Body Bags with Joseph Scott Morgan

Mystery deepens as Gene Hackman and his wife's autopsies are completed and doubts grow over smiling daughter's carbon monoxide theory. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack discuss how  authorities investigating the mysterious death of the legendary actor, his wife,  and their dog have concluded autopsies on both victims. Amid intense speculation about how Hackman and Betsy Arakawa, aged 95 and 64, tragically died inside their $3.8 million home in Sante Fe, New Mexico, investigators  have revealed no external trauma was seen on either body. How did 95-year-old Gene Hackman and his 64-year-old wife die at the same time - in different areas of their home?         Transcribe Highlights 00:00.25 Introduction  05:34.35 Career of Gene Hackman 09:03.74 Father abandoned Gene Hackman when he was 8 13:55.49 Hackman wife is concert pianist 17:13.61 Body Bags now around 350 episodes 20:58.98 Discussion - Hackman is 95, wife is 64 - die at the same time? 24:50.05 Talk about reporting of the case 27:58.09 Why were they found in different areas of house 31:23.12 In public Hackman was leaning on his wife to steady himself 34:56.15 Talk about the search warrant  39:06.13 Discussion of Carbon Monoxide 44:31.40 Looking at the medical history of Hackman 47:35.12 Randy Quaid think Hackman was murdered because of residual money 52:07.40 Discussion of impact open doors could have on remains Conclusion See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Dickerson never believed her daughter, April Holt, committed suicide. Not because she is in denial, but because she knows her daughter was trying to leave her marriage and had told her husband two weeks before her death that she wants a divorce. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack discuss the case, how 29-year-old April Holt is found unresponsive in the bathroom of the home she shares with her husband and son, with a plastic bag taped tightly around her neck. Why is her death ruled a suicide, and what does her mother do to catch the killer and see him go to trial for murder.  This episode discusses domestic abuse and suicide. If you are someone you know is living in a domestic violence situation, there is a toll free number to call:  1-800-799-3233. There is also a number if you are having thoughts of self-harm or even taking your own life, the suicide hotline and Crisis Lifeline - 988.       Transcribe Highlights 00:00.97 IntroductionNOTE - In this episode both domestic violence and suicide will be discussed  05:09.61 Victim's mother solves the crime 09:50.94 Discussion of the "finder" and the "reporter" 14:11.21 Talk about framing of a story for the police on the scene 18:58.24 How cases are classified as "final exit" case 25:00.55 Discussion of broken blood vessels in the cheek 30:20.65 Claim of "sex play" gone too far and staging the scene 35:02.96 Killer sentenced to two-years in prison 39:29.59 Sentence is a "slap in the face to victims of domestic violence" 41:03.67 Conclusion Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-3233                    Suicide Hotline and crisis lifeline - 988 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joseph Donohue's son can't get in touch with the Boston attorney and after two days failing to connect, reaches out to police asking for a welfare check. When Police arrive at the yacht in Boston Harbor, they can see a woman inside running around. When she finally answers the door, the 24-year-old Nora Nelson lies to police - giving them a false name and telling them Donohue was at a "Strip Club". Nelson tries to keep the officers from entering the houseboat but they are insistent, and once inside they find the body of the attorney wrapped in a rug with weights tied to his hands. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack break down the forensic evidence that will be used in court and get into the background of the case of a 65-year-old Attorney dead on his houseboat and the 24-year-old woman with warrants in other states who lies to police from the beginning.     Transcript Highlights00:04.29  Introduction  02:01.09 Living and sleeping on a houseboat 04:49.17 Son calls police asking for a "welfare check" of his father 10:36.80 Female on the boat lies to police 15:01.19 Victim had two dogs living with him 20:11.93 Nora claims blood on boat was from her "period" 25:37.41 What do police do when they find what appears to be a body wrapped in carpet? 30:22.56 Going through crime scene photos prior to trial  35:13.75 Explaining bone density of skull in different places 40:20.98 Looking for "defects" in the skull 44:09.96 Matching the blade of knife with tip part broken off 46:15.65 ConclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 911 call is made by a father who claims he woke up and found his 6-month-old son unresponsive. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack talk about how first responders report the smell of urine and feces in the home and how roaches are seen all over the kitchen. Joe also explains the injuries that led to the beating death of a 6-month-old boy at the hand of his own father.  Kaysyn Hedrick's name was never used by the courts until after his father was sentenced for his murder.             Transcript Highlights 00:00.00  Introduction 05:07.11 Six-month-old child beaten to death by his father 09:50.22 Not releasing child's name 15:11.11 Story about Roaches taking over home 20:01.24 Investigators have to see location of death 25:05.40 Shane Hedrick taken to sheriff's office 30:07.09 Taking the measure of a scene 35:03.98 Deciding on manner and cause of death 40:10.49 Child robbed of his life 47:07.75 ConclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Evelyn Boswell's grandfather reports her missing when he realizes nobody has seen the 15-month-old baby for several weeks. An Amber Alert is issued and Evelyn's mother, Megan Boswell, does interviews on tv and with investigators. Boswell gives three totally different stories about where baby Evelyn is and investigators eventually find the baby in her grandfather's backyard in trash bag located in a child's playhouse. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack discuss the case with Joseph providing expert analysis of the decomposition that would occur under the conditions.            Transcript Highlights00:01.58 Introduction02:58.46 Amber Alert - Baby Evelyn Boswell 05:18.99 Grandfather reports Baby Evelyn missing10:06.94 Megan Boswell tells multiple stories15:11.50 How does investigation move forward when main person is lying?20:38.25 Megan Boswell trying to deceive investigators25:14.65 Evelyn Boswell found in a trash bag inside playhouse30:25.87 Manner of death is Homicide.35:05.39 Body had been "unnaturally folded"40:37.51 latent prints found on tin foil44:02.48 ConclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A landlord staging a property in preparation for a new tenant, sees what appears to be the foot of a child sticking out of the ground. The landlord calls police, and they find the remains of 9-year-old Zemar King III buried in a shallow grave. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack talk about how the mother of Zemar King, Brandee Pierce,  is caught in Georgia in January, where she is already in jail, charged with abuse of her three-year-old days before Christmas. Joseph Scott Morgan also explains how investigators determined how Brandee Pierce "smothered" and "choked" her 9-year-old son to death before burying him in a backyard grave and then skipping town.          Transcript Highlights00:00.01 Introduction01:53.70 Zemar King, little boy left in shallow grave by his mother04:57.48 Would a human foot look different than a plastic foot in the dirt?10:25.76 Investigators benefit from "containment"14:33.47 Reactionary event, panic19:12.14 How long has it been since victim died24:41.84 What actually happened to Zemar?30:15.49 Hands and feet of Zemar were tied together36:24.94 Determining how Zemar died - smothering / neck compression39:28.72 Conclusion: Case is still active, we will updateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

