Lore Lore 255: Off the Rails
Jun 3, 2024
Explore murder mysteries involving dramatic escapes, train murders, confessions under pressure, and deception in captivating historical accounts. Uncover chilling narratives and shifting perceptions of guilt in a tale of intrigue and suspense.
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Crippen Case Spawned Modern Mystery
- Aaron Mahnke recounts Dr. Crippen murdering his wife Cora and fleeing with his mistress, then being caught after the ship's captain telegraphed authorities.
- This was the first arrest aided by wireless communication and inspired later fiction like Agatha Christie.
Trains Changed Society And Stoked Fear
- Trains quickly became indispensable to British life by moving goods, news, and people far faster than before.
- That rapid change created deep social unease and suspicion about new technology's effects on daily life.
The Empty Bloody Carriage
- On July 9, 1864, a blood-smeared first-class carriage was found empty at Hackney station with no body inside.
- Passengers discovered only a cane, a black bag, and a crushed hat, kicking off Britain's first train murder panic.