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Hosted by Courtney Liso, The Book of the Dead is a true crime podcast that focuses on the victims of lesser-known crimes. Each episode presents a deep dive into a...
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Hosted by Courtney Liso, The Book of the Dead is a true crime podcast that focuses on the victims of lesser-known crimes. Each episode presents a deep dive into a case from around the world, dissecting the details to tell the whole story of who each victim was, in addition to what happened to them. Formerly hosted by a mother-daughter team, the podcast has evolved with one host, taking the care necessary to ensure each victim is honored as they should be. Join Courtney every Wednesday at 12am EST for a new chapter in The Book of the Dead.
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14 JAN 2026 · 18 years before Sherri Papini shocked the world with her kidnapping hoax, another girl vanished from Redding, California, but she never came home. When 16-year-old Tera Lynn Smith disappeared on a quiet night in August 1998, her family was desperate to find her, but they received far more questions than answers. As I revisit her story, I uncover a lesser-known connection to the Sherri Papini case that complicates an already heartbreaking mystery, and walk you through why one man had every reason to want Tera to never be found.
If you or anyone you know has any information, you can contact the Shasta County Sheriff’s office Major Crimes unit at 530-245-6025.
You can also email them at sheriff@co.shasta.ca.us, and the case number to reference is 98-25673.
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You can find us at:
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X: https://twitter.com/Bkofthedeadpod
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Or visit our website at http://botdpod.com/
2202DFCA - Tera Lynn Smith. (2007, March 9). The Doe Network. https://www.doenetwork.org/cases/software/mp-main.html?id=2202dfcaAdmin. (2024, February 17). The Disappearance of Tera Smith - Disappeared. Disappeared. https://disappearedblog.com/tera-smith/#:~:text=Case%20Information,What%20is%20this?Breitler, A. (1999, August 15). Tera Smith’s family still seeks answers. Record Searchlight, A1–A4.Brown, C. L. (1998, October 2). Investigators defend tactics in Tera’s case. Record Searchlight, A1–A8.Cold Case Spotlight: Tera Smith. (2022, April 17). [Video]. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline/family-pushing-justice-1998-disappearance-daughter-tera-smith-redding-california-n1294488Conklin, A., & Conklin, A. (2024a, July 16). Famed California kidnapping hoaxer Sherri Papini breathes new life into schoolmate’s 1998 disappearance. Fox News. https://www.foxnews.com/us/famed-california-kidnapping-hoaxer-sherri-papini-breathes-new-life-schoolmates-1998-disappearanceConklin, A., & Conklin, A. (2024b, July 16). Famed California kidnapping hoaxer Sherri Papini breathes new life into schoolmate’s 1998 disappearance. Fox News. https://www.foxnews.com/us/famed-california-kidnapping-hoaxer-sherri-papini-breathes-new-life-schoolmates-1998-disappearanceHart, A. (1998, September 12). Detectives again search Zink home and studio. Record Searchlight, B1–B2.Inside the haunting Tera Smith cold case that shadowed Sherri Papini’s kidnapping hoax. (2024, June 29). E! Online. https://www.eonline.com/news/1404342/inside-the-haunting-tera-smith-cold-case-that-shadowed-sherri-papinis-kidnapping-hoaxKindelan, K. (2025, June 20). Sherri Papini claims ex-boyfriend abducted her in 2016 hoax kidnapping case. ABC News. https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/News/sherri-papini-claims-boyfriend-abducted-2016-hoax-kidnapping/story?id=122988913King, T. (1998, November 8). Girl’s disappearance strains detectives. Record Searchlight, A-10.Lyon, R. (2023, October 2). The Mysterious Case of Homecoming Queen Tera Lynn Smith and Her Martial Arts Instructor. Medium. https://medium.com/@unquestionablycriminal/the-mysterious-case-of-homecoming-queen-tera-lynn-smith-and-her-martial-arts-instructor-df98810983a6MISSING - Tera Lynn Smith | Solve the Case. (n.d.). Solve the Case. https://www.solvethecase.org/case/1998-5/Tera-SmithPallas, G. (2023, March 24). Tera Smith: Strange case of a Lost Teen Girl. George Pallas. https://georgepallas.com/blog/2022/04/tera-smith/Papini possibly lying opens up old wounds for Tera Smith’s family. (2022, March 18). KRCR. https://krcrtv.com/news/local/papini-possibly-lying-opens-up-old-wounds-for-tera-smiths-familySchultz, J. (2022, April 19). 20-plus years without Tera Smith: Questions remain about Redding teen who vanished in 1998. Record Searchlight. https://www.redding.com/story/news/2022/04/18/tera-smith-redding-ca-questions-remain-teen-missing-homecoming-queen-vanished-2008-dateline-show/7362784001/Still seeking justice 25 years later the unsolved disappearance of Tera Smith from Redding. (2023, August 23). KRCR. https://krcrtv.com/news/local/tera-smith-disappearance-25-years-laterTera Lynn Smith – The Charley Project. (n.d.). https://charleyproject.org/case/tera-lynn-smithThe Associated Press. (1999, August 16). Redding girl, 16, vanished without a trace a year ago. Enterprise Record, 4.Vulpo, M. (2022, April 18). Sherri Papini formally pleads guilty after admitting kidnapping was a hoax. E! Online. https://www.eonline.com/news/1327711/sherri-papini-formally-pleads-guilty-after-admitting-kidnapping-was-a-hoax If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know!
