A Simpler Time True Crime
True Crime & Paranormal
About
I’m Megan, your host, and each week I revisit unsolved cases from decades past, stories that have too often been forgotten or overlooked. Together, we examine the facts, question the myths of the “good old days,” and ask whether a simpler time was ever really a safer one. This podcast honors the people at the heart of each case, focusing not on sensationalism, but on the lives affected and the justice still waiting to be served. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/a-simpler-time-true-crime--6665681/support .
Episodes
- The Camera on Bumblebee Road: The Unsolved Double Homicide of Brandon Rumbaugh and Lisa Gurrieri
In 2003, Brandon Rumbaugh and Lisa Gurrieri were found deceased in Yavapai County. This episode examines the investigation into their unsolved double homicide, including a damaged disposable camera with potentially crucial photographs.
- A Web of Truth and Lies: The Unsolved Disappearance of Barbara Cotton
This episode of A Simpler Time True Crime discusses the 1981 disappearance of Barbara Cotton, a North Dakota teenager. The investigation, revisited by her family and an investigative podcaster, uncovers quiet community talk, a mysterious b…
- Arrest Made in Cindy Wanner Case: An Update with Original Episode
An arrest has been made in the 1991 murder of Cindy Wanner. The episode includes the original investigation details and updates, noting Wanner was abducted and held for two weeks before her death.
- The One Still Missing: The Unsolved Abduction of Bambi Brantley
This episode examines the 1986-1990 disappearances of young women in a small Louisiana community, including the unsolved abduction of Bambi Brantley. It explores potential connections between cases, some of which have been solved while oth…
- Introducing: Secrets Beyond The Sacramento River
This episode of A Simpler Time True Crime introduces "Secrets Beyond the Sacramento River," detailing the events surrounding Jeff Anderson
- Ambushed From The Shadows: The Unsolved Murder of Officer Kevin Brame
The episode covers the unsolved murder of Dayton Police Officer Kevin Brame, who was killed on November 1, 1999. It recounts his final evening with his sons and highlights the ongoing efforts to find justice for him over 25 years later.
- Evil is Everywhere: The Unsolved Abduction and Murder of Molly Bish Part 2
This episode continues the Molly Bish case, focusing on the homicide investigation, numerous suspects, and the case's current status following the discovery of her remains in 2003. It follows up on Part 1, which covered Molly's life and th…
- Watching and Waiting: The Unsolved Abduction and Murder of Molly Bish Part 1
This episode covers the 2000 disappearance and subsequent murder of Molly Bish. Despite a large search, her remains were not found for three years. The episode details the ongoing investigation and Molly's family's advocacy.
- A Crime Lost To Time: The Unsolved Murder of Tess Hilt
The episode discusses the unsolved 1973 homicide of Tess Hilt, a graduate student in Maryville. Despite numerous leads and decades of investigation, her case remains open, with a former classmate actively working to bring attention to her…
- No Soldier Left Behind: The Unsolved Murder of Solomon Robinson
This episode details the unsolved 1998 murder of Solomon Robinson, a young U.S. Army soldier killed in his Bronx neighborhood. Retired NYPD Detective Robert Klein discusses the case, highlighting the many witnesses and the ongoing efforts…
- Cruel and Calculated: The Murder of Oakey "Al" Kite
This episode of A Simpler Time True Crime examines the 2004 murder of Oakey "Al" Kite in Aurora, Colorado. It details the investigation into a prospective tenant and the ongoing efforts to identify the perpetrator through recurring forensi…
- The Most Baffling Case We've Ever Seen: The Unsolved Disappearance of Jason Jolkowski
The episode details the baffling 2001 disappearance of Jason Jolkowski, who vanished en route to work. Despite extensive searches by his family and unanswered questions, the case remains unsolved after twenty-five years.
- I'm The Main Suspect: The Disappearance of Erica Fraysure
Erica Fraysure disappeared in the fall of 1997 after going out with friends. Despite extensive investigation, including interviews and polygraphs, her whereabouts remain unknown decades later. The disappearance significantly impacted her f…
- Campus Rideshare: The Unsolved Murder of Sheila Collins
The episode covers the unsolved 1968 murder of Iowa State University freshman Sheila Collins, who disappeared while seeking a rideshare home. Her body was found two days later, and the case remains unsolved, impacting the community decades…
- The Blizzard of '96: The Murder of Thomas Dorr Sr.
Thomas Dorr Sr., a 6'8″ community member known as the "Gentle Giant," disappeared during the historic Blizzard of '96 while trying to reach his volunteer firehouse. His body was discovered in a local park, and despite suspicion falling on…
- A Mother's Search For Answers: The Abduction of Mitchell Owens
This episode details the 1983 home invasion and abduction of Mitchell Owens, as told by his mother, Ora Owens. Despite 43 years passing with no answers, Ora shares her story publicly for the first time, discussing the events, Mitchell, the…
- A Conversation With Retired NYPD Bronx Homicide Detective Robert Klein
Retired NYPD Detective Robert Klein shares insights into his career, including investigating the 1996 Jasmine Porter cold case. He details the realities of detective work, how cold cases are solved, and advice for families awaiting answers.
