The Spoon River Gothic Podcast

Radio Vérité Presents: The Spoon River Gothic Podcast - True Crime Narratives. Think, feel, understand the sideways world around you. We go where the others don’t. We dive deeper! Seasonal | Long Form | Weekly Written and hosted by Cory Zimmerman, our flagship series, THE SPOON RIVER GOTHIC PODCAST, is a growing collection of true crime narratives revealing tales of romance, greed, obsession, murder, and terror. We seek only those stories that cry out for justice--those untold, buried, and forsaken tales of madness, and those silenced voices deserving to be heard. Along our quest, sensationalism is not an end nor a means, rather, we embrace an unrelinquishing mission to humanize crimes which, all too often, remain untangibly abstract. We seek those critical elements that may allow us as individuals to relate and, thus, as a whole, better comprehend the tragedy that is this sideways world; and to better appreciate the darkness, upon which, light may shine. Executive Producer Cory Zimmerman. Written, Edited & Narrated by Cory Zimmerman. Research by Rachel Laubis, Moira King & Allison Hester. Blog Written by Samantha Thomas. Subscribe to THE SRG AGENCY @

Radio Vérité Presents: The Spoon River Gothic Podcast - True Crime Narratives. Think, feel, understand. We go where the others don’t. We dive deeper! Seasonal | Long Form | Weekly Written and hosted by Cory Zimmerman, our flagship series, THE SPOON RIVER GOTHIC PODCAST, is a growing collection of true crime narratives revealing tales of romance, greed, obsession, murder, and terror. We seek only stories of those who cry out for justice, those untold, buried, and forsaken. Stories sincerely deserving to be told by voices that, for too long, have gone unheard. Along our quest, sensationalism is not an end nor a means, but instead, we embrace an unrelinquishing mission to humanization, crimes which, all too often, remain untangibly abstract. We seek those critical elements that may allow us as individuals to relate and, thus, as a whole, better comprehend the tragedy and appreciate that which is darkness, that light may shine. Executive Producer Cory Zimme

Radio Vérité Presents: The Spoon River Gothic Podcast - True Crime Narratives. Think, feel, understand. We go where the others don’t. We dive deeper! Seasonal | Long Form | Weekly Written and hosted by Cory Zimmerman, our flagship series, THE SPOON RIVER GOTHIC PODCAST, is a growing collection of true crime narratives revealing tales of romance, greed, obsession, murder, and terror. We seek only stories of those who cry out for justice, those untold, buried, and forsaken. Stories sincerely deserving to be told by voices that, for too long, have gone unheard. Along our quest, sensationalism is not an end nor a means, but instead, we embrace an unrelinquishing mission to humanization, crimes which, all too often, remain untangibly abstract. We seek those critical elements that may allow us as individuals to relate and, thus, as a whole, better comprehend the tragedy and appreciate that which is darkness, that light may shine. Executive Producer Cory Zimmerman. Written, Edited & Narrated by Cory Zimmerman.

In this episode, we journey into the enigmatic heart of 1985 Florida, a state pulsating with life and exponential population growth. New residents flock to its shores daily, drawn by promises of economic prosperity and boundless opportunity. Yet beneath the surface lies a tapestry of environmental concerns and human struggles, echoing the age-old question of progress at what cost? We confront Florida's intriguing "frontier mentality," a throwback to the untamed spirit of the Wild West. Here, notions of freedom and exploration coexist with shadows of uncertainty, shaping the state's identity in inspiring and disquieting ways. Our discussion then turns to the profound interplay between climate and violence, as revealed by the CLASH model. In the sweltering heat of Florida's sun-soaked days, tempers flare, and impulses ignite, painting a complex portrait of human behavior amidst a backdrop of endless blue skies and swaying palms. As we sift through crime statistics, we uncover a sobering reality: Florida's highways, once symbols of freedom and mobility, now bear witness to a darker truth. Road rage incidents and traffic-related fatalities serve as haunting reminders of the fragility of life in a state where speed and adrenaline collide. But amidst the chaos, a singular narrative emerges—a real-life tale of law enforcement and intrigue. We follow the footsteps of Willie Earl Glover, a figure caught in the crosshairs of a homicide investigation of gas station clerk Merle “Chet” Reeder. Through Glover’s eyes, we glimpse the blurred lines between truth and deception, innocence and guilt. Through his words, we catch fleeting glimpses of a world tinged with uncertainty and doubt—a world where the past casts a long shadow over the present, and justice hangs in the balance. Written, Edited & Narrated by Cory Zimmerman.