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com with Case Suggestion in the subject line.
Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.
Transcribed
7 JAN 2026 · What happens when the danger isn’t on the job, but waiting at home? Robbie Doerr was a veteran firefighter who never imagined the greatest threat would come from someone he trusted.
When Evansville, Indiana, is rocked by the murder of a beloved member of their community, the police have very few clues to go on to find the killer. With no murder weapon, witnesses who saw nothing, and no known enemies to look into, the case should have hit a wall. However, the clue they needed to propel the case forward was in the form of one deleted phone call that the killer never thought would see the light of day.
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thebookofthedeadpod
Or visit our website at http://botdpod.com/
Featuring a promo for True Crime Connections Podcast:
True Crime Connections is a survivor-led podcast where stories of abuse, trauma, and resilience are shared with raw honesty and purpose. We exist to break cycles of silence and shame by giving survivors the microphone—and turning lived experiences into sparks of hope and healing because your voice matters.
Listenhttps://open.spotify.com/show/1zUHfUFv7YZIAN6hceW0SQ?si=15ee24d8232b44c8
ABC News. (n.d.). Indiana woman on learning investigators believed sister cheated with her fiancé [Video]. ABC News. https://abcnews.go.com/2020/video/indiana-woman-learning-investigators-believed-sister-cheated-fianc-115617679Chute, N. (2019, March 18). What we know about the fatal shooting of an Evansville firefighter. Courier & Press. https://www.courierpress.com/story/news/2019/02/27/evansville-firefighter-death-what-we-know-indiana-shooting/3003459002/Court of Appeals of Indiana. (2025). Elizabeth Joanne Fox-Doerr V. State of Indiana. In Justia U.S. Law (No. 24A-CR-1673). Indiana Supreme Court of Appeals. https://law.justia.com/cases/indiana/court-of-appeals/2025/24a-cr-01673.htmlCrime Desk. (2025, February 18). Betrayal in Flames: The Murder of Firefighter Robbie Doerr. Medium. https://medium.com/@crimedesk/betrayal-in-flames-the-murder-of-firefighter-robbie-doerr-d82efb1494fcCup of Coffee & Crime. (2025, August 25). A Mistress, A Murderer, and Robbie Doerr: A Fallen Hero. Medium. https://medium.com/@coffeecrimeandcosmetics/a-mistress-a-murderer-and-robbie-doerr-a-fallen-hero-f4d342bc5c49Doyle, A., & Fater, T. (2019, February 28). “Another Dark Day”: Comrades react to firefighter’s fatal shooting. Evansville Courier and Press, A1–A5.Endale, B. (2020, February 27). Person of interest named in firefighter shooting. Evansville Courier and Press, A1–A6.Fater, T. (2019a, February 28). Police seeking anyone who has information. Evansville Courier and Press, A1–A5.Fater, T. (2019b, March 20). Things we learned from the 911 calls. Evansville Courier and Press, A3.Harris, D. (2024, June 18). Firefighter’s wife learns her fate for telling boyfriend to murder husband for benefits. Law & Crime. https://lawandcrime.com/crime/i-will-never-be-able-to-forgive-her-firefighters-wife-learns-her-fate-for-telling-boyfriend-to-murder-husband-so-she-could-receive-benefits/Jury reaches verdict in sentencing recommendation for man found guilty of murder of EFD firefighter. (2025, December 18). WEVV 44News. https://www.wevv.com/news/crime/jury-reaches-verdict-in-sentencing-recommendation-for-man-found-guilty-of-murder-of-efd-firefighter/article_2839444a-65b1-4254-94d0-e204786a2006.htmlLempert, C. (2024, November 8). Deleted cellphone data helps reveal murder of Indiana fireman. ABC News. https://abcnews.go.com/US/deleted-cellphone-data-helps-reveal-murder-indiana-fireman/story?id=115516049Lyman, J., & Carter, M. (2022, August 18). Wife and convicted murderer both charged in death of Evansville firefighter. https://www.14news.com. https://www.14news.com/2022/08/18/wife-convicted-murderer-both-charged-death-evansville-firefighter/Neumann, S. (2025, May 27). Cheating wife wanted her husband dead — and her lover was a convicted killer. A court just ruled on her fate. People.com. https://people.com/cheating-wife-wanted-her-husband-dead-lover-convicted-killer-11742178Obituary for Robert F. Doerr II. (n.d.). Pierre Funeral Home. https://www.pierrefuneralhome.com/obituaries/Robert-Doerr-3/#!