Missouri Mayhem: Mystery & Murder with Mindy & Megan!

Missouri Mayhem: Mystery & Murder with Mindy & Megan!

by Megan Owens & Mindy Johnson

Documentary True Crime

Season 1

The Tragic Murder of 9 Year Old Elizabeth Olten - St. Martins, MO 2009

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

The Package Killer: Gary Muelhberg 1990-1993 - St, Louis, MO

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.

Ben Renick - The Missouri Snake Breeder Murder - New Florence, MO

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

Harry S. Truman - His Life, Home, Museum, & "Ghost" - Independence, MO

In this episode of "Missouri Mayhem, Mystery and Murder," hosts Mindy and Megan explore the life and legacy of Harry Truman, the 33rd President of the United States. They delve into his significant contributions, such as the Truman Doctrine, the Marshall Plan, and his role in World War II. The episode also covers personal anecdotes about Truman's life, including his marriage to Bess, their home in Independence, Missouri, and the intriguing stories surrounding his ghostly presence both at his home and the White House. The hosts share their experiences visiting Truman's home and museum, highlighting the historical significance and personal stories that make Truman's legacy enduring. They conclude with a reflection on Truman's impact and the importance of preserving history. RESOURCES AND REFERENCES 🎩 Harry S. Truman Home (Harry S. Truman National Historic Site) Managed by: U.S. National Park Service (NPS) 📚 Official Resources: NPS Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/hstr/index.htm Visitor Information & Tours:Address: 219 N. Delaware Street, Independence, MO Phone: (816) 254‑2720 Hours, ticket info, and tour details available on the NPS site. NPS Virtual Tour of the Truman Home: https://www.nps.gov/virtualtrumanhome NPS Park Brochure (PDF): Available on the site under “Plan Your Visit.” 🏛️ Supplemental Resources: Truman Home Historical Context (Library of Congress): https://www.loc.gov/item/trumanhome/ Truman Library Institute (partners with NPS): https://www.trumanlibraryinstitute.org/ Local Tourism Info (Visit KC): https://www.visitkc.com/harry-truman-sites 📖 Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum Managed by: National Archives & Records Administration (NARA) 📚 Official Resources: Presidential Library Website (NARA): https://www.trumanlibrary.gov/ Visitor Information:Address: 500 W. U.S. Highway 24, Independence, MO Phone: (816) 268‑8200 Hours, tours, and ticket info on the official site. Online Exhibits & Digital Collections: https://www.trumanlibrary.gov/library Education Resources: https://www.trumanlibrary.gov/education

The Kansas City Strangler - Lorenzo Gilyard, Jr.

This Missouri Mayhem episode delves into the chilling story of Lorenzo Jerome Gilyard Jr., also known as the Kansas City Strangler. It explores his double life, earlier criminal activities, and the eventual breakthrough in the case through DNA evidence. This evidence conclusively linked Gilyard to the murders of six women, leading to his arrest on April 16, 2004, and subsequent charges of 12 counts of first-degree murder. The episode concludes with Gilyard's sentencing to life in prison without parole on March 17, 2007. Resources & References: Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org Serial Killer Calendar https://www.serialkillercalendar.com Radford University https://maamodt.asp.radford.edu Samuel J. Heyman Services to America Medals https://servicetoamericamedals.org Cdn6.f-cdn.com https://cdn6.f-cdn.com Crime Library https://www.crimelibrary.org NBC News https://www.nbcnews.com Bureau of Justice Assistance https://bja.ojp.gov Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com Peacock https://www.peacocktv.com Prezi https://prezi.com 9News https://www.9news.com KOMU 8 https://www.komu.com Wfmynews2.com https://www.wfmynews2.com Lawrence Journal-World https://www2.ljworld.com IMBDb https://m.imbd.com Serial Killer Database Wiki https://skdb.fandom.com