James Dennis Ford and Richard Lee Tabler were both executed on February 13, 2025. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack discuss the crimes that led both men to be sentenced to death as well as take a look at methods for carrying out the death sentence. They also discuss what Bryan Kohberger might face if he is convicted in the Idaho Student murders. James Dennis Ford murdered Gregory and Kimberly Malnory while on a fishing trip. Ford  shot Gregory Malnory in the head with a .22-caliber rifle, bludgeoned him, and slit his throat. Ford then raped, beat, and shot Kimberly Malnory. All of this in front of their 23-month old daughter, Maranda Malnory, who was left behind as Ford fled the scene. Maranda was found nearly a day later -  dehydrated and covered in insect bites by an employee of a nearby sod farm. Florida executed James Dennis Ford by lethal injection. One Hour Later: Richard Lee Tabler was 24 when he  fatally shot four people in 2004. He has always admitted this, but was only tried and convicted for the murders of Mohamed-Amine Rahmouni, 25, and Haitham Frank Zayed, 28.  Texas used a lethal injection of pentobarbital to kill the 46-year-old Tabler, whose mother and sister were among the witnesses to the execution.       Transcript Highlights 00:00.91 Introduction 04:34.95 Two executions take place on the same day09:08.11 During murders, mother puts 23-month old daughter in car14:42.77 Being present for autopsy of person sentenced to death20:08.51 Convict said to have mind of a child25:14.09 Victims lured to death29:14.60 Tabler gets "saved" while in prison38:48.20 Discussion of Capital Punishment qualified43:11.80 Using Capital punishment as a deterrent 48:10.55 ConclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are at least five murders attributed to "Jack the Ripper". Mary Ann Nichols: The first confirmed victim, murdered on August 31, 1888 Annie Chapman: Murdered on September 8, 1888 Elizabeth Stride: Murdered on September 30, 1888 Catherine Eddoweson: Murdered on September 30, 1888 Mary Jane Kelly: Murdered on November 9, 1888 Some people believe there were victims prior to August 31, 1888, and after November 9, 1888. That is a discussion for a different day. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack discuss the evidence that includes DNA from one of the victims as well as a possible suspect and how working with genealogists led investigators to the only person that could have provided the DNA found on the shawl of Catherine Eddoweson.  Case Solved!     Transcript Highlights 00:00.46 Introduction of Jack The Ripper case 04:02.28 Joe Scott describes time in London 09:11.12 Immigration impact 13:35.86 Murders included in the Jack the Ripper case 18:35.25 Studying the case 22:25.38 Developing skills with knife 28:47.48 Suspect described - leather apron 34:15.31 Ripper Case sold a lot of news papers 38:55.85 DNA from Shawl 43:45.68 Victim and suspect DNA evidence 49:28.75 Suspect was "hair dresser" as well as barber 50:13.83 ConclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When a young newly engaged couple pick up a couple bottles of "Homemade" Limoncello from a local restaurant, they assume they are buying a product that is safe to consume. Greta Marie Otteson, 33, and Els Arno Quinton, 36 are world travelers, she from Great Brittain, he from South Africa, and are celebrating their recent engagement.  Cleaning service shows up to clean their room on Boxing Day (December 26) and discovers the couple dead.  Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack take a look what really happened to the couple and other world travelers who are suffering the same or similar fate.           Transcript Highlights 00:12.79 Introduction: Mardi Gras - Drinking Alcohol 05:07.20 Ethanol vs methanol 10:05.13 "Homemade" Limoncello 15:13.03 Alcohol effects 20:06.36 Atlanta Bathtub gin 25:01.39 Alcohol - different types 30:21.77 Victim contacted mother, talks about worst hangover 35:31.07 Tourist dying drinking methanol instead of ethanol 40:02.02 Methanol poisoning, suspects being charged with murder 43:17.41 ConclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christy Giles, 24, and Hilda Cabrales-Arzola, 26, go out for a "Girls Night" of dancing and fun. Hilda is an interior designer and architect and Christy has been modeling since she was a teen, and is now becoming an actress. Dancing at an after party the girls meet a hollywood producer, David Pierce and a couple of his friends. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack discuss what happened after Christy and Hilda went back to Pierce's apartment and how each woman was dumped on the sidewalk at different hospitals hours apart by men wearing masks in a car without a license plate            Transcript Highlights 00:00.00 Introduction - producersprocess. 03:02.04 Christy and Hilda - Girls night out, never made it back home 08:07.00 Both women dropped off at hospitals, license plates removed from vehicle 12:01.75 Worst case scenario for medical professionals 16:31.12 UBER arrives, leaves without Christy and Hilda 21:27.31 How fast drugs breakdown in system   27:11.05 Hilda had different drugs than Christy in her system 32:32.43 When charges against Pierce became public, more women came forward 34:31.88 ConclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Nebraska a 56-year-old man dies alone in his apartment. He seemed to be in good health and his family wants to know what happened. A police officer decides the man died of "Natural Causes" so no autopsy is performed. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack talk about legal death investigation and who makes the call when it comes to the "Manner of Death".   Transcribe Highlights 00:00.00 Introduction 04:38.56 Story of regret 10:35.89 Things that appear to be "natural" 15:35.28 When the coroner is elected position 20:18.72 Who makes a great legal death investigator 25:37.62 Determining manner and cause of death 30:50.66 Discussion of Coroner state 35:20.27 What qualifies a police officer to determine "natural causes"? 37:06.32 ConclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The death of Ellen Greenberg was initially ruled a homicide, but without warning or explanation, Doctor Marlon Osbourne changed the ruling to suicide. Ellen's parents have spent the last 14 years trying to have it changed back to homicide, or undetermined.  The Greenberg's have two civil suits about the case, one headed for the state supreme court later this year, but on the first day of jury selection for the other case, a settlement is reached. Doctor Marlon Osbourne, who conducted the autopsy on Ellen Greenberg as the former assistant medical examiner with the ME's office, signed a sworn verification statement in which he says he now believes Ellen's manner of death should be designated as something other than suicide. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack discuss the case and breakdown how this change impacts the case today and in the future.     Transcribe Highlights 00:00:00 Introduction 03:29.50 Dr. Osbourne changes ruling from homicide to suicide 07:23.79 The life of Ellen Greenberg 12:21.71 location of injuries 17:19.04 Joe talks about autopsy 22:22.18 Greenberg had active day, no issues 27:36.97 Classification of "manner of death" 32:45.96 Giving a statement to police 37:06.32 Steps in death investigation  42:48.71 Conclusion  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Best Friends Jennifer Duey, 20,  and Michelle Xavier, 18, attended a birthday dinner for a family member and are last seen together around 10:15 p.m Saturday, February 1, 1986, at a convenience store.  Just over two hours later Jennifer and Michelle are found dead on the side of the road, nude, their clothing hung on a barbed wire fence.  Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack discuss the crime scene and how DNA was used to get a conviction after 40 years as a cold case. In a shocking turn, after being convicted of the double homicide, David Misch sings "99 bottles of beer" during victim impact statements and sentencing           Transcript Highlights 00:00.71 Introduction 01:29.45 Last Photo taken of victims 04:48.63 Joe Shares personal story of recent health issue 08:06.47 February 2, 1986, Jennifer and Michelle go to dinner party 10:50.46 Discussion of how victims came in contact with suspect 15:22.11 Jennifer and Michelle bodies found by person on motorcycle 20:06.70 Victims were nude, clothing hung on barbed wire fence 24:56.80 Jennifer killed by gunshot wounds 30:01.86 In rape cases, searching for forced sexual trauma 35:15.81 In 1986 DNA was known, but it wasn't until 2016 it was used to find suspect in this case 40:00.58 Convicted individuals acting out in court 46:01.90 ConclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The autopsy of Noah Presgrove is released and for the first time in the history of Body Bags with Joseph Scott Morgan, Joe is going to issue you a warning for what you are about to hear. Noah Presgrove is at a birthday, end of summer, labor day party with friends all weekend. But something happened Sunday night to cause Noah to leave the party by himself. He is found the next morning at 5:53am, alone, dead, on the side of a rural highway. He is naked except for a pair of shoes, but one of the shoes isn't his, it belongs to a guy asleep at the house where the party took place. The "friends" he has known all of his life aren't talking. His brother sees teeth scattered near his brother's body and pieces of chain. Who or What killed Noah Presgrove? Will the autopsy help answer the question?         