- Murder on the 4th of July: The Unsolved Homicide of Jone Knapton
This episode covers the unsolved 2003 homicide of Jone Knapton. She was discovered deceased in the Green River, and despite those close to her believing the perpetrator is known, no arrest has been made in the 23 years since her death.
- A Random Act of Violence: The Unsolved Murder of Jennifer Delgado
This episode covers the unsolved 1988 murder of Jennifer Delgado. An eight-year-old girl and her mother were attacked at a laundromat by a stranger. The mother survived, but the daughter did not. The perpetrator and an alleged getaway driv…
- There's Something About Snowflake: The Disappearance of June Goodman
The disappearance of June Goodman in Snowflake, Arizona, is examined. Goodman, a mail carrier, vanished in 2003, mirroring the unexplained disappearance of a neighbor two years prior. The cases remain unsolved, leaving the small town with…
- The Judge Is More Worried About The Dog Than Me: The Murder of Galina Komar
The murder of Galina Komar is revisited, highlighting the judge's dismissal of her abuse and the subsequent failures in addressing stalking and domestic violence. Her death exposed systemic issues and sparked political debate over the trea…
- The Answers Died With Him: The Unsolved Murder of Cynthia and Heather Johnson
This episode discusses the unsolved 1980s double homicide of Cynthia and Heather Johnson. It highlights how the suspected perpetrator manipulated the criminal justice system, resulting in a lack of meaningful consequences and justice for t…
- The Day It Was To Finalize: The Unsolved Abduction of Deborah McKneely
The episode details the 1991 unsolved abduction of Deborah McKneely, a fifth grader
- Terror After Sundown: The Murder of Carol Jenkins-Davis
This episode covers the 1968 murder of Carol Jenkins-Davis, a Black saleswoman killed in Martinsville, Indiana, a known sundown town. Despite an investigation, only one suspect was apprehended, leaving questions about the case and serving…
- Steps From Home: The Unsolved Abduction of Rachel Louise Cooke
The episode discusses the unsolved abduction of Rachel Louise Cooke, a college student who vanished during her daily run in Texas in January 2002. Neighbors saw her close to home, but she never returned. Despite theories and investigations…
- Payphone Call at 1:58 AM: The Unsolved Disappearance of Dr. Cherryl Lamont Pearson
The disappearance of Dr. Cherryl Lamont Pearson is explored, detailing her last known activities including attending an NBA game and hosting friends. Despite suspicions of foul play and circumstantial evidence, the case remains unsolved, w…
- Special Updated Episode: Judy Lord's Case Is Solved
This updated episode of A Simpler Time True Crime revisits the Judy Lord case. Initially unsolved in 2025, the case was closed on November 24th, 2025, with a suspect identified through advanced DNA evidence. The episode reviews the police-…
- Wedding Dress For Sale: The Unsolved Murder of Patricia "Denise" Palmer
This episode covers the 1981 unsolved murder of Patricia "Denise" Palmer in Tulsa. She was killed by a man who intended to buy her wedding dress, and despite decades passing, DNA advancements offer hope for solving the case.
- "If It Is A Joke It Is A Very Poor One" : The Unsolved Murders of Andrew and Patricia Puskas
In Middlesex, New Jersey, Andrew and Patricia Puskas were killed by a bomb on their porch. Despite an ongoing investigation for over 40 years, the perpetrators and motive remain unknown. The episode revisits the case, examining the timelin…
- Murder at Cloverleaf Mall: The Unsolved Double Homicide of Charlita Singleton and Cheryl Edwards
Two co-workers were murdered in November 1996 while closing a retail store at a mall near Richmond, Virginia. The double homicide, which occurred inside the mall, remains unsolved nearly thirty years later, baffling authorities.