/ObituaryShrestha, N. (2024, November 8). Robert “Robbie” Doerr: How did he die? Who killed him? The Cinemaholic. https://thecinemaholic.com/robert-robbie-doerr/Taurus Judge. (n.d.). Palmetto State Armory. https://palmettostatearmory.com/brands/taurus/taurus-revolvers/judge.html#:~:text=What%20Ammunition%20Can%20It%20Use,quality%2C%20factory%2Dloaded%20rounds.Webb, J. (2019, August 26). Here are unsolved city homicides from the past two years. Evansville Courier and Press, 2A.Wife of slain Indiana firefighter charged in his murder along with convicted murderer. (2022, August 19). [Video]. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/wife-killed-firefighter-convicted-murderer-boyfriend-charged-death-rcna43894Young, I. (2025, December 16). Trial begins for Larry Richmond Sr. in 2019 firefighter’s murder. Yahoo News. https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/trial-begins-larry-richmond-sr-013004741.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAMGsynsLF6qn_E5vrslsyAudhQ3GLpzv0e4tn33P9Pmsi1jcxw1XuaFijthiQ0iQXI98W-qKr05GLa9e_RhTL67to8BVYgwpRXRI_XJUN90z1c9Q-VeVFnnv1iL-Jd_UggKYdDqlwydd-hhUmdkJCxS9hEBW9bXtTbFUXMI-9Rcl If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know!
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com with Case Suggestion in the subject line.
Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.
Transcribed
17 DEC 2025 · A quiet afternoon. A parking garage. A crime that would haunt a community for decades.
The murder of Joyce Paneck-Saglimbene in 1976 shocked Englewood, New Jersey, but with little evidence and no suspects, her case faded into obscurity for three decades. As hope for justice waned, a sudden arrest brought her case back into the spotlight, but was the killer really found?
If you have any information about Joyce's murder, you can contact the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office https://tel
Connect with us on Social Media!
You can find us at:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookofthedeadpod/
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Or visit our website at http://botdpod.com/
Featuring a promo for Family Plot Podcast:
a podcast featuring Dean Boese, Laura Williams and their 15 year old son Arthur where they do PG-13 takes on all things odd
https://open.spotify.com/show/27GZQqpH3vlgs0yKxztx3O?si=302d81c8735445d2
Alaya, A. M. (2006, August 24). DNA results could sway case in secretary’s 1976 killing. The Star Ledger, A17–A21.Arias, L. (2006, August 30).
Arrest made in 1976 murder case. Northern Valley Suburbanite, 6.
Bronx man arrested in 30-year-old murder. (2006, August 23). The Daily Journal, A5.Content, C. (2019, January 11).
Cold case: criminal activity assured. New York Daily News. https://www.nydailynews.com/2009/08/29/cold-case-criminal-activity-assured/Dillon, N. (2018, April 9). HE's GOT TO PAY FOR 76' SLAY, EX-HUBBY SAYS. New York Daily News. https://www.nydailynews.com/2006/08/24/hes-got-to-pay-for-76-slay-ex-hubby-says/Dillon, N., Bode, N., & Kadushin, P. (2018, April 9). HIS KILLER PAST.BELOVED, HARDWORKING BX. DAD IS CHARGED WITH STABBING WOMAN 19 TIMES IN 1976 JERSEY SLAYING. New York Daily News. https://www.nydailynews.com/2006/08/23/his-killer-past-beloved-hardworking-bx-dad-is-charged-with-stabbing-woman-19-times-in-1976-jersey-slaying/Feuer, A. (2006, August 23). Arrest in a 30-Year-Old Murder Case Reignites the Pain of a Victim’s Family. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2006/08/23/nyregion/23cold.htmlMarkos, K. (2008, September 19). Man pleads guilty in 1976 slaying. The Record, L1.Meuller, M., & Peet, J. (2006, August 23). To her brother, victim will always be 27, smiling and beautiful. The Star Ledger, 5.Mongelli, L. (2006, August 23). SLAY BUST ENDS 30-YEAR WEIGHT - “PEACE” AT LAST FOR ’76 VICTIM’S BROTHER. New York Post. https://nypost.com/2006/08/23/slay-bust-ends-30-year-weight-peace-at-last-for-76-victims-brother/The Record Staff. (1976, May 16). Police seek firm clues in murder. The Sunday Record, A24. If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know!