Transcript Highlights 00:00:08 Introduction: Growing up in rural area 00:03:10 Talk about List of Injuries 00:05:17 Discussion of group dynamics 00:09:12 Discussion of what happens to clothing   00:12:27 Talk about social media evidence 00:16:11 Discussion of internal injuries 00:20:26 Discussion of injuries cased by falling out of a truck 00:24:14 Talk about skull fractures 00:28:32 Discussion of brain fluid 00:32:52 Discussion of broke teeth 00:36:03 Talk about animals and body on road 00:37:52 Discussion of cervical injuries 00:40:00 Discussion of abrasions 00:41:47 Talk about being hit by car 00:43:59 Discussion of data 00:44:17 Conclusion; After the autopsy we still don’t have answers See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A family moves to the country to get away from the crime of the big city only to find that evil exists in small towns and big cities alike. A 17-year-old girl develops a close bond to a harmless older neighbor, but the harmless old man is really a wolf in sheep's clothing and when the 17-year-old goes missing the neighbor helps look as hard as anyone. As long as nobody comes to his house to look too close. For 173 days the girl is missing, her heartbroken parents don't realize she is only 100 feet away from their front door. Buried in a homemade box, just for her. Joseph Scott Morgan breaks down the case of the teen girl hidden away in a homemade coffin and how difficult it will be to get the evidence to determine what really caused her death. Dave Mack joins in on the search for facts, and Valerie Tindall.       Transcript 00:01:02 Discussion of 173 days without knowing location of your child 00:02:26 Valerie Tindall, 17, and missing 00:03:29 Mother said Patrick Scott acted like jealous boyfriend 00:04:21 Discussion of age difference 00:06:55 Valerie Tindall is missing 00:10:00 Talk about Forensic Anthropology 00:11:28 Disturbed areas of soil in backyard  00:12:30 17-year-old girl bonds with 59-year-old man, odd 00:13:22 What does FBI mean to a case 00:14:32 The neighbor Valerie has “bond” with charged with lying to police 00:16:03 Discussion of providing false hope to lure out suspect 00:17:24 Investigators wonder if someone is helping her stay gone 00:18:29 Victim has been missing since June 00:22:24 Bright Orange fingernail polish Valerie Tindall was wearing 00:23:29 Taking down a structure, burning, why? 00:27:17 Talk about the VHS tapes found in box 00:29:11 Discussion of murder weapon, a belt 00:30:56 Suspect claims he is the victim?  00:32:29 Discussion about condition of the body  00:33:39 Why did the suspect dig holes in his property? 00:35:17 Talk about the story from the suspect does not make sense 00:36:35 Some evidence might have been lost  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At least 12 bodies have been pulled from "Lady Bird Lake" in Austin, Texas in the last 22 months. Some can be explained as deaths that happen on or near a lake, but not all. On this episode of Body Bags Joseph Scott Morgan will break down the difference between a regular death in a lake and a possible serial killer, while Dave Mack breaks down the stories behind the victims.                   Transcript Highlights00:16.18 Introduction about water and murder03:37.66 Discussion does Austin have a serial killer?08:13.12 Discussion what does "serial killer" do to an area13:22.11 Talk about other serial killers, were they really caught17:54.47 Talk about witnessing a death on the water22:03.17 Discussion of toxicology27:53.13 Discussion of victims32:38.32 Talk about water as a dumping ground36:26.16 Discussion of decomposition in water40:04.57 Talk about water flow47:42.83 Discussion about rumors over factConclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

OnlyFans and Instagram model, Courtney Tailor, is rich and famous. She is  living in a luxury high-rise in Edgewater, Miami, Florida and has banked over $3 Million dollars in the two years leading up to the death of her boyfriend, Christian Obumseli.Her real name is Courtney Clenney and she is charged with second-degree murder with a deadly weapon in the death of Christian Obumseli, 27, in her high-rise Miami-area apartment on April 3, 2022.  Clenney claims she killed Obumseli in self-defense. Joseph Scott Morgan takes an up-close look at recently released information about what happened that fateful night and provides new insight into the death of Christian Obumseli. Was it self-defense or murder?      Transcript Highlights 00:00:00 Introduction of case - why would you throw your only weapon? 00:02:00 A single stab wound by a thrown knife 00:06:37 Courtney Clenney and boyfriend fought 00:10:56 Funny stuff about throwing knives 00:15:26 911 call, victim says "I'm going to die" 00:19:43 Clenney claims she through kitchen knife from 10 feet away 00:24:16 Discussion of laptop, text messages, email 00:28:26 The Love of Money 00:30:55 Courtney Clenney, drunk, approaches teen in parents neighborhood 00:33:23 Conclusion – portent of things to comeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of "Body Bags," we unravel the harrowing story of Shaye Groves, a woman consumed by her obsession with serial killers and ultimately implicated in the brutal murder of her boyfriend, Frankie Fitzgerald Delving into the chilling fascination that permeated her life and relationships, the hosts uncover the disturbing evidence that led to the gruesome crime. Hosts Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack explore the challenges investigators face when encountering an unfamiliar crime scene and the unsettling environment they discover including a macabre collection of serial killer images and the couple's history of violent, videotaped sex acts. They discuss Shaye Groves' possible premeditation of the murder, her manipulation and blackmail of previous partners through recorded sex acts, and her meticulous execution of the crime, such as using bleach to clean up the scene.    Shownotes: 00:20 - Intro to case. 02:10 - Dave Mack gives background and overview of case. 04:10 - What impact did having serial killer images in her home have on Shay Groves and her mindset? 05:25 - The disturbing nature of Shay Groves' obsession and how it relates to the crime and her life. 07:10 - Shay Groves and Frankie Fitzgerald's romantic relationship and Shaye's controlling nature. 09:25 - Challenges investigators face when entering an unfamiliar crime scene and disturbing evidence and how their first impressions can impact their investigation. 11:50 - The couple's history of violent sex acts captured on video and how this escalated. 14:00 - The use of bleach in morgue cleanups and how the smell of bleach can linger, connecting it to the crime scene. 15:10 - Possibility of Shea Groves planning the murder and the use of bleach to clean the crime scene. 19:50 - Shea's obsession with serial killers, dark imagery, and the types of knives used in the murder. 21:55 - JoScott talks about the differences between single-edged and double-edged knife wounds. 24:40 - The catastrophic loss of blood that led to Frankie's death and Shaye’s possible motives and methods during the attack. 26:40 - Determining if any wounds were inflicted post-mortem and whether the crime was a torture event or a dark fantasy acted out by Shaye. 28:54 - Outro.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dylan Redwine is forced to spend Thanksgiving with his father in Colorado. He doesn't want to be there because he knows some things about his father, secret, disgusting things, and he just doesn't want to be around him. But due to his parent divorce he has to go. Dylan Redwine goes missing, his dad suggests a bear might have got him. It takes time, but in the end, Forensics will tell the entire story of what happened to Dylan Redwine.Join Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack as they break down a story that took years to finish and includes blood, sex, knives, and bones.          Time Code Highlights. 00:01:40 Redwine Murder was one of the first Joseph Scott Morgan covered in media 00:04:00 Dylan must go to his father’s house in Colorado for Thanksgiving   00:05:08 Mark Redwine house burned down previously 00:07:03 Discussion of children of divorce, Dylan did not want to be with his father 00:08:20 Talk about pictures Dylan and his brother saw on their dad’s computer 00:09:30 Joe talks the information he was given to cover story on network show 00:11:03 Pictures of Mark Redwine in lingerie, makeup, eating out of diaper 00:13:09 Joe tells story of being embarrassed comparing it to how Mark Redwine was embarrassed his children found out about secret pictures 00:15:00 Discussion about the boys confronting their father over his pictures 00:16:50 Talk about Mark Redwine responding to Corey about the pictures 00:19:25 Joe talks about Mark Redwine being humiliated and angry 00:20:45 Redwine claims he went to store, Dylan was gone when he got back 00:21:35 Discussion about Corey Redwine being several years older than Dylan 00:22:45 Talk about forensics and how nothing is ever hidden 00:24:04 Joe talks about a dog finding blood in the home 00:26:05 Blood from Dylan would have to have been from recent visit 00:30:04 Joe talks about a murder case without a body 00:31:00 Both femurs of Dylan Redwine found 8 miles from Mark Redwine home 00:32:43 Bones found on a road could have been drug by an animal 00:34:14 Determining whether the bones were separated by human using tools 00:36:05 Talk about Mark Redwine mentioning something to a friend about blunt force trauma and they would need to find his head 00:37:45 Dylan Redwine skull found 00:39:00 No animals in the area that would drag remains up the mountain 00:40:10 Talk about surface deposition 00:41:05 Mark Redwine said Dylan may have been attacked by a bear.   00:43:50 What the skull tells investigators. Took several months to identify 00:45:12 Joe explains using sinus for identification 00:46:45 Skull fractures show blunt force trauma. Two linear marks consistent with a knife blade found on skull. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recorded LIVE at CrimeCon Nashville, 2024:In this episode of Body Bags, Joseph Scott Morgan explains how he challenges his class at Jacksonville State University to try and solve a cold case. Two years in a row, two different classes and students chose the unsolved murder of Blake Chappell. Blake Chappell tells his mother he is having the best night of his life with his girlfriend at the East Coweta High School Homecoming Dance.Within a matter of hours, Blake will find himself chased out of his girlfriend’s house in the middle of the night, walking down the road at 5 a.m. texting his girlfriend, and telling her police just stopped and talked to him. One last text to his girlfriend that he is getting cold, and his phone goes quiet.Blake Chappell is 17 and he never makes it back to his friend’s house. He just vanishes into thin air. It is October 16, 2011. Two months later on December 17, 2011, his nearly naked body is found floating in a creek, he has been shot in the back of the head.The case is still unsolved. But new search warrants were served in March 2024, will there be justice for Blake Chappell?        Transcript Highlights 00:00:13 Introduction Blake Chappel Case 00:04:40 Discuss of family financial issues 00:08:28 Blake finds ex-girlfriend who ran away 00:10:32 Blake beaten up by ex’s stepfather 00:12:26 Blake put in jail for finding his ex 00:17:35 Mother takes Blake and date to homecoming dance 00:20:48 Discussion of Blake activities walking in the night 00:24:24 Talk about Blake walking miles to see girlfriend 00:28:08 Talk about Blake texting girlfriend 00:31:49 Talk about Blake doesn’t make it back to Austin’s house 00:37:36 Discussion Blake shot in back of head 00:43:22 Discussion rumors about Blake’s death 00:48:12 Discussion Blake found wearing underwear, no shoes 00:52:34 Conclusion Joseph Scott Morgan lets his JSU class pick unsolved crime to solve Two years in a row the case of Blake Chappel is chosen for the project See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the last few years, more and more death scenes involve dismemberment.An "obsessed" true crime fan in South Korea thinks she can pull off the perfect murder, so how did Jung Yoo-Jung get caught? Taylor Schabusiness tells police she doesn't remember strangling her boyfriend, but it felt good. She leaves his severed head in a bucket for his mother to find.And in Tennessee, prosecutors say Joel Guy Jr created a "diabolical stew of human remains" with his mother's head when he finds out his parents are cutting him off.Joseph Scott Morgan breaks down the forensics and Dave Mack keeps the stories moving in this fast-paced edition of Body Bags with Joseph Scott Morgan in front of a live audience at CrimeCon 2023 in Orlando, Florida       Time Code Highlights. 00:02:50 South Korean Woman Jung Yoo-Jung is said to be an obsessed crime fan 00:03:17 Discussion of how 23-year-old woman pretends to be a 14-year-old school girl 00:04:19 Jung Yoo-jung wants to commit a homicide and dismember the victim to try and get away with murder.. 00:05:33  Her plan is to kill, dismember, and dispose of the victim.  00:06:27 Talks about the tools needed to do the job she wants to do 00:10:19 What would she used to clean up the area? 00:12:00 Talk about Gilgo and Rex Heuermann 00:12:44 Talking about the getaway and getting rid of the remains 00:12:57 To commit the perfect crime she uses a cab as a getaway car, leads to her capture 00:14:39 Joseph Scott Morgan tells story of transporting a head as a young man working in New Orleans with the coroner. 00:15:52  Under no circumstances are you to allow this bot this head out of your sight. 00:16:23 Had to use a cooler with ice to transport the head 00:18:40 Discussion about Taylor Schabusiness case. 00:19:14 The mother of the victim finds his head in bucket 00:20:20 Discussion of the relationship between suspect and victim 00:21:56 Schabusiness told police she didn't remember strangling him, but she remembered liking it. 00:23:16 She told police, you found this part of him, good luck finding the rest 00:25:48  Discussion about the types of knives needed to do what was done to the victim 00:27:46 Talk about the forensics of different types of blades 00:30:47 Joe Scott Morgan talks about the time it takes to dismember a body 00:32:09 Joel Guy Jr, created a game plan for what he was going to do to his parents 00:32:23 Discussion about Joel Guy Jr and why he killed his parents 00:34:18 Joel Guy Jr stabbed his parents to death, then cut them up. 00:35:04 Talk about police interrupted Joel Guy Jr and found his "list" of things to do 00:39:42 Discussion of the medical examiner at the trial 00:40:09 Talk about anti-mortem and post-mortem 00:43:11 Joseph Scott Morgan explains the way a body can be disarticulatedSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recorded live in front of a studio audience at CrimeCon in Las Vegas, forensics expert Joseph Scott Morgan re-examines the injuries to Ellen Greenberg. The teacher and soon-to-be-bride, is found death in her apartment with more than 20 stab wounds, and her death is ruled a suicide. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A final look at items brought up in the recent Netflix documentary about JonBenet Ramsey and her death. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack talk about the crime scene with Joe breaking down the mistakes that were made and how they have nothing to do with technology. Also, a question that has never been answered regarding the "ransom" note. What type of "kidnapper" kills the person and leaves a "ransom" note? Who would pay a "ransom" for the "safe return" of a loved one when the "loved one" is already dead and in the house?      Transcribe Highlights00:00.41 Introduction 02:00.28 No excuses for evidence mistakes 04:54.75 Never Ask Father of missing 6-year-old search the house 10:06.27 The physical things seen in strangling 14:34.80 Why leave the body AND ransom note 19:53.52 Why ask for $118,000? 24:28.50 The reason for the ransom note is dead 29:07.64 JonBenet was beaten, skull was fractured 32:10.35 ConclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A fire was reported November 7th, 2024,  at Broadmoor Self-Storage in Kentwood, Michigan.  Firefighters cut the lock off unit 454, and discovered the body of Corinne Abosamra. Morgan Wingeier rented a storage unit at Broadmoor Self-Storage and allowed Corinne Abosamra to live in the unit.  On the day of the fire, Wingeier left Abosamra in the unit and locked it with a pad lock on the outside. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack discuss what is known so far about the death of Abosamra and look closely at the evidence to see if it leads to accident or murder.           Transcribe Highlights 00:00.41 Introduction 02:00.28 Renting a Storage Unit 04:54.75 At a fire scene, everything looks the same 09:06.27 Would someone rent a storage unit to render down a body 14:34.80 Finding charred remains in the storage unit 19:53.52 Did Morgan Wingeier forget she locked Abosamra in storage unit 24:28.50 Victim was in the unit for 10 hours before fire was seen 29:07.64 Wingeier didn't return to the storage unit 34:10.35 Heat coming off a fire, no escape 39:47.36 Conclusion  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is a story of the Wagner family and the Rhoden family.  Jake Wagner and Hanna Rhoden began dating when Hanna was 13 and Jake was 18.  Hanna became pregnant with Jake's baby when she was 15. Those who knew Jake Wagner and Hanna Rhoden said that Jake Wagner was very controlling and had been verbally and physically abusive to Hanna. Hanna Rhoden broke up with Jake Wagner and they both dated other people. Hanna had a child with another man and Jake Wagner married another woman, briefly. The Wagner family wanted custody of Sophia and accused Hanna Rhoden of dating men that might sexually assault Sophia. There was no proof this was the case, but it fueled the rage in the Wagner family toward Hanna Rhoden. When the Wagner's tried to force Hanna Rhoden to sign papers to turn custody of Sophia over to Jake Wagner, she refused and posted a message on Facebook that she would “never sign papers ever. They will have to kill me first.” That is when the Wagner family decided to kill Hanna Rhoden, as well as her relatives so that custody would fall to them.  Jake Wagner allegedly began a relationship with Hanna Rhoden when she was 13, impregnating her when she was 15 and he was 20. In addition to homicide, he has been charged with unlawful sexual conduct with a minor. After she ended the relationship, prosecutors say, he began threatening her.The bodies of the Rhoden family members were first discovered on the morning of April 22, 2016 by Bobby Jo Manley, the ex-sister of Chris Rhoden Sr.There were four locations and eight victims, all killed in one night.  