The Steamboats of Missouri - Steamboat Arabia & Steamboat Malta

In this episode of Missouri Mayhem, Mystery and Murder, hosts Mindy and Megan explore the intriguing history of two steamboats, the Arabia and the Malta, both of which met their fate on the Missouri River. The discussion delves into the cultural and historical significance of these vessels, the dangers of river travel in the 1800s, and the fascinating discoveries made during the excavation of the Arabia. The episode also touches on the ongoing mystery of the Malta and its impact on river navigation and safety. REFERENCE LIST Primary & Historical Sources “The Steamboat Arabia: A Time Capsule of Frontier Life.” Arabia Steamboat Museum publications. Gilman, D.C. The Steamboat Arabia and Its Artifacts. Kansas City Historical Society, 1992. Chittenden, H.M. History of Early Steamboat Navigation on the Missouri River. A.C. McClurg & Co., 1903. Army Corps of Engineers. Snag Removal Reports on the Missouri River, 1830–1870. U.S. Government Archives. Parkville Luminary Newspaper, 1856 contemporary accounts of the Arabia sinking. Missouri Republican (St. Louis). September 1856 reporting on the Arabia disaster. Merchant journals from the Missouri River Fur Trade, 1839–1848, including accounts referencing the Malta sinking. Peterson, Charles. “Graveyard of the Missouri River Steamboats.” Missouri Historical Review, 1978. Secondary Sources Holleman, Jason. Lost Steamboats of the Missouri. Prairie River Press, 2007. Kane, M.J. Steamboats West: The Untold Story of America’s River Empires. Riverbend Books, 2011. National Park Service. “Steamboat Wrecks on the Missouri River.” Kansas City Public Library – Steamboat Arabia digital archives.

The Pony Express - St. Joseph, Missouri to Sacramento, California

This Missouri Mayhem episode provides an overview of the Pony Express, a mail service that operated from April 1860 to October 1861, using relays of young riders on horses to deliver mail across approximately 2000 miles from St. Joseph, Missouri, to Sacramento, California. The service was prompted by California's rapidly growing population and aimed to deliver mail in about 10 days. Despite its speed and innovation, the Pony Express was not a financial success and went bankrupt after 18 months, largely due to the advent of the transcontinental telegraph. Resources & References: National Geographic Society https://education.nationalgeographic.org National Pony Express Association https://nationalponyexpress.org LibGuides https://slcl.libguides.com Buffalo Bill Center of the West https://centerofthewest.org PBS Learning Media https://www.pbslearningmedia.org National Park Service https://www.nps.gov National Postal Museum https://postalmuseum.si.edu Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org Rainbow Resource Center https://www.rainbowresource.com The Philatelic Foundation

Nicholas & Justin Diemel: The Cattle Fraud & Murder Case, Braymer, Missouri

This episode of "Missouri Mayhem, Mystery and Murder" delves into the tragic story of Nicholas and Justin Diemel, two brothers from Wisconsin who were victims of a deceitful cattle fraud scheme. The brothers, known for their hard work and integrity, were lured into a business deal with Garland Joseph Nelson, a man with a history of cattle fraud. The episode uncovers the brothers' journey to Missouri to resolve a business dispute, only to face a grim fate at the hands of Nelson. The narrative explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the devastating impact of unchecked fraud, culminating in a heartfelt reflection on the lives lost and the communities forever changed. *Follow us at: Patreon - https://patreon.com/MissouriMayhemMysteryMurder?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Instagram - www.instagram.com/missourimayhem_mysterymurder/ Facebook - Missouri Mayhem: Mystery & Murder with Mindy & Megan Youtube - Missouri Mayhem: Mystery & Murder with Mindy & Megan Resources: Federal & State Legal Documents U.S. Department of Justice – Western District of Missouri “Braymer Man Sentenced to 32 Years for Cattle Fraud Scheme That Led to Murders.” (Press Release, April 24, 2023) U.S. Department of Justice – Western District of Missouri “Cattle Fraud Scheme Resulted in Two Murders.” (Press Release, May 18, 2021) U.S. Federal Court Records – Western District of Missouri Case filings related to mail fraud, firearm possession, and supervised release violations. Missouri State Court Records State murder charges, plea agreements, sentencing transcripts, and pre-sentence investigation reports. Major News Outlets CBS News “32 more years in prison for Missouri man who killed brothers.” April 25, 2023. Kansas City Star Multiple investigative articles on Nelson, farm operations, the brothers’ disappearance, and legal proceedings (2019–2023 coverage). Associated Press “Missouri man pleads guilty to killing Wisconsin brothers.” April 21, 2022. “Missouri rancher sentenced in disappearance of two brothers.” Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (Wisconsin) In-depth coverage on Nicholas and Justin Diemel, their business, their disappearance, and courtroom developments.

