext.com/case/bookstore
https://www.oregonlive.com/portland/2013/11/michael_wright_cocaine_crackin.html
https://www.oregonlive.com/portland/2013/11/michael_wright_right_2_dream_t.html
https://www.vice.com/en/article/vdxa3x/the-porn-store-rivalry-involving-arson-assassination-plots-and-a-one-eyed-outlaw
On this Episode of Crime to Burn, we cover what happens when good animals go bad. From feathered friends joining together to commit arson to beavers chewing their way into felonious behavior, and even the offspring of dear old Smokey the Bear burning down cabins, we're bringing you a series of tails... er tales about animals that started fires. And before you go thinking that all animal-involved conflagrations are accidental and lack intent, you better listen because there is one particular animal that scientists believe intentionally sets fires. Join us to hear all about arsonists of the animal world on Crime to Burn.
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Background Music: Ass Blaster Scarab by Not Notoriously Coordinated
Sources used:
https://phys.org/news/2016-04-echidnas-survive.html https://www.badancient.com/claims/incendiary-pigs/ https://www.ch.ic.ac.uk/local/projects/gondhia/history.html https://www.wpxi.com/news/local/butler-county-family-believes-fire-that-left-them-homeless-was-sparked-by-their-pet-pig/ELJUIU2Q3VFWXB4YFOTPRPMDMI/ https://www.firerescue1.com/fire-attack/articles/curious-pig-blamed-for-starting-ny-barn-fire-uuFMF7rWHESu7TlX/ https://www.postandcourier.com/ap/pig-blamed-for-setting-south-carolina-deputys-home-on-fire/article_af227264-ea20-11e6-907a-57579d7f37df.html https://greatchicagofire.org/oleary-legend/ https://www.saturdayeveningpost.com/2021/10/considering-history-mrs-olearys-cow-didnt-start-the-great-chicago-fire-why-does-it-matter/ https://www.yahoo.com/news/cat-blamed-starting-fire-during-150403331.html#:~:text=An%20Ohio%20woman%20says%20her,burner%2C%20Jordan%20Miller%20News%20reported. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10366405/Arsonist-cats-blame-100-house-fires-turn-touch-sensitive-cookers.html https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Sipek https://www.reddit.com/r/todayilearned/comments/5z4plg/til_steve_sipek_who_played_tarzan_in_tarzan_and/ https://nypost.com/2015/11/11/forget-smokey-bear-elephants-are-now-fighting-forest-fires/ https://kmph.com/news/local/bears-on-a-rampage-local-homeowners-at-camp-nelson-demand-action-after-cabin-incineration https://cdllife.com/2019/falling-bear-blamed-for-highway-fire-destruction-of-cop-car/ https://www.clarkpest.com/residential-service-blog-old/ants-cause-fire-$80-000-in-damages-get-ant-control#:~:text=When%20the%20ants%20hit%20an,wires%20become%20an%20insect%20highway. https://www.firefighternation.com/wildland/ants-blamed-for-650-acre-fort-davis-tx-wildland-fire/#gref https://www.recordcourier.com/news/2001/dec/19/washington-state-fire-blamed-on-incinerated-grassh/#:~:text=A%20grasshopper%20that%20jumped%20on,the%20area's%20wildfire%20coordination%20agency. https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20230922-these-la-goats-help-stop-wildfires https://www.firehouse.com/home/news/10469822/alligator-blamed-for-starting-pennsylvania-fire https://www.firehouse.com/home/news/10508473/meowing-frog-prompts-8-hour-search-of-florida-home https://www.iawfonline.org/article/when-prescribed-fire-faces-a-plague-of-pigs/ https://wildfiretoday.com/tag/animal-arson/page/4/
https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/do-rhinos-really-stomp-out-fires.htm https://bioone.org/journals/journal-of-ethnobiology/volume-37/issue-4/0278-0771-37.4.700/Intentional-Fire-Spreading-by-Firehawk-Raptors-in-Northern-Australia/10.2993/0278-0771-37.4.700.full https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_pig https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Sipek https://911animalabuse.com/steve-sipek-tarzan/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bombardier_beetle
https://www.sciencefocus.com/nature/could-any-creature-evolve-to-breathe-fire-like-a-dragon
https://corvidresearch.blog/tag/crows-stealing-candles/
https://bioone.org/journals/journal-of-ethnobiology/volume-37/issue-4/0278-0771-37.4.700/Intentional-Fire-Spreading-by-Firehawk-Raptors-in-Northern-Australia/10.2993/0278-0771-37.4.700.full
This is the finale of the Benson Car Bombing Case. You'll finally find out the fate of Steven Benson. But don't get too comfortable, this episode is all brand new twists and turns. There are errors in discovery, errors discovered in testimony, and most shocking, a witness attempts to recant their entire statement to the prosecution. Join us now to find out how this insane case concludes.