The victims were: Hannah Hazel Gilley, 20,  Clarence “Frankie” Rhoden, 20,  Hanna May Rhoden, 19, Dana Lynn Manley Rhoden, 37, Christopher Don Rhoden Jr., 16, Christopher Don Rhoden Sr., 40, Gary Dwayne Rhoden, 38, and Kenneth Wayne Rhoden, 44. Pike County Massacre - sentencing Confessed killer gets life in prison with chance for parole Angela Wagner - 30 years with possibility of parole (credited with six years and six weeks served) Jake Wagner sentenced to Life with Possibility of Parole after 32 years Rita Newcomb sentenced to 5 years of probation and $750 fine Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack talk about some of the decisions that have been made in the case of the Piketon Massacre. Breaking down the crimes of the night, four locations in one night, wiping out generations of one family, moving an infant child next to the bosom of his dead mother so the baby can suckle if he gets hungry. Joe explains each crime scene to help explain what type of planning was required.        Piketon MassacreTranscript Highlights 00:00.01 Introduction 02:55.22 Sentencing at Piketon 06:05.91 Mother was the Puppetmaster 10:12.49 Not a death penalty case 15:21.13 Hannah was 13 when she began dating Jake 20:01.28 Hannah says "I'm never signing any papers 25:29.20 Mother bought new shoes at Walmart 30:29.13 Angela Wagner hung baskets in kitchen  34:57.12 Piketon Massacre sentencing  40:35.65 Is this really the best outcome 46:06.07 ConclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The top 3 most downloaded episodes of "Body Bags with Joseph Scott Morgan" over the last year:# 3 SHOCKING Crime Scene Photos Tell New Story About Gypsy Rose# 2 Missing Mom Murder Trial: Blood Evidence Could Prove She's Not Missing# 1 Evil Has a Tattoo Face: The Death of Two Women Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack talk about the most downloaded episodes of Body Bags and add some new information and theories to some of the most downloaded episodes of the last year.        Transcribe Highlights 00:00.13 Introduction  00:37.20 Top Three Most Downloaded, #3 Gypsy Rose Blanchard 06:01.07 Dee Dee Blanchard, hoarder, claims she and Gypsy Rose are refugees from Katrina 11:14.91 Dee Dee Blanchard was a big woman 13:21.58 Number Two most downloaded show  18:51.02 Early on Jennifer Dulos reported missing 23:20.33 Body of Jennifer Dulos has not been found 28:15.87 Wade Wilson - Tattoo Face  33:40.07 Not Deadpool- Wilson charged with two murders 38:33.79 Wilson Case gets attention because of tattoos 40:38.31 Wilson Dad believed he would kill again    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The top 10 Countdown of most downloaded episodes of "Body Bags with Joseph Scott Morgan" continues with episodes Six, Five, and Four: 6. Missing 2-years Before Anyone Looked; What Happened to Harmony Montgomery5. Murder of Suicide? The Death of Jeffrey Epstein4. The House is Gone; The Idaho Student Murders Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack review each of the shows with a critical eye toward new information as well as taking a closer look at decisions made in the cases. 00:00.51 Introduction  02:45.81 Harmony Montgomery, missing 08:38.57 Harmony missing two years before anyone said anything 11:49.64 Adam Montgomery hits Harmony and kills her 18:38.50 Jeffry Epstein, underage girls from Europe 23:14.67 Epstein and Maxwell - what happened to the girls 28:21.02 Hanging as suicide vs judicial hanging 33:40.07 Why are there two pronounced marks on Epstein neck 38:19.47 Time and location - Tearing down Idaho Student murder house 42:22.67 How important is seeing the actual physical scene of the crime 48:36.71 Is there any downside to leaving house until after trial 52:26.83 Conclusion - Coming up the top three    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

January 1, 2025  WednesdayWe start off the new year by taking a look at the top 10 most downloaded shows of the last year.  Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack talk about the shows and provide updated information and new forensic information that has come out since the episodes were first recorded. This first episode covers from number Ten to number Seven:#10  SHOCKING AUTOPSY: Who or What Killed Noah Presgrove?#  9. The New Epidemic: Fentanyl#  8. Married Couple Missing 3 Weeks, The Torture death of the Josephs# 7. The Monster is Real: Dad's New Girlfriend Kills Baby with Nail Polish Remover."         Transcribe Highlights   00:00.13 Introduction01:28.03 The death of Noah Presgrove05:27.26 Description of skull fracture10:05.70 Moving a body - intent?  Was Noah pushed out of vehicle15:06.89 Fentanyl - not naturally occurring19:15.88 Babies explore the world with their hands24:14.86 The Tortue death of the Josephs29:21.59 Two kettle bells purchased at Walmart34:03.29 "The Monster is Real: Dad's New Girlfriend Kills Baby with Nail Polish Remover"39:53.50 Conclusion See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Body Bags, hosts Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack unpack the chilling homicide of famed neurosurgeon Dr. Devon Hoover, who was found in his Detroit mansion. They discuss the details of the murder, the physical evidence, the complexities of the gunshot wounds, the forensics, and theorize about the identity of the murderer and their familiarity with the residence.   Time-codes: 00:00 - Introduction. 01:20 - Dr. Devon Hoover. 02:45 - of Dr. Hoover's grand home and his profession. 05:30 - The demanding path to neurosurgery. 07:40 - Skills required for neurosurgery. 08:10 - Dr. Hoover's personality and devotion to work. 0:00 - Introduction to "crawlspace" in relation to the murder. 12:15 - Discovery of Dr. Hoover's body in the attic crawlspace. 13:00 - Peculiarities in the murder scene. 15:30 - Postmortem changes and body positioning. 16:40 - Importance of postmortem interval in the case. 17:15 - Speculation on potential suspects and motives. 18:55 - Dr. Hoover's attic. 20:00 - Forensic analysis of Dr. Hoover's gunshot wounds and the intimate nature of the crime. 23:20 - Evidence suggesting the perpetrator's familiarity with the house. 26:10 - Detailed impact of a close-range gunshot wound. 28:30 - Examination of the array of forensic tests. 30:30 - Observations indicating the murderer might be known to the victim, such as lack of forced entry. 31:05 - Perpetrator's meticulous body cover-up, suggesting a personal connection. 32:55 - Outro.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonnie and Clyde killed at least nine police officers and four civilians during their 21-month crime spree from 1932 to 1934. The couple were also responsible for several Bank robberies, gas stations hold-ups , and burglaries. They weren't very good thieves, as they rarely got away with more than $80. In this episode of Body Bags, Joseph Scott Morgan will explain how Bonnie Parker suffered so many bullet holes her body had to be plugged to hold embalming fluid, and Dave Mack will take you behind the scenes in the woods with Frank Hamer and Manny Gault as they brought down the  murderous "Bonnie and Clyde".        Transcript Highlights 00:00:10 Introduction of human destruction 00:02:09 Description of Bienville Parish 00:05:24 Description of Bonnie and Clyde car on display 00:08:14 Discussion Bonnie 23, Clyde 25 00:11:15 Talk about Bonnie and Clyde murder young cop 00:15:11 Discussion about State Coroners convention 00:18:05 Discussion about transcribing 00:21:32 Talk about Bonnie and Clyde murdering cops 00:25:57 Discussion of BB Episode about Coroner system 00:28:21 Talk about autopsy of famous people 00:31:41 Discussion of Dr. Wade and others at the autopsy 00:35:00 Discussion of injuries suffered by Bonnie Parker 00:37:42 Conclusion: Bonnie and Clyde meet their end See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On March 15th in 44 B.C. Julius Caesar, the Roman dictator, was assassinated by a group of senators who stabbed him 23 times during a Senate meeting.The senators claimed Caesar's concentration of power threatened the Roman Republic. However, their efforts to restore the Republic failed, and the aftermath led to a civil war and the rise of the Roman Empire. His death also led to the earliest recorded autopsy in history.In this episode of Body Bags, forensics expert Joseph Scott Morgan and special guest co-host Dave Mack discuss the purpose of autopsies, Caesar's life, and leadership, the details of how he was attacked, the injuries sustained, and how this event shaped the course of history.          Show Notes:0:00 - Intro1:12 - Background and overview 2:35 - What’s the purpose of an autopsy?4:05 - Caesar’s life and work as a leader7:15 - The day of Caesar’s assassination9:15 - How the attack happened10:50 - Caesar’s autopsy13:20 - After someone is stabbed multiple times does blood keep flowing or will it eventually stop after a few hours?17:10 - Could the doctor have attributed Caesar’s death to blood loss? 20:10 - What was the assassination plan for Caesar? Were there other injuries and what was Caesar's condition afterward?22:10 - Where was the autopsy done?23:40 - The start of 3D modeling25:30 - How this event shaped history27:05 -  OutroSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Twenty eight years ago today, six-year-old JonBenet Ramsey was murdered. The case has remained in the spotlight for nearly three decades and still, no arrest has been made and no suspect has been named.  Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack discuss the case and what evidence is still available for testing as well as the new documentary on Netflix.           Transcript Highlights 00:02.48 Introduction 28 Years today03:08.70 Talk about Netflix doc08:27.79 Anger directed at the parents12:45.76 DNA Evidence, what happened at scene15:56.55 Public told of strangulation, not about head trauma20:06.75 Joe Scott talks about students studying autopsy report24:31.16 Forensic needs to do DNA profile would have had to be robust at the time29:13.54 DNA found on the hands of JonBenet34:58.76 Police at scene have no excuse for what happened39:11.38  ConclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The murder of 6-year-old JonBenet Ramsey the day after Christmas 1996 shocked the nation. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack discuss the investigation that was in trouble from the moment the 911 call was made by Patsy Ramsey. Joe Scott also goes deep explaining the shocking injuries suffered by JonBenet and the very specific knot that was used to strangle the little girl.  Part One of Two             Transcript Highlights 00:02.48 Introduction01:58.70 The JonBenet Ramsey Story 04:41.79 The new Bio on Netflix10:58.76 B-Roll video had a lot to do with media coverage15:38.55 Girls on stage performing19:08.75 Meeting John Ramsey at CrimeCon24:40.16 The death of Patsy Ramsey28:33.54 The 911 Call 33:32.76 The evaluation at the scene38:11.38 Description of head injuries43:26.73 The strangling and destruction of her skull47:07.45 Ruining the scene with DNA from guests/friends53:10.26 Conclusion - Dad recovers her daughter, destroying evidenceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part One of "The Public Execution of a CEO: The Murder of Brian Thompson" Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack discussed the background of the alleged shooter and how the weapon involved would work. In Part Two, Joseph Scott Morgan goes in-depth into the weapon and ammunition used as well as the physical damage that would be done to a person hit with such ammunition. Dave Mack covers what was written in the "notebook" found in Luigi Mangione's backpack when he was arrested as well as "The Manifesto" Mangione is alleged to have written as well as the charges he currently faces.     Transcript Highlights 00:00:00.71 Introduction Part Two 00:00:27.62 Hardware used - Ghost Gun  00:04:53.34 Ammunition used 00:09:16.25 Words Written on shells 00:14:12.34 Words written on shells 00:18:59.48 Handwriting analysis 00:23:22.98 Mansion was not a customer of United Healthcare 00:26:10.23 The Notebook and the Manifesto 00:31:12.50 Conclusion See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode of Body Bags with Joseph Scott Morgan is a look at the death and autopsy of John Wilkes Booth.  Booth shot Abraham Lincoln from behind around 10:15 pm April 14, 1865. He died the next morning, April 15, at 7:22 am. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack will uncover the track that Booth took as he tried to escape, and finally being shot himself. Joseph Scott Morgan will make you feel like you witnessed the autopsy yourself as he explains, in great detail, the autopsy of John Wilkes Booth.                Transcribe Highlights00:13.63 Introduction - autopsy of John Wilkes Booth01:45.79 Discuss Forensic expert is a history fan05:09.53 Talk about the Booth acting family08:22.93 Discussion of how Booth wrecked everything12:47.62.Talk about Booth jumping to stage18:45.53 Discussion of expectation22:49.66 Talk about the conspiracy27:50.24.Discussion of Booth broken leg32:01.96 Talk about comparing Lincoln to Kennedy38:40.42 Discussion of Booth not getting help41:08.80 Talk about getting Booth on boat48:59.90.Discussion of putting a door on saw horses as a table50:03.11 Talk about Autopsy in 1800s52:18.34 Discussion of Booth being wrapped in military blanket56:27.97 Conclusion, Lincoln wanted the country to heal  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In part one of this two-part series on Body Bags hosts Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack take listeners through the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln and its aftermath. They describe the chaos at Ford's Theater, the attending physicians' struggles as they assessed Lincoln's condition with limited medical knowledge and tools, the removal of Lincoln's body, and the irony of increased security after the assassination. They also delve into the autopsy process, highlighting the physicians' extensive experience and the challenges they faced.           Time-codes: 00:20 - Start of show. 01:35 - John Wilkes Booth's actions in the theater. 02:00 - Immediate response to the shooting. 02:35 - Lincoln's condition when the surgeon arrived. 03:15 - Initial confusion among the audience. 04:00 - Booth's calculated timing for the shooting. 05:30 - Surgeon realizes Lincoln's gunshot wound location. 05:55 - Limitations of medical knowledge and tools. 07:40 - Lincoln stops breathing and has dilated pupils. 08:10 - Surgeon removes clot, Lincoln breathes again. 09:20 - Difficulty transporting Lincoln to the White House. 09:55 - Physicians try to locate the lead ball in Lincoln's head. 11:30 - Attempt to drain blood and reduce intracranial pressure. 12:00 - Lincoln's death at 7:30 a.m. 13:50 - Lincoln remains unconscious throughout the ordeal. 16:40 - Removal of Lincoln's body from the boarding house. 17:15 - Absence of security and irony of increased security. 18:00 - Lincoln's tendency to dismiss security. 18:40 - Lincoln's body conveyed to White House for autopsy. 19:55 - Handsaw used to open Lincoln's skull. 21:10 - Delicate nature of dissecting the brain. 22:15 - Autopsy challenges: lack of electricity, reliance on touch. 23:00 - Physicians' extensive experience in dealing with trauma. 29:40 - Modern gunshot wound examination process. 30:30 - Role of x-rays in understanding bullet trajectories. 31:15 - Autopsy confirms nothing could have saved Lincoln. 32:55 - Limitations of 1800s medical treatments. 33:30 - John Wilkes Booth's autopsy. 34:50 - Physician's anger and resentment towards Booth. 35:30 - Booth's body relocation before returning to family. 36:05 - Outro.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mary Kay Heese was 17-years-old when she was murdered and dumped in a ditch in March of 1969. Mary Kay Heese did not go down without a fight, she fought back, but died from multiple stab wounds. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack talk about how the case went cold but the family kept working the case. Year after year. Joseph Scott Morgan will explain what it took to solve a case that was cold for more than half a century, and how 55-years after her lifeless body was found in a ditch, an arrest is made in the murder of Mary Kay Heese.       Transcript Highlights 00:00.35 Introduction - 55 year cold case 04:07.70 The Family keeps looking for answers 10:02.66 Parents have passed, but cousin fought for justice 15:01.01 Finding a hair and fiber evidence 20:07.30 Body found near home 25:05.68 Perp dumped body in ditch 30:03.39 Mary Kay Heese fought back 35:29.16 Two suspects, one commits suicide in 1977 40:06.78 A Suspect is found 44:08.09 Arrest is made, more to comeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Luigi Mangione allegedly shot and killed CEO of United Healthcare Brian Thompson on December 4, 2024. The suspect in the shooting is a 26-year-old person of means; smart, educated, and now, possibly a killer. Joseph Scott Morgan breaks down the type of weapon used and how it would function, the ammunition used, as well as the damage it could do to the intended target. Dave Mack tries to fill  in the background of the story as it continues to evolve. This is Part One of Two.             Transcript Highlights 00:00:00.71 Introduction 00:00:57.91 Growing up spoiled 00:05:28.58 Luigi Mangione manifesto 00:08:55.84 Mangione creating characters on computer 00:12:26.42 Chronic pain in lower back  00:17:38.37 Description of using 3D printed gun 00:24:56.27 Scheduling an event, waiting for victim 00:28:37.77 Suspect and weapons 00:33:23.74 Description of "site picture" 00:38:29.89 Shot and effect on body 00:39:01.33 Conclusion of part oneSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shamra Felkel is last seen in Hartselle, South Carolina, on September 25. On October 7, friends and family report her missing.  Shamra Felkel's daughters, Karli Felkel and Kasey Wolfe begin searching right away but say local law enforcement isn't taking the case seriously. 11 weeks after she vanishes into thin air, Kasey Wolfe gets an anonymous tip that leads her to ask a close family friend to search the Ruby Road area near her mother's property. The friend discovers human remains and calls authorities. Deputies respond and rope off the area. Joseph Scott Morgan explains what condition the remains will be in after being buried near a dry well for over two months and what will be learned at autopsy.           