The Ryan Ferguson Case - His Conviction & Exoneration, Columbia, Missouri

This episode titled "The Ryan Ferguson Case" from the podcast "Missouri Mayhem, Mystery and Murder" delves into the wrongful conviction of Ryan Ferguson for the 2001 murder of sports editor Ken Heitholt in Columbia, Missouri. The hosts, Mindy and Megan, discuss the events leading to Ferguson's conviction, including the confession of Chuck Erickson, who implicated Ferguson. Despite a lack of physical evidence linking Ferguson to the crime, he was convicted based on Erickson's testimony. The episode also covers the efforts of defense attorney Kathleen Zellner, who helped overturn Ferguson's conviction in 2013, leading to his release after nearly a decade in prison. The hosts highlight the injustices in the case and Ferguson's subsequent advocacy for the wrongfully convicted. *Follow us at: Patreon - https://patreon.com/MissouriMayhemMysteryMurder?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Instagram - www.instagram.com/missourimayhem_mysterymurder/ Facebook - Missouri Mayhem: Mystery & Murder with Mindy & Megan Youtube - Missouri Mayhem: Mystery & Murder with Mindy & Megan RESOURCES;  Moriarty, Erin (November 7, 2013). "Ryan Ferguson Update: For 10 years, "48 Hours" has reported on the problem surrounding Ferguson's now-vacated conviction". CBS News.  David, Brennan (November 29, 2012). "'Dateline' to air second Ferguson episode". Columbia Daily Tribune.  Zellner, Kathleen (March 11, 2014). "Ryan Ferguson". Kathleen T. Zellner & Associates.  Smith, Jessica (April 18, 2012). "Chuck Erickson Takes the Stand in Ferguson Hearing". Komu8.  Erickson, Charles (April 24, 2007). "Charles Erickson Interrogation Video". YouTube.  "ABC News to air Ryan Ferguson story". ABC News. October 10, 2013.  Zellner, Kathleen (November 12, 2013). "10 Turning Points Ryan Ferguson's Attorney Says Led to His Release". Inside Dateline NBC.  "Ryan Ferguson Files $100 Million Lawsuit against Judge Kevin Crane, former CoMo Police Chief Randy Boehm, and others". The Columbia Heart Beat. March 10, 2014.  Piper, Brandie (March 11, 2014). "Ryan Ferguson's attorney files $100M civil suit". KSDK.

Ray and Faye Copeland - The Missouri Serial Killer Grandparents - Mooresville, Missouri

This episode delves into the chilling true crime story of Ray and Faye Copeland, Missouri's oldest couple ever sentenced to death. Set in 1989, the narrative unfolds on a quiet farm in Mooresville, Missouri, where the discovery of human remains leads to the unraveling of a complex fraudulent scheme. Ray and Faye exploited drifters and transients, using them in a cattle-buying scam that escalated into serial murder. The episode explores their backgrounds, the execution-style killings, and the eventual capture and trial of the couple, highlighting the vulnerability of transient populations and the deceptive appearances of the elderly couple. The story concludes with reflections on the importance of evidence and the courage of a drifter who exposed the truth, ultimately leading to the Copelands' downfall. **Follow us at: Patreon - https://patreon.com/MissouriMayhemMysteryMurder?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Instagram - www.instagram.com/missourimayhem_mysterymurder/ Facebook - Missouri Mayhem: Mystery & Murder with Mindy & Megan Youtube - Missouri Mayhem: Mystery & Murder with Mindy & Megan Sources & References Lohr, David. The True Story of Ray and Faye Copeland. Crime Library. crimelibrary.org+1 “Elderly farmer sentenced to death”. UPI Archives. May 23, 1991. UPI Montaldo, Charles. “Serial Killer Couple Ray and Faye Copeland.” ThoughtCo. thoughtco.com “State v. Copeland”. Supreme Court of Missouri decisions. Justia Law Washington Examiner. “Crime History – 82‑year‑old serial killer dies.” Dec 28, 2009. Washington Examiner

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