In this gripping episode of For the Missing, host Kimberley Callahan unravels the chilling true story of Joseph James DeAngelo Jr., the man known as the Golden State Killer, the Original Night Stalker, and the East Area Rapist. This episode is essential listening for true crime enthusiasts, mystery lovers, and anyone interested in the evolution of forensic science and criminal justice. We explore how DeAngelo, a former police officer with training in burglary units, used his intimate knowledge of law enforcement tactics to evade capture for over a decade while terrorizing communities across California.

The narrative delves deep into the psychological profile of DeAngelo, tracing his troubled childhood, military service, and education in criminal justice that paradoxically equipped him with the skills to commit his crimes undetected. Listeners will hear about the specific patterns of the Visalia Ransacker, the East Area Rapist, and the Original Night Stalker, and how these separate cases were eventually linked through the EARONS acronym. The episode highlights the pivotal role of forensic genetic genealogy and public DNA databases like GEDmatch, which finally allowed investigators to identify a seventy-two-year-old retired officer hiding in plain sight in Citrus Heights.

We also examine the systemic failures that allowed DeAngelo to patrol the streets where he committed his atrocities, including his internship with the Roseville Police Department and his work in Exeter and Auburn. The story covers the $50,000 FBI reward, Michelle McNamara’s book "Keeping Death Awake," and the eventual guilty plea that spared him the death penalty but resulted in life without parole. This episode serves as a stark reminder of the resilience of survivors and the relentless pursuit of justice by investigators who never gave up on the cold cases.

Join us as we honor the victims and survivors whose stories demand witness. If you find value in this exploration of truth and justice, please support the show via the link in our description. Your empathy helps keep these stories alive and ensures that no one is forgotten. Tune in next time for more journeys into the mysteries that shape our world.

Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_James_DeAngelo

More from For the Missing: https://humanitymedia.org/for-the-missing

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_James_DeAngelo

Topics: golden state killer, joseph deangelo, true crime podcast, east area rapist, original night stalker, visalia ransacker, forensic genetic genealogy, cold case investigation, california true crime, police brutality stories, dna database破案, michelle mcnamara, serial killer psychology, criminal justice system, missing persons

#goldenstatekiller #truecrime #podcast #mystery #justice #coldcase #forensics #survivors #investigation #crimehistory #audio #storytelling

Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/for-the-missing/2026-09-09.txt

In this episode of For the Missing, host Kimberley Callahan explores the enduring mystery of the Lizzie Borden murders in Fall River, Massachusetts. On August 4th, 1892, Andrew Jackson Borden and his wife Abby were brutally murdered with a hatchet in their home. The narrative dissects the tense family dynamics, financial disputes, and social isolation that defined the Borden household, offering a deep dive into one of America’s most famous true crime cases. This story is for listeners fascinated by historical mysteries, unsolved crimes, and the complexities of justice in the late 19th century.

The episode moves beyond the sensational nursery rhyme to examine the evidence—or lack thereof—that led to Lizzie Borden’s acquittal. We explore the primitive forensic science of 1893, the inconsistent statements made by Lizzie, and the circumstantial nature of the case against her. By highlighting the absence of DNA testing or fingerprint analysis, we contextualize why suspicion fell heavily on the daughter who was seen as cold and unemotional during the investigation. The discussion covers the trial's rapid conclusion, the all-male jury's verdict, and the societal pressures that shaped public perception of Lizzie as a villain despite the legal outcome.

We also consider alternative theories, including modern forensic suggestions that another perpetrator may have been responsible. The episode reflects on how Lizzie spent the rest of her life in the shadow of the crime, never speaking publicly about it, while her story became embedded in American folklore through films, plays, and rhymes. This narration invites you to question whether history has judged Lizzie fairly, balancing the facts of the case with the human elements of grief, money, and family strain. It is a poignant look at how truth can remain elusive even when the law declares innocence.

Listen now to uncover the layers of silence surrounding the axe in the coal bin. If you find value in these deep dives into missing persons and unresolved histories, please support the show via the link in our description. Your support helps us continue to bring dignity and depth to these difficult stories.

Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lizzie_Borden

More from For the Missing: https://humanitymedia.org/for-the-missing

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lizzie_Borden

Topics: lizzie borden murder, fall river massachusetts history, true crime podcast, unsolved mysteries, historical crime cases, borden family tragedy, 19th century american history, forensic science history, lizzie borden trial, cold case investigations, american folklore rhymes, missing persons podcast

#lizzieborden #truecrime #mystery #history #podcast #fallriver #unsolved #crimehistory #audiobook #storytelling #investigation #justice

Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/for-the-missing/2026-09-08.txt

This episode of 'For the Missing' recounts the harrowing disappearance of the Beaumont children—Jane, Arnna, and Grant—who vanished on January 26, 1966, while playing at Glenelg Beach in Adelaide, Australia. Hosted by Kimberley Callahan, this true crime narrative explores the final day of their lives, detailing the ordinary routine that shattered into one of the most enduring mysteries in Australian history. The story is essential listening for those interested in cold cases, unsolved disappearances, and the impact of high-profile crimes on families and society.

The narration reconstructs the timeline with meticulous care, beginning with the humid summer afternoon when the three siblings boarded a bus to Somerton Park before heading to the beach. It highlights the initial trust parents placed in their community and the sudden, terrifying realization when the noon and 2:00 PM buses arrived without them. We delve into the frantic search efforts led by father Jim Beaumont and mother Nancy, as they scoured the crowded beaches and local streets. The episode examines the psychological toll on the family and the broader public, capturing the shift from hope to dread as evening fell and the police were finally notified. This deep dive offers concrete insights into the investigative challenges of the era and the lasting legacy of the case.

Beyond the facts, this episode reflects on the human cost of such tragedies, honoring Jane, Arnna, and Grant as vibrant children rather than just statistics. It discusses how the Beaumont disappearance changed national attitudes toward child safety and law enforcement transparency. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the historical context of 1960s Australia, the media's role in shaping public perception, and why this case remains a focal point for missing persons advocates. The storytelling is designed to be respectful yet gripping, providing closure through remembrance while acknowledging the unresolved nature of the mystery.

Listen now to hear the full account of The Last Day at Glenelg and join us in remembering the Beaumont children. If you find value in our work uncovering these stories, please support the show via the link provided below.

Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disappearance_of_the_Beaumont_children · https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/australia-police-convicted-murderer-derek-percy-confessed-killing-beaumont-children-n48106 · https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beaumont_children_disappearance · https://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-01-26/beaumont-children-disappearance-50-years-on/7113894

More from For the Missing: https://humanitymedia.org/for-the-missing

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disappearance_of_the_Beaumont_children

Topics: beaumont children, glenelg beach disappearance, jane arnna grant, australian true crime, unsolved missing persons, adelaide cold case, 1966 mystery, kimberley callahan podcast, for the missing, true crime documentary, missing children australia, cold case investigation

#beaumontchildren #glenelg #truecrime #unsolvedmystery #australianhistory #missingpersons #coldcase #podcastshow #justiceforsarah #adelaide #1966 #truecrimecommunity

Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/for-the-missing/2026-09-07.txt