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com with Case Suggestion in the subject line.
Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.
Transcribed
10 DEC 2025 · In January 2018, Reno native, 19-year-old Caitlin Denison arrived in Midland, Texas, with a man she barely knew, then vanished without a trace. Before she disappeared, she made chilling calls to her family, hinting that she feared for her life. From Caitlin’s final known movements, theories of why she went to Texas in the first place, and the desperate search to bring her home, this is the baffling story of a young woman who was never seen again.
If you have information that can help bring Caitlin home, you can:
- https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/investigations/texas-dps-missing-womans-case-caitlin-denison-midland/%7C940b797e1f0c48c7ce1108dd3b36be16%7Cccd8a79b7268413b878971f8b6f4c0df%7C1%7C0%7C638731828511903670%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ==%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ajnRcgOkpVZ6JB7kMAvBNV%2FzKJf0d%2FRksOjVsnLtc4A=&reserved=0 through the Texas Rangers' Cold Case website.
- Contact the Texas Rangers by telephone at 1-800-346-3243. Your information will be forwarded to the Texas Ranger assigned to this case.
- Call Crime Stoppers - Texas Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $3,000 to any person who provides information that leads to the arrest of the person/persons responsible for this crime. Call the Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-252-TIPS (8477). All tips are anonymous.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-find-caitlin-denison
https://www.facebook.com/findcaitlindenison
Connect with us on Social Media!
You can find us at:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookofthedeadpod/
X: https://twitter.com/Bkofthedeadpod
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550490186243
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thebookofthedeadpod
Or visit our website at http://botdpod.com/
Featuring a promo for Mountain Murders;
East coast murders covered by Appalachian folks, Heather & Dylan. Who knew mountains could be so deadly? Are you ready to embark on a perilous journey through the treacherous peaks of true crime?
https://open.spotify.com/show/40g9BcUDirt3cqirkSvLgd?si=fc009d6079684ce8
Alert, F. (2018, June 13). Family fears for missing Reno woman’s safety. https://www.firstalert7.com. https://www.firstalert7.com/content/news/Authorities-searching-for-woman-last-seen-in-Midland-485398621.htmlCaitlin Marie Denison – The Charley Project. (n.d.). https://charleyproject.org/case/caitlin-marie-denisonCorrea, A. (2025a, January 23). Texas DPS continues search for missing woman last seen in Midland. newswest9.com. https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/investigations/texas-dps-missing-womans-case-caitlin-denison-midland/513-c5615507-cba8-4dd4-a20b-d6aafd636032Correa, A. (2025b, January 23). Texas DPS continues search for missing woman last seen in Midland. newswest9.com. https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/investigations/texas-dps-missing-womans-case-caitlin-denison-midland/513-c5615507-cba8-4dd4-a20b-d6aafd636032Details - Unsolved homicide. (n.d.). https://www.dps.texas.gov/apps/coldCase/Home/Details/278Dupnick, T. (2024, October 15). Renewed interest sparked in 2018 missing person’s case. newswest9.com. https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/crime/renewed-interest-sparked-in-2018-missing-persons-case/513-e3fd53ab-ba99-4cef-8b85-fb14e359c9efGross, S. (2018, August 31). Reno woman has been missing in Texas for months. Reno Gazette Journal, 3A.Jonathan Polasek (News West9). (2022, May 20). New detective investigating Caitlin Denison case. newswest9.com. https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/new-detective-caitlin-denison-case/513-b9ee386e-ce69-4708-a107-34cd544af40bMidland Fast Facts | Midland, TX - Official website. (n.d.). https://www.midlandtexas.gov/1120/Midland-Fast-FactsMiller, E. (n.d.). UPDATE: Family confirms Midland Co search related to Caitlin Denison disappearance. Your Basin. Retrieved January 22, 2025, from https://www.yourbasin.com/news/texas-rangers-conducting-investigation-in-midland-county/Penrose, K., & Penrose, K. (2024, April 3). 10 years after Brianna Denison’s murder shook northern Nevada, her cousin has gone missing. Carson Now. https://www.carsonnow.org/08/13/2018/ten-years-after-briana-denisons-murder-her-cousin-went-missing-same-ageRichter, B. K. (2024, November 24). Texas Rangers renew search for Caitlin Denison, missing since 2018. MRT. https://www.mrt.com/news/crime/article/caitlin-denison-disappearance-texas-19881001.php If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know!
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com with Case Suggestion in the subject line.
Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.