Eric Stull, the nephew of Merle “Chet” Reeder, offers a poignant narrative surrounding the life of his mysterious uncle, whose life was tragically cut short during the 1985 multi-state killing spree masterminded by Daniel Rameta. He offers profound insights as he intimately recounts “Chet” beginnings in Maryland, his diverse ventures, including a successful stint in the nightclub industry in NYC, to owning businesses, to ultimately settling in Florida, where he gave up his possessions and decided to live a simple life devoted to God. Eric paints a picture of a dynamic individual who struggled with strained familial bonds concerning his homosexuality during a time of pervasive intolerance. Additionally, the looming threat of Huntington's Disease, prevalent within the family, casts a somber shadow over their lives. Most importantly, though, Eric recalls his uncle being very kind, charismatic, and giving; he is confident his uncle used to spoil his family with gifts or lend a hand when things got tight financially. As Eric reflects on the aftermath of Chet's tragic demise, he shares poignant observations about the stark contrast in his uncle's material possessions, a stark departure from his previously perceived affluence. Through Eric's poignant recollections, we’re able to gain a deeper understanding of Chet's multifaceted identity and the profound impact of his loss, shedding light on the humanity behind the headlines and honoring the memory of not just Chet but all the victims of Daniel Rameta's heinous acts. Written, Edited & Narrated by Cory Zimmerman.

A February 8th, 1985, armed robbery at an Ocala gas station that leaves attendant Merle “Chet” Reeder brutally murdered is meticulously dissected with the testimonies of witnesses and law enforcement officers, who piece together the harrowing sequence of events that unfolded in those early morning hours. From the initial discovery of the crime scene by unsuspecting bystanders to the meticulous investigative efforts that followed, every revelation uncovers new layers of intrigue and suspense. However, many unanswered questions remain amidst the investigation, leaving the small community on edge. What motivated the assailants to commit such a heinous act? Had desperation driven them, or was a deeper, more sinister motive lurking beneath the surface? And who were the individuals behind the blue Chevy van spotted at the scene—mere accomplices or key players in a larger conspiracy? As we unravel the threads of this perplexing mystery, we’re encouraged to ponder the complexities of human nature and the blurred lines between justice and retribution, with questions such as, “What drives someone to cross the threshold of morality and commit an act of unspeakable violence? And what role does societal context play in shaping our decisions in moments of desperation? Written, Edited & Narrated by Cory Zimmerman.

Beginning with a poignant biblical quote, we explore the intricacies of the courtroom trial against the backdrop of moral dilemmas, community challenges, and themes of justice, personal belief, and societal norms. As the courtroom drama unfolds, we are invited to ponder thought-provoking questions, such as, 'How do our deeply held personal beliefs influence our perception of justice? Are we truly impartial, or are we merely projecting our own values onto the situation?’ Can we remain impartial in the face of deeply ingrained biases? The discussion extends to the application of the death penalty, challenging potential jurors to confront their views on punishment and redemption; against the backdrop of Ocala, Florida, known affectionately as 'the land of misfit toys,' we delve into the emotional turmoil of a community grappling with change. From the mundane to the tragic, every detail shapes the narrative, offering poignant insights into human nature and societal dynamics. Through witness testimonies and firsthand accounts, we piece together the events leading up to a fateful discovery at the Tenneco Station just off I-74. As the puzzle unfolds, we’re introduced to a world of intrigue and suspense, where every detail holds the power to unravel the mysteries of this captivating case and those blurred lines between truth and perception. Written, Edited & Narrated by Cory Zimmerman.

