This Missouri Mayhem episode delves into one of the most disturbing and perplexing crimes in recent Missouri history, focusing on the murder of Elizabeth Olten in October of 2009. The discussion highlights the intersection of violence and mental health, with Alyssa Bustamante ultimately pleading guilty to second-degree murder. The episode emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health crises and provides resources such as the 988 crisis lifeline and BetterHelp.com for those in need. Listeners are encouraged to share the episode to raise awareness about the need for youth services and mental health awareness.

Resources & Further Reading

About the Case & Background

• Wikipedia — Murder of Elizabeth Olten (full timeline, psychological evaluations, family history)
• CBS News — Suspect evaluated for severe depression and suicide risk

Mental Health & Youth Violence

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) — mental health education
• American Psychological Association — adolescent development and violence research
• Missouri 988 - missouri988.org
• Better Help - betterhelp.com.

Support for Impacted Families

• National Center for Victims of Crime
• Missouri Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence

On this episode of Missouri Mayhem, Mindy and Megan delve into the chilling story of Gary Randall Muehlberg, known as The Package Killer. The episode explores Muehlberg's life, his criminal history, and the series of murders he committed in the early 1990s. The hosts discuss the impact of his actions on the victims' families and the eventual breakthrough in the case due to DNA evidence.

Keywords

Gary Randall Muehlberg, package killer, serial killer, DNA evidence, Missouri Mayhem

Reference & Summary Articles

1. Wikipedia – Gary Muehlberg (biographical & case overview) Provides a structured summary of his crimes, convictions, victims, and recent linked murders via DNA.

2. List of Serial Killers in the United States Includes Muehlberg in a national context, useful for comparative research.

News Reports (Investigative & Updates)

3. St. Louis Public Radio — How Gary Muehlberg Was Revealed as the ‘Package Killer’ Explains how cold cases were cracked decades later by DNA evidence and police work.

4. KSDK News — Serial Killer Charged With 1990s Murder Series Local reporting on the identification and charges tied to the murders of four women.

5. Spectrum News (MO) — Alleged Serial Killer Charged After 30+ Years Detailed local coverage of the cases reopening, DNA linkage, and ongoing investigation.

6. CBS / AP News (Archived) — Missouri Inmate Charged With “Package Killer” Murders National news coverage of the 2022 charges, DNA linkage, and cold case work.

This episode of "Missouri Mayhem" delves into the mysterious and tragic story of Ben Renick, a renowned snake breeder, who was found dead in his facility in 2017. The narrative unfolds with the investigation into his murder, initially suspected to be a snake attack, but later revealed to be a homicide involving his wife, Lynlee Renick. The episode explores the complexities of their relationship, financial troubles, and Lynlee's alleged involvement in the murder plot, alongside her ex-boyfriend and a friend. The trial, filled with dramatic testimonies and allegations of abuse, ultimately leads to Lynlee's conviction, highlighting the intricate dynamics of the judicial process and the role of juries in such cases.

REFERENCES/RESOURCES

🔹 News Articles & National Coverage

• CBS News – Feature on the Ben Renick Murder Detailed reporting on the bizarre scene at Renick’s snake facility and the homicide investigation, initially featured on 48 Hours. CBS News

• People.com – Inside the Reptile Breeder’s Death and Investigation Comprehensive summary of Ben Renick’s murder, suspect developments, and trials of Lynlee Renick and Michael Humphrey. People.com

• ABC17 News (Associated Press) – Missouri Woman Sentenced in Death of Snake Breeder Husband AP report on Lynlee Renick’s sentencing in 2022 for her husband’s murder and related details from court. ABC17NEWS

• ABC17 News – Two People Charged in 2017 Shooting of Mid-Missouri Snake Breeder Local news coverage of the arrests of Lynlee Renick and Michael Humphrey in connection with Ben Renick’s murder. ABC17NEWS

• Newsweek – Lynlee Renick Convicted of Killing Snake-Breeder Husband Report on Lynlee’s conviction and prosecutors’ narrative about motive including life insurance and financial issues. Newsweek