Stuff You Should Know

In 1922, a remote Bavarian farm became the haunting scene of a gruesome unsolved murder where six individuals were brutally killed. The unsettling events began with a maid quitting after hearing eerie noises, leading to mysterious footprints in the snow. When concerned neighbors investigated, they discovered a grisly crime scene and unanswered questions. Prime suspects emerged, including a neighbor with suspicious behavior and theories about a possible involvement of supernatural forces. This chilling mystery remains a captivating enigma in true crime history.

Join Josh and Chuck as they plunge into the infamous DB Cooper heist, a daring, unsolved airline hijacking from 1971. They dissect Cooper’s bold demands, the peculiar mix-up with parachutes, and the frantic crew response. Discover the unique challenges in the manhunt and the odd search methods deployed. With thrilling stories of suspicious suspects and modern forensics, they explore how this legendary case reshaped air travel security. Will we ever know the truth about Cooper's fate?

In 1912, a gruesome night in Villisca, Iowa saw eight people murdered in their sleep, raising questions about a mysterious killer. Explore the victims' identities and the brutal crime scene details that shocked a small town. Suspects range from a local businessman with motives to a traveling preacher with suspicious behavior. Theories suggest a serial killer may have roamed the Midwest, linking various murders through eerie patterns. The case remains unresolved and captivates true crime enthusiasts to this day.

In 1982, seven people mysteriously died in Chicago after consuming Extra-Strength Tylenol, leading to national panic. The hosts explore how a trusted medication became a poison and discuss the chaotic aftermath as authorities linked the deaths to cyanide-laced capsules. They detail the rapid collapse of victims and the shocking discovery of tainted bottles in stores. As fear spread and copycat incidents emerged, investigators raced to uncover the truth, suspecting a mad poisoner acting randomly. The gripping story sets the stage for a deeper investigation.

Dive into the chilling Chowchilla school bus kidnapping, America's largest abduction case. Learn about the tense day in 1976, the ingenious escape led by brave children and their bus driver, Ed Ray. Delve into the kidnappers' flawed plans and the community's frantic response. Discover the kidnappers' backgrounds and the shocking details of how law enforcement eventually caught them. Reflect on the emotional aftermath for survivors and how they coped with trauma while the town rallied in support.

The podcast delves into the chilling aftermath of the Chicago Tylenol murders, exploring how the panic spread and impacted global safety standards. Key topics include Johnson & Johnson's crisis response and the introduction of tamper-proof packaging. The discussion profiles various suspects, such as Roger Arnold, who later became a convicted killer, and James Lewis, whose extortion letter led to a tangled investigation. Despite numerous inquiries, the case remains unsolved, leaving a haunting legacy on the victims' families.

Explore the chilling tale of the infamous Bloody Benders, a family who lured unsuspecting travelers to their Kansas homestead in the 1870s. Discover their sinister methods as hosts reveal gruesome discoveries at Drum Creek and a trap door that leads to a cellar of secrets. Tales of eyewitness escapes and the subsequent manhunt highlight the dark fascination with this unsolved mystery. With modern investigations into their identities and cultural references, this story captivates and horrifies, leaving lingering questions about the Benders' fate.

In August 1980, a bomb weighing 1,000 pounds was delivered to Harvey's Casino, igniting a dramatic true crime saga. Hosts explore the sophisticated design of the bomb and its intricate delivery process, including ransom demands and a failed fake money drop. They introduce the mastermind behind the chaos, John Waldo Burgess Sr., and his motives rooted in gambling losses. The aftermath includes massive explosions, chaos at the casino, and the subsequent investigation that led to arrests. The story’s twists keep the suspense alive, even decades later.

Dive into the chilling true crime tale of Ken McElroy, a man whose violent past and legal manipulation left a town in fear. Explore the web of intimidation used to silence witnesses and avoid justice. Discover the dark details of his abusive relationships and the fateful day he was murdered in broad daylight. The aftermath reveals a community's silence and lingering controversies, while law enforcement reflects on their failures. This gripping narrative blends horror and intrigue, showcasing a case that feels at once surreal and all too real.

Explore the harrowing events of the North Hollywood shootout, where a bank robbery turned into a chaotic battle. Learn about the robbers, Larry Phillips and Emil Matasaranu, their obsession with weaponry, and how their extreme planning unfolded on that fateful day. Discover the police's struggle as they faced unprecedented firepower and the controversial aftermath, including legal scrutiny and the impact on police militarization. The shootout's legacy continues to influence cultural narratives, highlighting both tragedy and lessons learned.