Transcript Highlights00:00:13.06 Introduction00:04:55.00 We are creatures of habit00:10:14.37 Graveyard or Cemetery00:14:40.13 Building a well00:19:18.58 Who found the body of Shamra Felkel00:25:00.66 After remains are found....what happens next00:30:13.69 Investigators haven't announced type of strangulation00:35:21.26 Charges of murder, kidnapping, obstruction of justice00:39:05.01 ConclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Shot in the Dark: Investigating Lincoln's Assassination and the Chilling Conspiracy | Part 1In part one of this two-part series on Body Bags we delve into the assassination and autopsy of President Abraham Lincoln. Hosts Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack analyze the character and motivations of John Wilkes Booth, the layout of Ford's Theater, and the negligent behavior of John Parker, assigned to protect the president. They provide a fascinating explanation of the Philadelphia Deringer's firing mechanism, including its unique preloading process and firing sequence as well as going into Booth's meticulous planning, highlighting his knowledge of the play's comedic timing, Lincoln's potential focus on the orchestra pit, and the painstaking preparation involved in using the Deringer. Throughout this captivating episode, listeners uncover the chilling details and lasting impact of one of the most infamous moments in American history.     Time-codes:00:25 - JoScott’s surprise at visiting presidential assassination locations.01:30 - Description of Ford's Theater and the assassination scene.02:20 - Introduction of Lincoln's assassination and autopsy topic.06:10 - Discussion of access to the president during Lincoln's time.07:10 - How did Booth gain access to Lincoln's box at Ford's Theater?08:45 - Lincoln's well-publicized attendance at the theater.10:35 - Comparison of past and present presidential security measures.11:10 - John Parker, the inept officer assigned to protect Lincoln.13:40 - Background on John Wilkes Booth and his Southern cause support.16:00 - Long-lasting impact of Lincoln's assassination on the country.18:15 - Specifics of the weapon used by John Wilkes Booth.21:35 - Importance of caliber and limitations of Booth's weapon.23:40 - Preloading the Philadelphia Deringer and its hammer mechanism.24:55 - Comparison of the Deringer's firing sequence to modern weapons.26:20 - Demonstration of the Deringer's firing sequence and sound.27:10 - Proximity of Booth to Lincoln when he fired the weapon.27:50 - Booth's understanding of the play's comedic timing and assassination planning.29:40 - Discussion of Booth's planning and escape plan.30:30 - Process of loading the Derringer and importance of seating the bullet properly.32:15 - Please join us next time for part two!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Joseph Scott Morgan was on his first date with his wife Kim she asked him what he did for a living. When he responded by telling her that he worked for the Medical Examiner, essentially the coroner, examining dead bodies and performing autopsies, she looked at him with a puzzled expression…We all have aspects of our lives that are unusual, whether it’s our family, our habits, or our jobs. But when we do these things every day, they become so normal to us that we don’t even question them anymore. In this special episode of Body Bags, forensics expert Joseph Scott Morgan and Jackie Howard go into depth on the touchstone of forensic death investigation: autopsies. They discuss what an autopsy is, who can order one, the different kinds, and how Joe ended up in this unique profession.  Show Notes :0:00 - Intro 2:07 - What is an autopsy? 4:10 - Who determines when an autopsy is done? Why would you not do one? 7:40 - Can an autopsy be done even if the family doesn’t want it? 9:58 - Gloria Satterfield’s cause of death 12:45 - Are there different kinds of autopsies? 17:55 - Joe’s experience in the autopsy room 18:56 - What is a full autopsy and how long does it take? 26:50 - Can certain autopsies be prioritized? 30:22 - Is an autopsy considered surgery? 34:05 - How did Joseph Scott end up working in a morgue? 38:50 - Seeing bodies in all different kinds of states 41:40 - How does Joe’s family deal with his line of work? 43:45 - Joe’s take on his career 45:21 - Wrap upSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The body of Melody Hoffman is discovered on a cold February morning. The person who finds her body calls 911 and describes her beautiful skin, she has all kinds of marks on her back, "like slashes" and her hands are curled in a way they shouldn't have been. She has been left in the freezing cold with nothing on but her underwear. Joseph Scott Morgan will explain how it is possible that the 20-year-p; has slashes across her back and has lost a lot of blood, but that isn't what killed her. Dave Mack digs into the different relationships that led to the murder of a 20-year-old woman who just wanted a boyfriend to care about her.           Transcript Highlights 00:01.16  Introduction 04:29.89 Melody Hoffman is missing 09:45.20 Melody might have been pregnant 14:30.41 Buy killing supplies 19:19.24 Picture on phone of Melody beaten, crying, tape over mouth 25:49.51 Murder happened February 18th, very cold 30:46.08 Does weather impact dead body 35:26.44 How much abuse had boyfriend put her through 39:39.14 Melody was strangled to death 47:58.86 Why was body left where it would be found ConclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

17-year-old Esther Gonzalez is walking from her parents house to her sister's house, and she never arrives. The next day her body is found in a snowpack on the side of the road. She has been raped and bludgeoned to death. The man who finds the body, Randy Williamson, talks to police and is described as argumentative. He ends up taking a polygraph and passes. With the only person of interest eliminated, the case goes cold. Joseph Scott Morgan explains what happens to a body over time and how the evidence gathered by detectives in 1979, made it possible to solve a cold case 44-years later. To learn about the incredible work being done by Othram labs take a look at www.othram.com. Othram: A revolution in Cold Case Resolution.   Transcript Highlight 00:01.65 Introduction02:58.10 Geography of California05:00.02 Snow and Surf on the same day09:56.34 No surveillance cameras, easy dumping ground15:01.25 Body of Esther found in snowbank20:00.88 Why was "the finder" arguing with police?25:18.98 Esther Gonzalez was raped and bludgeoned to death30:00.11 The "finder" passes a polygraph test35:44.63 Hairs that co-mingle40:09.99 Detectives never gave up, kept investigating44:59.73 Othram got a match to Randy Williamson.  He was the killer. He died in 2014.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dead bodies and romance.....in Horry County South Carolina, Meagan Jackson is a contractor for the county delivering dead bodies to the morgue of the funeral home. She and her longtime boyfriend Gregory Rice have broken up and they are negotiating custody and support for their four children. Deputy Coroner Christopher Dontell is married to a school teacher and they have two children. The deputy Coroner and the woman bringing dead bodies to the morgue strike up a romance. When Gregory Rice goes missing and turns up dead, suspicion falls on his ex, Meagan and her new boyfriend, the very married Deputy Coroner, Christopher Dontell. Joseph Scott Morgan will explain what happens in the world of death investigation and how people can grow close to their coworkers under extreme circumstances. Joseph Scott Morgan will also take a close look at Meagan Jackson and Chris Dontell - did she think Dontell, because of his occupation, would know better how to get rid of a dead body? Dave Mack will help untangle the web of lies as Joseph Scott Morgan explains why Dontell has changed his plea and what will happen when he testifies against the woman who was carrying his child when her ex-boyfriend is found dead. Transcribe Highlights 00:00.50 Introduction 03:29.84 South Carolina has rich Coroner history 05:12.67 Elected Coroner in Horry County 10:03.41 Explaining "Livery" service 14:52.41 Deputy Coroner having affair with woman who delivers bodies 20:11.42 An affair the includes death and getting rid of body 24:25.02 Special training, would a deputy coroner have a better idea how to get rid of a body 29:57.62 Questions of a death investigator 35:05.65 Digital evidence puts suspect at the scene of where body is found 41:08.05 Conclusion - Deputy Coroner cuts a deal and will testify for the stateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We revisit the Murdaugh trial in which South Carolina lawyer, Alex Murdaugh, is currently facing trial for the murder of his wife Maggie, and his son Paul. As the trial continues, we are learning more information about the nature of the crimes and how exactly they played out.In this episode of Body Bags, forensics expert Joseph Scott Morgan and special guest co-host Dave Mack discuss the specifics of both Paul and Maggie’s injuries, why the prosecution uses diagrams vs. photographs when showing evidence in court, whether Paul had any defensive wounds, and much more. Show Notes: 0:00 - Intro1:18 - Background and overview of the case 2:35 - Using diagrams in court vs. photographs 6:05 - Paul Murdaugh’s injuries 11:15 - The second shot to Paul Murdaugh’s head 14:50 - Paul’s face left intact 19:25 - Were there any type of defensive wounds on Paul? 20:30 - Maggie Murdaugh’s injuries 23:30 - Stippling around Maggie’s wounds 26:00 - Shot to the abdomen 29:00 - Was this overkill? 31:00 - Wrap up and outroSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