- Prime and Only Suspect Part 2: The Unsolved Disappearance of Kip Hess, Keith Fleming, and Charles Collingwood
This episode explores the post-prison life of John Rodney McRae, focusing on the disappearances of Kip Hess, Keith Fleming, and Charles Collingwood. It examines potential links to McRae and includes an appeal for information regarding thes…
- Prime and Only Suspect Part 1 : The Unsolved Disappearances of Kip Hess, Keith Fleming, and Charles Collingwood
This episode explores the 1998 disappearance of Kip Hess and the emergence of a prime suspect. It examines the suspect's alleged pattern of violence and the failures of protective systems, setting the stage for Part 2 which will cover late…
- The Motorcycle Gang: The Unsolved Murder of the Deal Family
This episode covers the 1978 unsolved triple homicide of the Deal family in rural New Jersey. Initially, police considered connections to a motorcycle gang, a theory reinforced by a similar crime later. However, some argue the killings wer…
- Her Last Customer: The Unsolved Murder of Gale Green
The unsolved murder of lingerie shop owner Gale Green in 1987 is examined. Investigators believe she was attacked by a customer and fought back, injuring her attacker. Despite extensive evidence, the case remains open, with authorities see…
- Someone She Trusted: The Unsolved Murder of Jessie Marie Twilight Song Crooks
This episode discusses the unsolved murder of Jessie Marie Twilight Song Crooks, a Kentucky teenager who vanished in August 2001 after receiving a landline phone call. Her body was discovered weeks later, overshadowed by national events, a…
- The Sales Call: The Unsolved Disappearance of Katie Eggleston
Katie Eggleston disappeared in Portland, Oregon in 1993 after finishing her first day of solo sales calls. Her car was found abandoned, and while some initially thought she left voluntarily, a later disappearance of another woman led polic…
- All Just A Game: The Unsolved Murder of Harriet Riley
The 1975 unsolved murder of Harriet Riley in Sacramento is examined, beginning with her disappearance and the discovery of her body. The episode delves into the police investigation, focusing on two boys who claimed it was an accident, and…
- (Updated Release: Solved 11/2025) Valid Concerns For Her Safety: The Unsolved Murder of Judy Lord
The murder of Judy Lord, a young mother in Concord, New Hampshire, who was found dead in her apartment in 1975, has been solved. A suspect was identified in November 2025 due to advanced DNA evidence, leading NHSP to close the case. Judy h…
- A Killer At The Door: The Unsolved Murder of Virginia State Trooper Johnny Bowman
The unsolved murder of Virginia State Trooper Johnny Bowman, who was fatally stabbed in front of his family in 1984, is explored. His daughter, who became a law enforcement officer, continues to seek the truth about her father's killer, wi…
- Lover's Lane: The Murder of Cathy Britt
The episode discusses the 1983 murder of Cathy Britt in Baltimore County, Maryland, after she and her partner were attacked in a lovers' lane. This incident followed a similar, non-fatal attack weeks earlier, raising fears of a serial pred…
- A Mountain Town's Code of Silence: The Murders of Earl and Clarissa Gonzales
The episode discusses the unsolved murders of Earl and Clarissa Gonzales, a father and daughter found dead in their Quest, New Mexico home in September 1999. Investigators believe a community code of silence hinders the investigation.
- Disappeared from the Dorms: The Unsolved Case of Michael Negrete
The unsolved disappearance of UCLA freshman Michael Negrete is examined. He was last seen in the early morning hours after attending a dorm party and a late-night computer game, vanishing without a trace over 25 years ago. His case remains…
- Abducted From The Playground: The Kidnapping of Megan Garner
The episode details the 1991 disappearance of three-year-old Megan Garner from a playground. Her mother last saw her briefly separated from her siblings. Despite searches, no trace of Megan has ever been found, and her case remains cold.
- Nothing Is What It Seems: The Unsolved Murder of Donna Emmel
This episode revisits the 1975 unsolved murder of Donna Emmel. Her cousins discuss their investigation into the case, which challenges the commonly accepted narrative and explores potential leads, including a previously identified rapist l…
- I'll Be Right Back: The Unsolved Murder of Sharon Thor
This episode details the unsolved murder of Sharon Thor, a high school dancer killed over 40 years ago in New Jersey. Despite extensive time passing, her case remains open, and her family continues to seek justice and answers.
- House of Horrors: The Disappearance of Martha Martinez Maxwell
This episode covers the disappearance of Martha Martinez Maxwell, a Texas woman who vanished after leaving a violent marriage. Her case, unsolved for nearly two decades, took a dark turn when the abduction of another woman exposed the perp…
- A Frightening Chain of Events: The Unsolved Murders of Julie and Terry Dade
The 1970 murders of Julie and Terry Dade in Oregon remain unsolved after 55 years. Despite a victim's attempt to reach safety, both were killed, leaving a mystery connected to other unsolved cases and serial killers.
- He Walked Into The Night and Vanished: The Disappearance of Ellis Faison Sr.
This episode examines the 1989 disappearance of 64-year-old Ellis Faison Sr. from North Carolina, who vanished after experiencing a mental health crisis. The show explores the investigation launched by his son and the ongoing search for an…
- An Empty Bed and Unending Mystery: The Unsolved Disappearance of Zachary Bernhardt
The episode covers the 1999 disappearance of 8-year-old Zachary Bernhardt from his mother's home in Clearwater, Florida. Despite numerous theories and rumors, the case remains unsolved, with his family continuing their search nearly 25 yea…
- The Classified Ad: The Murder of Linda Sue Dearth
The murder of Linda Sue Dearth in Ohio in January 1973 is examined. Two violent crimes were connected, but the suspect was never caught. Decades later, physical evidence offers hope for solving the case.