Transcribed
3 DEC 2025 · When 19-year-old Brianna Denison vanished from her friend's home in the early hours of January 20, 2008, the city of Reno, Nevada was on high alert, rallying to help find her and bring her home. As police worked with minimal evidence to find Brianna's abductor, they followed the DNA trail to the University of Nevada, Reno Campus, uncovering a predator who had been targeting students for months.
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Or visit our website at http://botdpod.com/
ABC News. (2008a, January 22). FBI joins search for “Abducted” teen. https://abcnews.go.com/US/Story?id=4172264&page=2ABC News. (2008b, February 19). Body found in Reno is missing student. https://abcnews.go.com/TheLaw/story?id=4301456&page=1Being Brianna’s Brother. (2018, January 28). Reno Gazette Journal, 7A.Bellisle, M. (2009, January 9). Four aggravating conditions cited for capital punishment. Reno Gazette Journal, 1A-7A.Bellisle, M., & Mullen, F. X., Jr. (2008, November 27). Biela had trouble with women, law. RGJ. https://ceadstorage.blob.core.windows.net/cead-images/NewsReportreBiela.pdfBiela gets life prison on top of death row. (2010, July 31). Nevada Appeal. https://www.nevadaappeal.com/news/2010/jul/31/biela-gets-life-prison-on-top-of-death-row/Biela v. State, 381 P.3d 594 | Nev., Judgment, Law, casemine.com. (n.d.). https://www.casemine.com. https://www.casemine.com/judgement/us/5975bc9eadd7b04349680535Crime Desk. (2025, July 11). Stolen in the Night: The Brianna Denison murder that changed Nevada forever. Medium. https://medium.com/@crimedesk/stolen-in-the-night-the-brianna-denison-murder-that-changed-nevada-forever-96c89c54a49bFort Bragg Advocate-News. (2018, August 23). Brianna Denison: Former Mendocino youth missing. Fort Bragg Advocate-News. https://www.advocate-news.com/2008/01/24/brianna-denison-former-mendocino-youth-missing/IrishExaminer.com. (2020, May 19). US serial rapist sentenced to death. Irish Examiner. https://www.irishexaminer.com/world/arid-30460203.htmlJames Biela petitions court for retrial in rape, murder of 19-year-old Brianna Denison. (2016, July 12). KRXI. https://foxreno.com/news/local/james-biela-returns-to-court-for-rape-and-murder-of-19-year-old-reno-womanJournal, M. B. R. G. (2018, January 26). From May 2010: Testimony details discovery of body, Brianna Denison death. Reno Gazette Journal. https://www.rgj.com/story/news/crime/2018/01/26/may-2010-testimony-details-discovery-body-brianna-denison-death/1067359001/Jul 28, 2008, page 4 - Reno Gazette-Journal at Newspapers.comTM. (n.d.). Newspapers.com. https://www.newspapers.com/image/149445981/?match=1&terms=brianna%20denisonKing, G. C. (n.d.). The murder of Brianna Denison — snatched in the Dead of Night — Crime Library. https://www.crimelibrary.org/notorious_murders/classics/brianna_denison/1.htmlKrikorian, T. (2008, March 29). Family invites communty to mark Denison birthday. Reno Gazette Journal, 1A-8A.McCandrew, S. (2008, November 28). Blue ribbons selling out at local stores. Reno Gazette Journal, 3A.Miller, C. (2010, June 3). BRIaNna Denison’s killer, James Biela, gets death; mom says “He messed with the wrong family.” CBS News. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/brianna-denisons-killer-james-biela-gets-death-mom-says-he-messed-with-the-wrong-family/Nov 27, 2008, page 5 - Reno Gazette-Journal at Newspapers.comTM. (n.d.). Newspapers.com. https://www.newspapers.com/image/149622758/?match=1&terms=brianna%20denisonO’Malley, J. (2008a, February 22). Police: Suspect not a serial killer, yet. Reno Gazette Journal, 3A.O’Malley, J. (2008b, November 26). Police: DNA links Denison murder suspect to crimes. RGJ. https://archive.ph/20130201071613/http://www.rgj.com/article/20081126/NEWS18/81126016O’Malley, J. (2008c, November 28). Family calls tipster “incredibly brave.” Reno Gazette Journal, 4A.O’Malley, J. (2008d, November 28). Family to fight for tougher laws. Reno Gazette Journal, 3A.Oram, C. (2019a). Order of affirmance. In SUPREME COURT OF NEVADA. https://www.supremecourt.gov/DocketPDF/19/19-6204/117740/20191002123643407_Appendix%20Exhibits.pdfOram, C. (2019b). Petition for Writ of Certiorari - James Biela v. The State of Nevada. In Supreme Court of the United States. https://www.supremecourt.gov/DocketPDF/19/19-6204/117740/20191002123312032_Cert%20Petition.pdfORAM, C. R., NOBLE, J. P., & Washoe County District Attorney. (2019). RESPONDENT’S BRIEF IN OPPOSITION. In SUPREME COURT OF THE UNITED STATES [Legal brief]. https://www.supremecourt.gov/DocketPDF/19/19-6204/121720/20191107121019017_BIELA_BRIEF%20IN%20OPP_PET%20CERTIORARI.pdfProducer, B. R. M. N. G. (n.d.). Tip line played key role in cracking cold case - CNN.com. https://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/12/02/cold.case.arrest/index.htmlReports, W. (2008, February 23). Former Mendocino resident remembered at candlelight vigil. The Press Democrat. https://www.pressdemocrat.com/2008/02/23/former-mendocino-resident-remembered-at-candlelight-vigil/Search - Supreme Court of the United States. (n.d.). https://www.supremecourt.gov/search.aspx?filename=/docket/docketfiles/html/public/19-6204.htmlStaff. (2017, March 1). Suspect in Denison slaying fit the profile. Las Vegas Review-Journal. https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/suspect-in-denison-slaying-fit-the-profile/The Reno Gazette Journal & Lyon County News Leader. (2008, February 21). Brianna Denison Obituary. Legacy. https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/rgj/name/brianna-denison-obituary?id=27318198 If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know!