We'd love to hear what you think about this series. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com or you can reach out to us through social media. We're on X, Instagram, and Facebook.
Thank you to everyone for following along on this case. It's been a ton of work but everyone's positive comments and support has made all the effort worth it for us.
We'd love a 5 star rating and positive review on whatever platform you use to listen.
See Episode 11, Part 1 of the Benson Car Bombing Case for a full list of sources used throughout this series.
On this seventh part of the Benson Car Bombing case we go through what happened in the trial. We'll cover the prosecution and defense strategies and the witnesses for each side. There are even more bombshells in the course of the court trial so strap in for a wild one.
For a complete list of sources, see Part 1 of the Benson Car Bombing case and please listen to Part 1 for important disclaimers.
Please be sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and X and subscribe to our YouTube Channel. We'd love to hear what you think of this series.
We'd appreciate a 5 star review on whatever platform you use to listen!
In this sixth part of the Benson Family Car Bombing Case we discuss exactly how the police conducted their investigation into the horrific car bombing that severely injured Carol Lynn Benson Kendall and killed her mother and adopted brother. We unearth some serious concerns. Is it possible for anyone to get a fair trial with the way the police manipulated witness statements to get the warrants they wanted? You be the judge.
See part 1 for all source information and some important disclaimers.
Please be sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and X and subscribe to our youtube channel. We'd love to hear what you think of this series.
We'd appreciate a 5 star review on whatever platform you use to listen!
In part 5 of the Benson Car Bombing Case, we get into questions of Margaret Benson's will as well as the physical evidence they were able to find. We also go through some of the points of Carol Lynn's official statement to police including her absolutely unhinged accusations about Steven's wife. We also discuss some first-of-their-kind legal maneuvers that investigtors used to tie a suspect to the evidence. Did investigators behave ethically? Listen now to find out.
Refer to the show notes for Episode 11 for the full list of sources used for this series.
You can reach us at crimetoburn@gmail.com and we're also on X, Facebook and Instagram. Be sure to subscribe to our youtube channel also. The best compliment you can give to any podcast you enjoy is a 5 star rating and review.
In this fourth instalment of the Benson Car Bombing Case, we get into the investigation of the horrific crime that killed Margaret and Scott Benson and severely injured Carol Lynn. Police begin to develop a list of suspects and we start discussing who would have motive, means, and opportunity.
Refer to the show notes for Episode 11 for the full list of sources used.
Be sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, X or email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com. We appreciate your positive reviews and we're happy to accept constructive feedback at our email address or through social media.
As we continue the Benson Family Car Bombing Case, we'll look even deeper into the family history. We'll learn some shocking bombshells about Carol Lynn's past that remained buried until the investigation into the bombing unearthed them and laid them bare in the press for the entire world to see. In addition, we learn about Scott and his addiction to fast cars, drugs, girls, and delusions about a professional tennis career. Scott also left in his wake plenty of angry people, could one of them have plotted to murder the entire family?
Crime to Burn is a true crime podcast about criminal fires. Creator and co-host, April, is a former firefighter and a fire protection engineer with over 20 years of industry experience. Her husband joins her as co-host and he's seen the movie Backdraft at least twice.