In today’s gripping episode, we delve deep into the heart of the chaos that unfolded on February 13, 1985, as we listen to the brave officers’ firsthand accounts that granted an intimate glimpse into that climactic showdown with the outlaws, Daniele Rameta, Lisa Dunn, Mark Walters, and James Hunter, that marked the culmination of the highway crime spree that had gripped Thomas County. With vivid detail and poignant insight, these officers recount the harrowing shootout that ensued on a farmstead north of Colby, highlighting the intense exchange of gunfire that left teenager Mark Walter dead and the three others, though wounded, in custody. As we listen to their recollections, we're compelled to confront the sheer terror that must have engulfed law enforcement and community members alike on that fateful day. Join us as we unravel the layers of this gripping narrative, shedding light on the bravery and resilience of those who stood against the tide of violence and reflecting on the profound impact such events had left on the fabric of a quiet society. Executive Producer Cory Zimmerman. Written, Edited & Narrated by Cory Zimmerman. Research by Rachel Laubis, Moira King & Allison Hester. Blog Written by Samantha Thomas. Patreon @ www.patreon.com/SpoonRiverGothicPodcast Contact SRG @ cz@studios.works Visit SRG @ www.spoonrivergothic.com Instagram: @srg.podcast Facebook: /Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast YouTube: @Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast

Radio Vérité Presents: The Spoon River Gothic Podcast - A Literary True Crime Podcast. Think, feel, understand. We go where the others don’t. We dive deeper! Seasonal | Long Form | Weekly Executive Producer Cory Zimmerman. Written, Edited & Narrated by Cory Zimmerman. Research by Rachel Laubis, Moira King & Allison Hester. Blog Written by Samantha Thomas. Subscribe to THE SRG AGENCY @ https://www.patreon.com/SpoonRiverGothicPodcast & Access The SPOON RIVER GOTHIC CASE FILE for Bonus Weekly Episodes & Investigative Materials (Audio Interviews, Trial Footage, Police Files, Court Documents, Photos, Diagrams, etc.) to Accompany each Season Two Episode. Patreon @ www.patreon.com/SpoonRiverGothicPodcast Contact SRG @ cz@studios.works Visit SRG @ www.spoonrivergothic.com Instagram: @srg.podcast Facebook: /Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast YouTube: @Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast

Radio Vérité Presents: The Spoon River Gothic Podcast - A Literary True Crime Podcast. Think, feel, understand. We go where the others don’t. We dive deeper! Seasonal | Long Form | Weekly Executive Producer Cory Zimmerman. Written, Edited & Narrated by Cory Zimmerman. Research by Rachel Laubis, Moira King & Allison Hester. Blog Written by Samantha Thomas. Subscribe to THE SRG AGENCY @ https://www.patreon.com/SpoonRiverGothicPodcast & Access The SPOON RIVER GOTHIC CASE FILE for Bonus Weekly Episodes & Investigative Materials (Audio Interviews, Trial Footage, Police Files, Court Documents, Photos, Diagrams, etc.) to Accompany each Season Two Episode. Patreon @ www.patreon.com/SpoonRiverGothicPodcast Contact SRG @ cz@studios.works Visit SRG @ www.spoonrivergothic.com Instagram: @srg.podcast Facebook: /Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast YouTube: @Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast

In the wake of a harrowing crime spree that left rural Kansas reeling in 1985, a somber analogy emerged from the lips of a local gas station owner near the junction of Kansas 25 and I-70: "You just don’t know what’s coming down the sewer pipe next." February 13, 1985, marked the culmination of the multi-week, multi-state ordeal, as Highway I-70, the Mainstreet of Kansas, often referred to as the “Sewer Pipe of America,” became the grim stage for the final act. Today, our episode delves into the aftermath of that fateful Wednesday evening in February. We're introduced to key figures of the crime, notably 18-year-old Lisa Dunn, whose name will loom large throughout this series, and her boyfriend, 28-year-old Daniel Remeta. In a post-shootout interview conducted just days later, Lisa's demeanor is marked by palpable nervousness—not the nervousness of guilt, but an enduring anxiety that “seems” to have been her constant companion for some time--or precisely what she wants us to believe? As investigators probe for answers, her responses offer little insight, veering more toward cluelessness than calculation. And as the story unfolds, Lisa's role becomes a focal point of debate—what she knew, what she was capable of, and where her true allegiance lay. Much like in our first season, we invite you, our listeners, to weigh the evidence and draw your own conclusions. Executive Producer Cory Zimmerman. Written, Edited & Narrated by Cory Zimmerman. Research by Rachel Laubis, Moira King & Allison Hester. Blog Written by Samantha Thomas. Contact SRG @ cz@studios.works Visit SRG @ www.spoonrivergothic.com Instagram: @srg.podcast Facebook: /Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast YouTube: @Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast

Radio Vérté Presents SPOON RIVER GOTHIC - Season Two: Death Rides the Highway - A Thrill Ride of Murder & Terror! This season, we will unravel the captivating story of four vastly different individuals and how they all came together to embark on a cross-country crime spree marked by violence and tragedy. In our inaugural episode, we explore the vast expanse of the American landscape, where ribbons of asphalt traverse the American heartland, as we immerse ourselves in the story of the United States Interstate Highway System. Born out of the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1956, this network of interconnected veins was envisioned to propel the nation into a new era of economic growth and national defense. But as the first stretches of asphalt were laid in the late 1950s, the highways became more than just conduits of transportation; they became the lifeblood of a changing America. Over 46,000 miles of sleek, blue, and red-shielded arteries cut through the heartland, connecting cities and towns, bringing promises of progress and prosperity. Yet, as we delve into the annals of this colossal engineering marvel, a darker narrative emerges. Whispers of unintended consequences murmur through the small towns that line the highways. The same accessibility that promised interconnectedness and convenience has also opened the door to a new breed of murder & terror, unleashing a tidal wave of blood to spill upon the Heartland. Executive Producer Cory Zimmerman. Written, Edited & Narrated by Cory Zimmerman. Research by Rachel Laubis, Moira King & Allison Hester. Writer, Samantha Thomas. Contact SRG @ cz@studios.works Visit SRG @ www.spoonrivergothic.com Instagram: @srg.podcast Facebook: /Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast YouTube: @Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast

Radio Vérité Presents the Long-form, True Crime Podcast SPOON RIVER GOTHIC Season One: "NARRATIVE of a DOUBLE HOMICIDE" A True Crime Saga Revealing a Mystery of Romance, Obsession & Terror. The Borders of the Puzzle - Arson & Murder! A HAUNTING TALE - The perplexing double homicide of mother and child unfolding against a vivid backdrop of a quaint, midwestern town—the story kicks off with the chilling discovery of Donna and Justine Tompkins' lifeless bodies in their fire-ravaged home on a frigid morning in January 1993. As investigators feverishly search for clues, the narrative swiftly evolves into a complex tapestry of characters with conflicting testimonies. With each twist and turn, the audience is drawn deeper into the shadowy corners of the victims' lives and a labyrinth of potential suspects. Through riveting storytelling, meticulous evidence analysis, and insightful expert perspectives, listeners are immersed in the investigation. Firsthand interviews are expertly woven together to vibrantly portray the victims' personas, lurking motives, and law enforcement's unyielding quest for justice. As the series unfolds, we are presented with a spectrum of viewpoints - from the relentless efforts of law enforcement and forensic experts to the harrowing experiences of friends and family forever marked by this tragedy. Amid these narratives, more prominent themes begin to emerge, which probe the essence of justice, the weight of communal bonds, and the ceaseless pursuit of truth. This true crime saga transcends a mere crime to solve as it morphs into a profound exploration of human behavior under duress, the resilience of people grappling with sorrow, and the extremes one will traverse in their quest for answers and closure. With each unfolding chapter, the sequence of events seamlessly guides us through a labyrinthine path of raw emotion as the intricate layers of the investigation peel away. Along the way, we are tempted, rather beseeched, to confront the shadows that linger beneath the veneer of our own lives. Produced, Written & Edited by Cory Zimmerman. Produced by August Olsen of Lone Bird Media. Research by Jinra Ilustrisimo, Anna Maria Cannon & Chelseah Mesa. Contact SRG at: cz@studios.works. Visit SRG at: www.spoonrivergothic.com. Instagram: @srg.podcast Facebook: /Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast YouTube: @Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast

A heart-wrenching narrative-- Through a poignant exploration of Donna Tompkin’s perspective, we relive the ordinary moments of the day before and the aftermath of the devastating fire that claimed her and her three-year-old daughter, Justine, lives and the intricate details of the people close to the victims and the compelling events leading up to the fateful incident. We are transported to the scene of the tragedy, vividly envisioning the actions and reactions of those close to the case and gaining insight into Donna's mindset in the crucial hours preceding the fire. The aftermath reveals haunting remnants: a 1938 class ring and a Seiko watch resting by the kitchen sink. As investigators meticulously scour the wreckage for secrets and clues, a pivotal moment unfolds in a discovery that may hold the key to unraveling this mystery. Contact SRG at: cz@studios.works. Visit SRG at: www.spoonrivergothic.com. Instagram: @srg.podcast Facebook: /Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast YouTube: @Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast

Radio Vérité Presents the Long-form, True Crime Podcast SPOON RIVER GOTHIC Season One: "NARRATIVE of a DOUBLE HOMICIDE" A True Crime Saga Revealing a Mystery of Romance, Obsession & Terror. The Borders of the Puzzle - Arson & Murder! A HAUNTING TALE - The perplexing double homicide of mother and child unfolding against a vivid backdrop of a quaint, midwestern town—the story kicks off with the chilling discovery of Donna and Justine Tompkins' lifeless bodies in their fire-ravaged home on a frigid morning in January 1993. As investigators feverishly search for clues, the narrative swiftly evolves into a complex tapestry of characters with conflicting testimonies. With each twist and turn, the audience is drawn deeper into the shadowy corners of the victims' lives and a labyrinth of potential suspects. Through riveting storytelling, meticulous evidence analysis, and insightful expert perspectives, listeners are immersed in the investigation. Firsthand interviews are expertly woven together to vibrantly portray the victims' personas, lurking motives, and law enforcement's unyielding quest for justice. As the series unfolds, we are presented with a spectrum of viewpoints - from the relentless efforts of law enforcement and forensic experts to the harrowing experiences of friends and family forever marked by this tragedy. Amid these narratives, more prominent themes begin to emerge, which probe the essence of justice, the weight of communal bonds, and the ceaseless pursuit of truth. This true crime saga transcends a mere crime to solve as it morphs into a profound exploration of human behavior under duress, the resilience of people grappling with sorrow, and the extremes one will traverse in their quest for answers and closure. With each unfolding chapter, the sequence of events seamlessly guides us through a labyrinthine path of raw emotion as the intricate layers of the investigation peel away. Along the way, we are tempted, rather beseeched, to confront the shadows that linger beneath the veneer of our own lives. Produced, Written & Edited by Cory Zimmerman. Produced by August Olsen of Lone Bird Media. Research by Jinra Ilustrisimo, Anna Maria Cannon & Chelseah Mesa. Contact SRG at: cz@studios.works. Visit SRG at: www.spoonrivergothic.com. Instagram: @srg.podcast Facebook: /Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast YouTube: @Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast

Nearing the end of our journey-- We hint at additional potential affairs and emotional motives by exploring alternative theories involving suspects, scrutinizing timelines for inconsistencies, and delving into the complexities of romantic dynamics. Such as with noteworthy figures, like Donnie’s girlfriend at the time of the deaths, Rochelle Hillemeyer, we assess her potential connection to the crime. We also emphasize the added complexities of the case, solidifying the timeline, clarifying relationships, and reexamining motives. The exploration of the crime scene shifts focus to its location near a set of railroad tracks, an industrial area, and nearby rundown apartments. We consider the possibility of opportunistic crimes, questionable characters, and police oversights, including the introduction of serial killer Arlie Ray Davis. The discussion also takes a turn with Clayton App's interview, presenting a theory involving Ron Tompkins, Jon Tompkins’s father, orchestrating a hit on Donna in a potential desperate attempt to save the farm. We explore the intriguing idea of the house itself being a culprit, considering its condition and potential hazards like gas leaks. And financial motives are introduced, suggesting Donna might have discovered irregularities at the bank and potential fraud. The episode attempts to weave together theories involving sideline individuals, family dynamics, and the physical environment, promising a thought-provoking exploration of alternative perspectives and motives, ¾uncovering even more layers to this intriguing mystery surrounding the deaths of Donna and Justine Tompkins. Contact SRG at: cz@studios.works. Visit SRG at: www.spoonrivergothic.com. Instagram: @srg.podcast Facebook: /Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast YouTube: @Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast

Radio Vérité Presents the Long-form, True Crime Podcast SPOON RIVER GOTHIC Season One: "NARRATIVE of a DOUBLE HOMICIDE" A True Crime Saga Revealing a Mystery of Romance, Obsession & Terror. The Borders of the Puzzle - Arson & Murder! A HAUNTING TALE - The perplexing double homicide of mother and child unfolding against a vivid backdrop of a quaint, midwestern town—the story kicks off with the chilling discovery of Donna and Justine Tompkins' lifeless bodies in their fire-ravaged home on a frigid morning in January 1993. As investigators feverishly search for clues, the narrative swiftly evolves into a complex tapestry of characters with conflicting testimonies. With each twist and turn, the audience is drawn deeper into the shadowy corners of the victims' lives and a labyrinth of potential suspects. Through riveting storytelling, meticulous evidence analysis, and insightful expert perspectives, listeners are immersed in the investigation. Firsthand interviews are expertly woven together to vibrantly portray the victims' personas, lurking motives, and law enforcement's unyielding quest for justice. As the series unfolds, we are presented with a spectrum of viewpoints - from the relentless efforts of law enforcement and forensic experts to the harrowing experiences of friends and family forever marked by this tragedy. Amid these narratives, more prominent themes begin to emerge, which probe the essence of justice, the weight of communal bonds, and the ceaseless pursuit of truth. This true crime saga transcends a mere crime to solve as it morphs into a profound exploration of human behavior under duress, the resilience of people grappling with sorrow, and the extremes one will traverse in their quest for answers and closure. With each unfolding chapter, the sequence of events seamlessly guides us through a labyrinthine path of raw emotion as the intricate layers of the investigation peel away. Along the way, we are tempted, rather beseeched, to confront the shadows that linger beneath the veneer of our own lives. Produced, Written & Edited by Cory Zimmerman. Produced by August Olsen of Lone Bird Media. Research by Jinra Ilustrisimo, Anna Maria Cannon & Chelseah Mesa. Contact SRG at: cz@studios.works. Visit SRG at: www.spoonrivergothic.com. Instagram: @srg.podcast Facebook: /Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast YouTube: @Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast

Twists & turns-- We zoom out and plunge into the chilling mystery surrounding the double homicide of Donna and Justine, meticulously revisiting key suspects and challenging established narratives. Listeners are guided on a gripping exploration as we scrutinize the individuals in Donna's life: estranged husband, Jon Tompkins; boss, David Haynes; ex-lover, Terry Haynes; and boyfriend, Rod Franciscovich. Aiming to offer a fresh perspective on the crime scene, evidence, and victimology, listeners are urged to question each twist and turn of this decades-old enigma. We again embark on an investigative journey alongside Detective Dave Ayers and State's Attorney Ed Danner as we unravel the intricate layers of Donna Tompkins' life. Despite her seemingly respectable exterior, Donna's relationships, vices, and secrets add complexity to the unfolding enigma of her and her daughter’s untimely death. We explore the pivotal morning when David Haynes discovers the fire, triggering a chain of events illuminating initial theories surrounding Donna's disappearance and the subsequent discovery of the fire. We critically examine investigative flaws, questioning conclusions, and delving into witness statements, suspect interviews, and forensic evidence discrepancies. We invite you to adopt a detective's perspective, introducing a 30-question survey to compare traits among various suspects as we discuss all the initial suspects, evaluating them based on FBI profiling criteria such as their cooperation with the police, intelligence, relationships, and changes in behavior, as each element is analyzed. Contact SRG at: cz@studios.works. Visit SRG at: www.spoonrivergothic.com. Instagram: @srg.podcast Facebook: /Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast YouTube: @Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast

A candid conversation with Jeremy Bull-- Jeremy, the son of Donald Bull, despite not having a close relationship with him, provides us with a unique and very personal insight into the story that gripped the small town of his youth and left lasting implications upon his adult life. Though always in touch with Donnie's side of the family, cousins, aunts, and the like throughout his childhood, listening to this podcast has become a significant part of his journey of healing, as it has offered him new and profound perspectives on a case that has shadowed his family for years. As a 13-year-old, Jeremy found himself amid a challenging situation as the case involving his father began to unfold in the tight-knit community of Canton. The small-town dynamics added complexity to an already tricky scenario, shaping Jeremy's early understanding of the world and the intricacies of justice. In our conversation, Jeremy reflects on the hurdles that the state placed in the path of Donnie's defense team, shedding light on the roadblocks that hindered a fair legal process. He delves into areas where improvements in the defense strategy could have made a significant difference as he scrutinizes some of the forensic evidence presented during the trial. What makes Jeremy's perspective particularly intriguing is his professional background as not only a nurse but also a licensed mortician. Drawing from firsthand experience in dealing with the aftermath of death, Jeremy provides a unique lens through which to examine the forensic intricacies of the case. Throughout our discussion, Jeremy, in a poignant juxtaposition of family dynamics and the American justice system, guides us through the challenges of learning about the brutal truths of his father's case for the first time. This conversation invites us all to join Jeremy on his journey of discovery as he grapples with the revelations, challenged assumptions, and deep contemplations of our legal system's broader implications, leaving us with many lingering questions in its wake. Contact SRG at: cz@studios.works. Visit SRG at: www.spoonrivergothic.com. Instagram: @srg.podcast Twitter: @srg.presentsFacebook: /Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast YouTube: @Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast

Recap-- As we revisit the key details in this chilling case, we are confronted with much information we did not have at the start of our journey. The inconclusive autopsy results are discussed, as the perplexing circumstances surrounding the house fire, the initial ruling of no foul play, and other pieces of crucial evidence that deserve to be dissected with a fine-tooth comb. Delving deeper into this forensic puzzle, we find that signs of possible asphyxiation clash with the absence of typical indicators like bruises or trauma to the throat and mouth. Arson investigators uncover intentional ignition with the discovery of flammable liquids, including kerosene, gasoline, and whiskey, which introduce a sinister element to the narrative. Witness statements become a battleground of contradictions, particularly with Donna's boss, David Haynes, whose accounts raise doubts among investigators. DNA testing on five male suspects, jailhouse informants with questionable credibility, and the enigmatic ring allegedly belonging to Donna all add layers of complexity to an already perplexing tale as additional details are shared that were either not brought up during Donnie’s trial or not emphasized nearly enough. As we navigate the complexities of justice, we explore the uncertainties surrounding the deaths, witness statements, and the reliability of evidence presented during the trial. And we ask, are you as confident as you were at the start of our journey? Was there more to this case than you initially thought? Join us on this thought-provoking odyssey as we question, analyze, and challenge the very foundations of the Donald Bull case. Contact SRG at: cz@studios.works. Visit SRG at: www.spoonrivergothic.com. Instagram: @srg.podcast Facebook: /Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast YouTube: @Spoon.River.Gothic.Podcast