November 22, 1963: John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, was shot and killed during a presidential motorcade in Dallas, Texas.The President is taken to Parkland Memorial Hospital. By law, Dallas County Coroner Dr. Earl Rose had jurisdiction over the case and should have performed the autopsy. However, against Dr. Earl Rose's protestations, the body of President Kennedy was wrapped in a sheet, placed in a casket with a broken handle, and flown over 1,300 miles away to Washington DC, where 2 naval doctors, who had never conducted a forensic autopsy performed the autopsy on John F. Kennedy. Join Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack as they take a close look at the autopsy that was so bad, 60years later questions are still being asked. Time Code Highlights00:00:10 Introduction 00:01:21 The ripple effect of the assassination of JFk00:04:31 The moments following the shooting of JFK in Dealey Plaza00:06:02 Talk about how autopsy "Standard Procedures" were not followed 00:06:51 Texas state law and jurisdiction over investigation and autopsy00:07:58 Board Certified Forensic Pathologist Doctor Earl Rose was chief medical examiner for Dallas, Texas at the time and was at Parkland Memorial Hospital00:09:22 JFK body taken from Dallas to Washington DC for autopsy00:10:59 Secret Service preparing for President trips.00:11:36 JFK physical condition after being shot.00:12:52 Injuries to JFK, at least 2 gunshot wounds. 00:13:31 Tracheotomy that was performed to establish an airway00:15:04 Dr. Earl Rose and how his experience was dismissed00:16:23 Dr. Earl Rose KNEW he was looking at a Murder Investigation.00:17:47 Discussion Dallas County had jurisdiction over the body.00:19:03 Talk about autopsy of JFK should have taken place in Dallas00:20:08 Previous Presidential assassination, Lincoln, Garfield, and McKinley and their autopsies.00:22:10 Dr. Earl Rose did the autopsy for Oswald, Officer Tippit, and Jack Ruby.00:23:36 JFK body being taken to Washington DC 00:25:16 Comparing Bethesda Naval Hospital to Walter Reed Hospital 00:26:04 doctors chosen to perform JFK autopsy00:28:42 why doctors turned bullet wound into tracheostomy00:29:55 Presidents body wrapped in sheets. Head wrapped in gauze00:31:09 JFK clothing, tie changed the trajectory of round.00:32:58 Other clothing worn during the assassination00:33:44 "magic bullet" going through JFK and Governor Connally, 00:35:08 Secret Service agents washed interior of Presidential limo. 00:36:03 Talk about crime scenes - bone fragments found and turned in later00:37:02 Description of President's head, skull came apart in doctors hands.00:38:04 Discussion of Assessment00:40:02 Talk about x-rays that were done on body00:41:58 Description of the Bethesda autopsy suite 00:43:51 Ballistics expert Dr. Pierre Fink, forensic pathologist, came to Bethesda 00:44:53 JFK brain was removed before Dr. Fink arrived00:46:05 Description of "Brain Loafing".00:47:22 The autopsy of JFK was not a complete autopsy00:49:21 Discussion of "family wishes" as it applies to the murder of the president.00:50:48 Compare autopsy of John F. Kennedy and Robert F Kennedy00:52:36 Discussion about other pathologists available to do autopsy on JFK00:55:09 No way to know if other injuries suffered by JFK could have been lethal00:56:04 Commentary - no excuse for what happened with autopsy of JFKSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the summer of 1989, a construction crew working in the basement of a building at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta stumbled across thousands of human bones. The acquisition and disposal of the remains has been kept secret. It happens again in 1994, a crew discovered an old well containing human remains while constructing a new medical sciences building on the campus of the Medical College of Virginia (MCV) at Virginia Commonwealth University. The well is called the Limb Pit. It happened one more time at Harvard in 1999. During renovations at Harvard’s Holden Chapel in 1999, a worker operating a mini bulldozer stumbled across human remains when his machine broke through a wall into an old well. Joseph Scott Morgan explains how it's possible to find human bones that have been hacked, cut with a saw, chisel, or knife, and then hidden so the law can't find them.....and it isn't a crime. Transcript Highlight00:00.01 Introduction 04:35.58 Resurrection - Grave Robbing 09:40.88 Studying medicine, finding bones14:08.17 Doctors who have never dissected a body 19:18.35 Bones used by medical schools23:17.45 Medical college paying grave robbers28:16.99 Getting rid of bones without getting caught 32:11.18 Doctors had no opportunity to study the human body38:59.35 The Limb Pit - Chris Baker MCV40:17.79 Harvard had name for club that dug up bodies44:00.58 Mass burial of bones, no names 47:27.15 ConclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Piketon Massacre happened when 8 members of the Rhoden family were wiped out in one night at four different locations. Billy Wagner, the patriarch of the Wagner family, and the accused leader of the murderous rampage, is finally going to trial next month. With 8 murders and four crime scenes, Joseph Scott Morgan has a lot to explain. He will take you inside the trailers and talk about how forensic evidence was damaged by law enforcement. As in all cases a person is innocent until proven guilty and Billy Wagner continues to plead not guilty to all 22 charges including eight counts of aggravated murder from the execution-style slayings of his son’s ex-girlfriend and seven of her family members in April 2016. Transcript Highlights 00:02.98 Introduction 02:12.91 The Piketon Massacre 05:32.43 Who Could have pulled off killing 8 people in one night 10:04.49 Killer lays baby next to dead mothers' breast so he wouldn't go hungry 15:02.77 Billy Wagner trial coming up next year 19:53.21 Wagner's in Alaska,, woman escapes in fear 25:02.16 Baby Sophia was not in trailer, she was with grandmother 30:08.95 Billy Wagner had moved away from family 35:09.77 So many oddities in the Piketon Massacre 40:13.85 How will Billy Wagner be defended 42:33:26.ConclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joseph Scott Morgan has covered the Missing Kansas Moms story on Body Bags since it began. He continued that coverage with the autopsy report of Jillian Kelley a few weeks ago, and now Joseph Scott Morgan breaks down the 16-page autopsy report of Veronica Butler that begins with the Circumstances of death, then moves into the Assault with a knife, including THIRTY (30) Sharp Force Injuries, defensive wounds, and much more. Transcript Highlights 00:04.93 Introduction 02:19.20 Life of Veronica Butler ending at age 27 04:27.17 Recovery from addiction issues 09:09.39 Requests to review autopsy reports 14:27.64 Defining "full thickness" 21:53.93 6 defensive injuries on Veronica's right hand 27:58.81 Autopsy report as a life road map 33:31.71 Appears someone was trying to cut her throat 38:09.54 Hemorrhages communicating, happened while alive 41:51.46 Why is Obesity mentioned in report 45:05.53 ConclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One year ago, Joseph Scott Morgan explained the death of Reeva Steenkamp at the hands of the "Bladerunner", Oscar Pistorius. One month after the episode dropped, Oscar Pistorius was released from prison on parole in January of 2024. We thought it would be a good time to review the case and see what Pistorius has been doing since his release from prison. Based on his conditions of parole, Pistorius is not allowed to do interviews, but his lawyer, Julian Knight, told People he spent the first four months out of prison getting settled into a quiet life in Pretoria where he is living with his Uncle, Arnold Pistorius. The home is a 24-room Mansion, a fortified compound located with armed guards, electronic defenses, and attack dogs.Although he is not required to wear an electronic monitor, a parole officer checks on him at random hours of the day or night. He is not allowed to drink alcohol or do drugs. He cannot be on social media and is forbidden from contacting the Steenkamp family. A Tabloid headline about Pistorius screamed: From Olympics to Prison to Janitor - and that is somewhat accurate as he is doing some janitorial work. According to his parole paperwork, Pistorius has listed his volunteer work at NG Kerk Waterkloof, the Dutch Reformed Church attended by his uncle. He does light maintenance and janitorial work and quietly attends services. Parishioners told The New York Post that he is serious and doesn’t interact with others. Transcript Highlights 00:00.96 Introduction 01:00.02 Update on Pistorius out of prison 06:17.82 Explaining the tibia 12:04.25 Pistorius and Steenkamp dated 90 days 19:17.30 Shooting through a door 24:41.68 Shot through hip - loud scream 28:18.94 Pistorius one of the most famous people in the world 32:39.17 Steenkamp bled to death 34:04.17 Pistorius Update See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.