Please see the show notes for Episode 11: The Benson Car Bombing Case Part 1 for a full list of sources for this episode.
Follow us on instagram, facebook and X and be sure to subscribe to our youtube channel.
In part 2 of the Benson Car Bombing Case we dive into the Benson family's history to understand the dynamics at play so we can better understand who they were and who might want to hurt them.
For a detailed list of sources, please refer to the show notes for Episode 11: The Benson Car Bombing Case Part 1.
Follow Crime to Burn on X, Facebook, and Instagram for frequent updates and news. You can also email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com. You can also listen to us on youtube now, search for Crime to Burn and be sure to hit subscribe.
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We're back after a very long hiatus with a new co-host and a new horrific case. In July 1985, a widowed tobacco heiress and her three children were preparing to leave for an errand when their Chevrolet Suburban exploded in their driveway, killing Margaret Benson and her son, Scott and severely injuring her daughter, Carol Lynn. Unraveling this case exposes the soft white underbelly of a wealthy yet dysfunctional family including dark family secrets, decades of manipulation, and a cancerous greed. But who could hate the Bensons enough to want the entire family dead?
Sources:
Mewshaw, M. (2001). Money to Burn, The True Story of the Benson Family Murders. Touchstone
Greenya, J. (1987). Blood Relations, The Exclusive Inside Story of the Benson Family Murders. Harcourt Brace Jovanovitch; Blook Club Edition
State of Florida vs. Steven Wayne Benson Case Number 85778CFA31HDH court records from Collier County Circuit Court in Collier County, FL.
Stauffer, C., (1987, July 23, updated 1987, July 27). The Bensons: Lancaster family ripped apart by greed and murder 30 years ago. https://lancasteronline.com/news/local/the-bensons-lancaster-family-ripped-apart-by-greed-and-murder-30-years-ago/article_f83a6526-312e-11e5-833e-479fc52b5ae4.html
Bovsun, M., (2022, July 2). Justince Story: Greed leeds to tobacco heiress fiery death. https://www.nydailynews.com/2022/07/02/justice-story-greed-leads-to-tobacco-heiresss-fiery-death/
Stauffer, C., (2015, July 27, updated 2015, July 28). Anger and lonliness: Steven Benson's life in prison after he killed his family members. https://lancasteronline.com/news/local/danger-and-loneliness-steven-bensons-life-in-prison-after-he-killed-his-family-members/article_4a499c3c-31fd-11e5-834c-674601e629e0.html
Batten, B., (2016, April 1). Medical Examiner says Benson was stabbed to death in prison. https://www.naplesnews.com/story/news/local/2016/04/01/medical-examiner-says-benson-was-stabbed-to-death-in-prison/85873180/
Greenya, J., (1986, August 8). Benson Found Guilty of Murder. The Washington Post, https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/lifestyle/1986/08/08/benson-found-guilty/4d1327bc-9329-48a1-88b4-80b4614adfe2/
Hardy, J., (1986, July 28). Benson murder trial is soap opera material. UPI Archives. https://www.upi.com/Archives/1986/07/28/Benson-murder-trial-is-soap-opera-material/4992522907200/
Myers, B., (2023, Feb 23). Steven Benson's Motivation for Blowing Up His Mother, Tobacco Heiress Margaret Benson. Grunge. https://www.grunge.com/1208374/steven-bensons-motivation-for-blowing-up-his-mother-tobacco-heiress-margaret-benson/
Florida Man Murders, Season 1, Episode 3 on Oxygen. https://www.oxygen.com/florida-man-murders/season-1/episode-3/videos/investigators-recall-benson-family-murders-crime
Greenya, J., (1986, Aug 6). In Florida murder most malevolent. The Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/lifestyle/1986/08/07/in-florida-murder-most-malevolent/3c1c9fb0-560b-4b40-8185-fc701724d936/
