Morbid

A chilling tale unfolds around the mass suicide in Rancho Santa Fe, where nearly forty lives were lost in a ritualistic act inspired by a belief in extraterrestrial beings. The discovery of the bodies reveals unsettling details, including prior surgical castrations. The group, fueled by their tech-savvy members, operated a web business, which funded their lifestyle. The narrative weaves in comparisons to Jonestown, alongside the complex life of their leader, Marshall Applewhite. Ultimately, listeners are left to ponder the humanity behind this tragic event.

The chilling story of Kitty Genovese unfolds, revealing the tragic events of March 13, 1964. From her vibrant life as a bartender to a shocking double attack, her tale raises disturbing questions about neighborly indifference. Delving into the myth of thirty-eight witnesses, the hosts debunk the sensational narrative and highlight the real actions of those present during the attack. With insights into the killer's chilling confessions and the media’s role in shaping public perception, the podcast balances tragedy with a critique of societal apathy.

In the summer of 1984, a gruesome murder shocked a quiet Long Island suburb. The brutal killing of Gary Lauwers by his friend Ricky Kasso revealed a tangled web of drug use, occult rumors, and community indifference. As they delve into Ricky's troubled childhood and the rise of satanic panic, the hosts reveal how myth and reality blurred in the aftermath of the crime. The tragic story explores themes of youth vulnerability, societal neglect, and the chilling consequences of sensationalism.

The podcast dives into the enigmatic sleeping sickness epidemic of the early 20th century. Listeners learn about the mysterious cases observed by doctors von Economo and Cruchet during World War I. The bizarre symptoms include profound lethargy, catatonia, and even hiccup epidemics. Explore how troop movements may have spread the illness globally and the chilling case of a young patient named Ruth. Despite numerous theories, the cause of encephalitis lethargica remains unsolved, leaving many questions about its sudden disappearance.

Delve into the mysterious case of Martha “Sunny” von Bulow, a wealthy socialite who fell into a coma under suspicious circumstances. The podcast explores her tumultuous marriage to Klaus, his affair, and the eerie events surrounding her medical incidents. Discover the dramatic private investigation that unearthed a black bag filled with sedatives and a syringe, leading to Klaus's attempted murder trial. The twists and turns of the legal battles, along with the unresolved family drama, keep listeners on the edge of their seats.

Delve into the bizarre case of Brian Wells, the pizza delivery driver who walked into a bank with a bomb collar demanding cash. Discover the chilling sequence of events leading to his tragic death just minutes after his arrest. The episode explores the convoluted conspiracy behind the robbery, uncovering hidden clues and strange characters like Marjorie Deal Armstrong, accused of orchestrating it all. With forensic twists and shocking lies, this story reveals a chilling web of deceit and desperation.

In a gripping tale, the murder of Terry King uncovers dark truths following his death in a house fire. Investigators learn that King was brutally beaten, while his sons Derek and Alex go missing. Suspicion falls on Ricky Chavis, a convicted molester with a troubling influence over the boys. Troubling confessions and diary entries reveal a web of manipulation and abuse. As legal battles unfold, the heart-wrenching saga reflects on systemic failings and the tragic aftermath for the boys caught in this chilling case.

A shocking murder unfolds as firefighters discover Terry King's body in his burned house, initially thought to be a fire casualty. As investigators dig deeper, they uncover severe head trauma and the chilling disappearance of his two sons, Derek and Alex. Convoluted family dynamics and a troubling relationship with Ricky emerge, casting doubts on the boys' innocence. The case intertwines heartbreak with sinister implications, raising questions about abuse and possible motives. Tension builds as the hosts leave listeners eager for the next part of this gripping story.

Discover the harrowing tale of the 1976 Chowchilla school bus kidnapping, where bus driver Ed Ray became a hero. Learn how he and 26 children survived over 24 hours buried alive in a van. The intense escape effort, driven by panic and determination, is a gripping highlight. Hear about the emotional reunions, the investigation of the kidnappers, and the lasting effects on survivors. Ed's bravery was honored in the community, showcasing resilience in the face of trauma. This story is as much about survival as it is about the strength of the human spirit.

Dive into the dark side of holiday traditions as the hosts unwrap spooky figures like Krampus, who delivers birch switches to naughty kids. Discover the Icelandic Yule Cat that preys on the ill-dressed and the mischievous antics of the 13 Yule Lads. Learn about Frau Perchta's gruesome penalties for laziness and Hans Trapp's scarecrow legend. The conversation reveals how these frightful customs starkly contrast with the cheerful American Christmas, showcasing a holiday teeming with fear-based discipline and chilling folklore.