Saunders, S., (2020). Reason First: American Car Bomb - The Steven Benson Murders. Criminal. https://vocal.media/criminal/reason-first-american-car-bomb-the-steven-benson-murders
District Court of Appeal of Florida, Second District., (1989, Sept. 1). In re Estate of Benson. Casetext. https://casetext.com/case/in-re-estate-of-benson
Burchett, C., (2018, Oct. 20). State's misstep triggers mistrial. Perry News-Herald. https://medium.com/@cait.burchett/so-there-is-no-way-to-prove-you-did-not-do-it-correct-2b01be15e9c6
Crimebox., (2022, Jun 7). The Murder of Margaret Benson [Video]. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2Eebt9XTkU
Stauffer, C., (2015, Jul 17). Man who blew up his tobacco heiress mother and brother dies in Florida prison. Lancaster Online. https://lancasteronline.com/news/local/man-who-blew-up-his-tobacco-heiress-mother-and-brother-dies-in-florida-prison/article_7070299a-2bd0-11e5-b3a0-eb16fc0eb50a.html
Nordheimer, J., (1986, Aug 7). Florida Murder Trial that Bared Secrets of the Rich Nears End. NY Times. https://www.nytimes.com/1986/08/07/us/florida-murder-trial-that-bared-secrets-of-the-rich-nears-end.html
Hardy, J. (1986, Jul 24). Tobacco heiress Margaret Benson had 'heated discussions' with her... . UPI Archives. https://www.upi.com/Archives/1986/07/24/Tobacco-heiress-Margaret-Benson-had-heated-discussions-with-her/1629522561600/
(1986, Aug 18). All in the Family. Time. https://time.com/archive/6706871/all-in-the-family-8/
(1985, Jul. 11). Murder of 'Quiet' Heiress, son stuns exclusive area. Sun Sentinel. https://www.sun-sentinel.com/1985/07/11/murder-of-quiet-heiress-son-stuns-exclusive-area/
Nordheimer, J., (1985, July 15). Florida Resort Shocked over Car-Bomb Slayings. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/1985/07/15/us/florida-resort-shocked-over-car-bomb-slayings.html
Cottrill, C., (2016, Aug 3), 30 years ago: Sensational Benson murder trial garnered headlines. Naples Daily News. https://www.naplesnews.com/story/news/local/communities/the-banner/2016/08/03/30-years-ago-sensational-benson-murder-trial-garnered-headlines/87953310/
Bearak, B., (1986, Jun 30)., Tobacco Heir Charged in Bombing Deaths of Relatives., Los Angeles Times. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1986-06-30-mn-19-story.html
United Press International., (1986, Aug 5). Defense Rests in Benson Murder Case After Golfer Testifies. Los Angeles Times. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1986-08-05-mn-1395-story.html
Contributed Content., (1988, Apr 13)., Chidren of Mother-Killer Inherit Heiress' Estate. Chicago Tribune. https://www.chicagotribune.com/1988/04/13/children-of-mother-killer-inherit-heiress-estate/
(1987, May 29). Woman Loses Child's Claim to Benson Estate. Orlando Sentinel. https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1987/05/29/woman-loses-childs-claim-to-benson-estate/
TFIGlobal News Desk., (2021, Dec 14). Carol Lynn Benson sent her brother to justice. TFIGlobal News. https://tfiglobalnews.com/2021/12/14/carol-lynn-benson-sent-her-brother-to-justice/
Superior Court of Pennsylvania., (1992, Nov 6) In re Benson, Casetext. https://casetext.com/case/in-re-benson-30
Join us for the highly anticipated conclusion to the case of the Steamboat Sultana. This week we return to the Mississippi River for the investigations that followed the explosion, fire, and sinking of the Steamboat Sultana that was carrying over 2,000 Union POWs following the Civil War. Was this negligence? Was it a terrible accident? Or was it sabotage and intentional murder? We'll give you the evidence for you to decide.
Visit the Sultana Museum and consider contributing to their current brick drive here: https://www.sultanadisastermuseum.com/
Book Sources:
Sultana, A Case for Sabotage by D. H. Rule
The Sultana Tragedy by Jerry O. Potter
Loss of the Sultana and Reminiscences of Survivors compiled by Rev. Chester D. Berry.
Documentary Sources:
History Detectives Special Investigations: Civil War Sabotage (PBS)
In Search of History - Sultana: Mississippi's Titanic (The History Channel)
Join us as we step back in history to the close of the US Civil War when one of the largest maritime disasters in US history claimed the lives of 1,800 people on the Mississippi River. The tragic explosion and subsequent fire on the Steamboat Sultana was so greatly overshadowed by other events at the time, that less than 2% of Americans surveyed knew about the disaster. However, this story includes criminal negligence, bribery, and corruption that leads all the way to the front door of the White House. In addition, there are even allegations of sabotage. How did such a massive tragedy become just a footnote in American History? We'll explain.
Book Sources:
Sultana, A Case for Sabotage by D. H. Rule
The Sultana Tragedy by Jerry O. Potter
Loss of the Sultana and Reminiscences of Survivors compiled by Rev. Chester D. Berry.
Documentary Sources:
History Detectives Special Investigations: Civil War Sabotage (PBS)
In Search of History - Sultana: Mississippi's Titanic (The History Channel)
We're finally back with the incredibly tardy conclusion to the John Orr case (aka: the Frito Bandito or the Pillowcase Pyro). If you haven't listened to parts 1 and 2, go do that before you listen to this part. But we owe you a huge apology. April's husband spent the summer without the use of one of his legs and as the only adult in the house with two working legs while undergoing a home renovation project and working a full time job, April had to put the pod on hold for a couple months. But we are back! Thanks for being so patient with us, we can't wait to get back into the swing of things!
This week we continue our series on the prolific arsonist once known as the Frito Bandito or the Pillowcase Pyro that terrorized California in the late 1980s. This week's episode brings you a plot twist as the investigators struggle to bring this horrific arsonist to justice.
Sources will be released with the last episode of the series.
Want to support the podcast? You can buy us a coffee at:
https://ko-fi.com/crimetoburn
What started as a normal day in October of 1984 quickly turned to horror as a serial arsonist claimed 4 lives in a fire he set at an Ole's Hardware store in California. In Part 1, we'll cover his most deadly fire and how he achieved such nicknames as "The Pillow Pyro" and "The Frito Bandito." Will he be caught? Will all his crimes catch up to him? Listen to find out. Welcome to Crime to Burn created and hosted by Jenny and April.
Sources will be posted with part 2 so as not to reveal any spoilers.
In part 2 of this series dedicated to the memory of Reno Firefighter Mike Lackore, we get into the investigation and criminal trial following the Mizpah Hotel Fire in Reno, NV. Mike was on one of the first responding units to the Mizpah Hotel fire that occurred on Halloween night in 2006 in Reno, NV. This multi-fatality fire had a profound mental impact on the firefighters that reported to the scene and Mike Lackore’s good friend Battalion Chief Roger Mooney shared with me that he and Mike were forever changed by the horrific events of that night. Mike passed away in 2011 but this fire always stayed with him and so we dedicate this episode to Mike Lackore’s memory. Join us now as we dive into the Mizpah Hotel Fire including the first hand perspective of Chief Roger Mooney. This is Crime to Burn.
https://www.nevadaappeal.com/news/2006/nov/01/reno-arson-suspect-served-prison-time-for-murder/
https://ijret.org/volumes/2014v03/i23/IJRET20140323014.pdf
https://www.tahoedailytribune.com/news/reno-hotel-fire-suspect-to-stand-trial-on-12-counts-murder-arson/
http://www.iklimnet.com/hotelfires/hotel_fire_news_29.html
https://www.foxnews.com/story/woman-accused-of-setting-reno-hotel-fire-that-killed-6-served-time-in-prison-for-murder
https://www.essaytown.com/subjects/paper/mizpah-hotel-fire-reno-nevada/617038
https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna16711174
https://www.deseret.com/2006/11/2/19982906/suspect-in-reno-hotel-fire-once-convicted-of-murder
https://www.tampabay.com/archive/2007/03/17/woman-to-serve-12-life-terms-for-setting-reno-fire/
http://justicedenied.org/issue/issue_67/kirstin_lobato_attacked_jd67.pdf
https://apnews.com/article/0c51752acbb1fa24e0f928ba6f2a2819
https://www.usdeadlyevents.com/2006-oct-31-arson-fire-mizpah-hotel-on-north-lake-street-reno-nv-12/
This week’s episode is dedicated to the memory of Reno Firefighter Mike Lackore. Mike was on one of the first responding units to the Mizpah Hotel fire that occurred on Halloween night in 2006 in Reno, NV. This multi-fatality fire had a profound mental impact on the firefighters that reported to the scene and Mike Lackore’s good friend Battalion Chief Roger Mooney shared with me that he and Mike were forever changed by the horrific events of that night. Mike passed away in 2011 but this fire always stayed with him and so we dedicate this episode to Mike Lackore’s memory. Join us now as we dive into the Mizpah Hotel Fire including the first hand perspective of Chief Roger Mooney. This is Crime to Burn.
Sources will be provided with Part 2 of this episode.
In our continuation of the investigation of the horrific fire that took the lives of three toddlers in Corsicana, TX, we really pick apart the investigation and the conviction of Cameron Todd Willingham. So, was an innocent man sentenced to death for a tragic accident or was it arson? Join us as we dig deeper into this case.
Sources:
https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2009/09/07/trial-by-fire https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cameron_Todd_Willingham
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gerald_Hurst https://www.themarshallproject.org/2014/08/03/did-texas-execute-an-innocent-man-willingham https://innocenceproject.org/the-texas-forensic-science-commission-and-the-willingham-case/ https://innocenceproject.org/cameron-todd-willingham-wrongfully-convicted-and-executed-in-texas/
In this first of a two-part episode, we explore the horrific fire that took the lives of three toddlers in Corsicana, TX only 3 days before Christmas in 1991. A distraught and injured father told a neighbor to call 911 because his babies were inside his burning home. Was this a tragic accident or was it something more sinister? Join us as we pick apart the investigation and remember the three precious victims.
Stay tuned for Part 2
Sources will be provided after part 2 is available.
On February 16, 1987, Warren Burns, a seasoned firefighter, was a newly appointed fire investigator on duty in Everett, Washington when a fire was reported at Everett Community College, where Burns himself had studied Fire Science. On his way to the scene, he heard the unthinkable over the radio, a firefighter had been separated from his team and was trapped inside the burning Library. The firefighter was Gary Parks, a close personal friend of Burns’. Gary Parks died that night in the line of duty and when the fire was declared arson, Burns’ vowed to never give up on holding the arsonist accountable for the death of his friend. Immediately, there were three main suspects that held the focus of investigators. But Burns along with the Parks family would endure more than three decades of waiting before the arsonist was sentenced in Gary Parks’ murder. This to Crime to Burn.
Crime to Burn is a true crime podcast focused on that intersection where true crime meets arson and criminal negligence. April is a licensed Fire Protection Engineer with 20 years of industry experience and a former firefighter. Jenny is a true crime buff and spent months talking April into taking on this project. Plus, Jenny keeps April from going too deep into the weeds on the science. No boring college science lectures here, it's all true crime, fire, and expert opinions.
Special thanks to Warren Burns, Mike McGill, and Dave Statter
Show sources:
The majority of this Episode is from an interview with former Fire Investigator, Warren Burns.
Other sources:
https://www.upi.com/Archives/1987/02/16/Library-fire-kills-firefighter-hurts-3-others/7739540450000/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lT03m_Icht0
https://www.heraldnet.com/news/solved-arsonist-behind-1987-firefighters-death-was-only-12/
https://www.firefighterclosecalls.com/lodd-history-25-years-later-firefighters-death-in-arson-weighs-on-family-comrades/
https://www.firehouse.com/safety-health/video/21216027/man-admits-to-starting-1987-fire-that-killed-wa-firefighter
https://myeverettnews.com/2021/05/13/judge-sentences-elmer-nash-jr-to-ten-years-in-death-of-everett-firefighter-gary-parks/
https://coffeeordie.com/everett-fire-1987/