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com with Case Suggestion in the subject line.
Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.
Transcribed
26 NOV 2025 · Leighandre “Baby Lee” Jegels was a rising star in South African boxing; an undefeated fighter, a national karate champion, and a young woman whose strength inspired thousands. But behind the scenes, she was fighting a far more dangerous opponent. In a case that ignited widespread anger and renewed attention to South Africa’s epidemic of gender-based violence, Leighandre's promising career was cut short by the man who was supposed to love and protect her, and she was failed by the very system designed to keep her safe.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or gender based violence, you can contact:
In South Africa:
The Gender Based Violence Command Center hotline
- 0800 428 428 (Call Line)
- 31531 (Text Line)
- or visit their website at https://gbv.org.za
The Stop Gender Violence Help Line
- 0800 150 150
- or visit their website at https://lifelinesa.co.za
In America:
- https://www.thehotline.org/
call: 800-799-7233
Text SAFE to 88788
In the UK
- https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk
- or call 0808 2000 247
Connect with us on Social Media!
You can find us at:
Instagram: @bookofthedeadpod
X: @bkofthedeadpod
Facebook: The Book of the Dead Podcast
TikTok: Bookofthedeadpod
Or visit our website at http://botdpod.com/
Featuring a promo for True Crime California:
True Crime California is a podcast about crimes that take place in, you guessed it - the great Golden State of California. Brought to you by Cindy, these stories will cover everything from well known crimes we've all heard about, to more obscure stories that need to be told.
https://open.spotify.com/show/1B3plQvpBHBLk3QAM1dlCp?si=929bd413f41447b0
BBC News. (2019, August 31). South Africa policeman arrested over boxing champion’s murder. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-49537070Bcmda, & Bcmda. (2023, November 30). The Leighandre “Babe Lee” Jegels Recreational Park - Buffalo City Metropolitan Development Agency. Buffalo City Metropolitan Development Agency -. https://bcmda.org.za/the-leighandre-babe-lee-jegels-recreational-park/Chaput, M. (2019, September 12). Tears flow freely for champ ‘Baby Lee.’ The Herald. https://www.theherald.co.za/news/2019-09-12-tears-flow-freely-for-champ-baby-lee/Confronting South Africa’s crisis of Gender-Based violence. (2024, November 25). Human Rights Watch. https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/11/25/confronting-south-africas-crisis-gender-based-violenceCrime Desk. (2023, December 10). The Life and Tragic Murder of a Rising Boxing Star Killed in the Middle of Rush Hour Traffic. Medium. https://medium.com/@crimedesk/the-life-and-tragic-murder-of-a-rising-boxing-star-killed-in-the-middle-of-rush-hour-traffic-c2cf023a2ef6Fuzile, M. D. M. Z. a. B. (2019, August 31). EC world champion fighter shot dead. Daily Dispatch. https://www.dailydispatch.co.za/news/2019-08-31-e-cape-champion-boxer-shot-dead/#google_vignetteHauser, T. (2025, October 26). Women in boxing. Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/sports/boxing/Women-in-boxingInfluential moments in women’s boxing history. (n.d.). BOXRAW. https://boxraw.com/blogs/blog/influential-moments-in-womens-boxing-history?srsltid=AfmBOorbfAsDGqc1Tyu0Kajqdp_bDPo_wMaVrEG-G3J3tjLoDbFMA7qaJacob, B. (2019, September 1). ‘Baby Lee’ killing: witness tells all. Daily Dispatch. https://www.dailydispatch.co.za/news/2019-09-01-baby-lee-killing-witness-tells-all/Magasela, B. (2020, August 28). Jegels family struggles to accept EL boxer’s death a year on. Daily Dispatch. https://www.dailydispatch.co.za/news/2020-08-28-jegels-family-struggles-to-accept-el-boxers-death-a-year-on/Magasela, B., & Ndamase, M. (2019, September 3). Boxer Leighandre Jegels’s killer dies after car crash. Sowetan. https://www.sowetan.co.za/news/south-africa/2019-09-03-boxer-leighandre-jegelss-killer-dies-after-car-crash/Maphanga, C. (2019, September 15). “She will always be in our memories and our hearts” - SA boxing champ Leighandre “Baby Lee” Jegels laid to rest. News24. https://www.news24.com/she-will-always-be-in-our-memories-and-our-hearts-sa-boxing-champ-leighandre-baby-lee-jegels-laid-to-rest-20190915Mhlathi, Y. (2019, September 13). Leighandre’s parents speak out on daughters murder - SABC News - Breaking news, special reports, world,. SABC News - Breaking news, special reports, world, business, sport coverage of all South African current events. Africa\’s news leader. https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/leighandres-parents-speak-out-on-daughters-murder/Mokhine, P. (2016, June 30). Baby Lee eyes world glory. News24. https://www.news24.com/citypress/sport/baby-lee-eyes-world-glory-20160625Moreis, S. (2019, September 2). Man who shot and killed boxing champion Leighandre Jegels dies in hospital. News24. https://www.news24.com/southafrica/news/breaking-man-who-shot-and-killed-boxing-champion-leighandre-jegels-dies-in-hospital-20190902New report highlights the stark reality of gender-based violence in South Africa. (2024, December 10). Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation. https://www.dsti.gov.za/index.php/media-room/latest-news/4495-new-report-highlights-the-stark-reality-of-gender-based-violence-in-south-africaNgcobo, K. (2025, November 21). South Africa declares gender violence a national disaster after protests. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn979g302l9oRichardson, J. (2019, August 31). Policeman arrested for the murder of SA Boxing champion. The South African. https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/policeman-arrested-for-the-murder-of-sa-boxing-champion/The Associated Press. (2019, September 6). South Africa vows to fight violence against women after attacks. Richmond Times Dispatch, B2.Van Der Berg, C. (2019). “Baby Lee”: Such a sad, tragic, violent loss. IOL. https://iol.co.za/sport/opinion/2019-09-08-baby-lee-such-a-sad-tragic-violent-loss/ If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know!
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com with Case Suggestion in the subject line.
Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.
Transcribed
19 NOV 2025 · When renovation crews began digging beneath a small ice cream shop in Vienna, they didn’t expect to uncover a gruesome secret. What they found unraveled the double life of Estibaliz Carranza, a woman who hid two murders for years. Dubbed The Ice Lady of Austria, Establiz's crimes spun the media into a frenzy, especially when she was represented by the very same man who defended another of Austria's most notorious criminals.
Connect with us on Social Media!
You can find us at:
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X: https://twitter.com/Bkofthedeadpod
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550490186243
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thebookofthedeadpod
Or visit our website at http://botdpod.com/
Adams, S. (2017, January 16). Infamous baby-obsessed “ice cream parlour murderer” is so dangerous she’ll be jailed with men not women. Daily Mirror. https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/infamous-baby-obsessed-ice-cream-9631172Arts - ISKCON - the Hare Krishna Movement. (n.d.). ISKCON - the Hare Krishna Movement. https://www.iskcon.org/about-us/what-is-iskcon.phpBBC News. (2012, November 22). “Ice cream” murder woman gets life sentence in Austria. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-20453491Bell, B. (2014, November 16). “Ice cream” killer Carranza publishing memoirs. BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-30056611Charter, D. (2014, November 17). One last scoop from ice cream parlour murders. The Times. https://www.thetimes.com/travel/inspiration/ski-holiday/one-last-scoop-from-ice-cream-parlour-murders-6p8s00c2j33Del Cabo/El Correo, A. (2012, November 22). La descuartizadora Estíbaliz Carranza era «amable y sumisa» con sus examantes. Diario ABC. https://www.abc.es/internacional/abci-descuartizadora-amable-sumisa-examantes-201211210000_noticia.html?ref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.abc.es%2Finternacional%2Fabci-descuartizadora-amable-sumisa-examantes-201211210000_noticia.htmlEspaña, L. N. (2011, June 13). La descuartizadora mataba por ira y dinero. La Nueva España. https://www.lne.es/sucesos/2011/06/13/descuartizadora-mataba-ira-dinero-21083577.htmlGhosh, S. (2017, January 18). Who is Estibaliz Carranza? Infamous “Ice Cream killer” being moved to All-Male prison in Austria. International Business Times. https://www.ibtimes.com/who-estibaliz-carranza-infamous-ice-cream-killer-being-moved-all-male-prison-austria-2476821“Ice lady” killer buried husband, lover in Vienna cellar. (2012, November 20). NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/ice-lady-killer-buried-husband-lover-vienna-cellar-flna1c7172322Jh. (2019, March 6). Scary True Stories: The ice-cream lady - J.H. Moncrieff. J.H. Moncrieff. https://www.jhmoncrieff.com/scary-true-stories-the-ice-cream-lady/Kazim, H. (2018, September 8). “Am I still beautiful?” DER SPIEGEL, Hamburg, Germany. https://www.spiegel.de/panorama/justiz/doppelmoerderin-estibaliz-carranza-buch-zelle-14-ueber-die-eislady-a-1226978.htmlKurier.At. (2014, November 14). Die Memoiren der Eislady. Kurier. https://kurier.at/chronik/wien/meine-zwei-leben-die-memoiren-der-eislady/97.062.087#google_vignettePayreder, M., & Peyerl, R. (2020, May 14). Das Geständnis der Estibaliz Carranza. Kurier. https://kurier.at/chronik/wien/das-gestaendnis-der-estibaliz-carranza/1.263.891#google_vignettePiggott, M. (2014, November 16). “Ice Cream Killer” Estibaliz Carranza Publishes Memoir Describing her Horrific Crimes. International Business Times UK. https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/ice-cream-killer-estibaliz-carranza-publishes-memoir-describing-her-horrific-crimes-1475063Prodhan, G. (2012, November 23). Austria’s “Ice Lady” gets life for double murder. Times Colonist, B9.Reuters. (2012, November 12). “Ice Lady” confesses in deaths of two men. The Leader Post, B9.Velkova, V. (2025, June 12). The Ice Cream Killer: The Chilling Story of Estibaliz Carranza. Medium. https://medium.com/@victoria.vlkva/the-ice-cream-killer-the-chilling-story-of-estibaliz-carranza-8d40c7581cc6 If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know!
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com with Case Suggestion in the subject line.
Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.
Transcribed
12 NOV 2025 · In 2019, 33-year-old tech startup founder Erin Valenti, was on a work trip in Silicon Valley. At the end of her trip, she called her parents, telling them she couldn't find her rental car, but they were concerned by the strange statements she was making.
"It's all a game, it's a thought experiment, we're in the Matrix."
A week later, her body was found in her rented car on the side of the road in San Jose, but there were no clear signs of physical harm, and her family was adamant she didn't struggle with any mental health problems or substance use disorders. The circumstances of her death have remained a mystery ever since.
Thank you to The Final Trace for taking over after a death in my family.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-final-trace/id1821947859
The Final Trace is a true crime podcast unraveling the most chilling disappearances, cold cases, and solved mysteries that still leave us asking questions. Hosted by two friends with a passion for true crime, each episode explores the final known moments, forgotten clues, and the theories that keep us up at night.
From strange sightings to shocking conclusions, we follow the clues wherever they lead—because sometimes the scariest part isn’t the mystery… it’s the truth. If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know!
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com with Case Suggestion in the subject line.
Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.
Transcribed
5 NOV 2025 · Two women. Two cities. Two tragedies that never made national headlines. Rosetta Jean-Baptiste was found dead in Ramsey in 1993; Michelle Lynn Howard’s body was discovered in Atlantic City almost a decade later. Today, I shed light on their stories, the mysterious circumstances of their deaths, and why their unsolved murders still matter.
If anyone has any information about Rosetta Jean-Baptiste's murder, you are urged to call the Bergen County Cold Case Unit at 201-646-2300 or at 201-642-5962. You can also email them at coldcaseunit@bcpo.net.
Anyone with information about the murder of Michelle Howard is asked to call the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office at 609-909-7800, or you can submit a tip at their website http://www.acpo.org/tips. You can also call Crime Stoppers at 609-652-1234 or 1-800-658-8477 or go to their website http://www.crimestoppersatlantic.com/
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You can find us at:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookofthedeadpod/
X: https://twitter.com/Bkofthedeadpod
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550490186243
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thebookofthedeadpod
Or visit our website at http://botdpod.com/
Featuring a promo for Autumn's Oddities:
If it's creepy and weird, you'll find it here! This is a podcast for the strange and unusual, made by the strange and unusual.
Accept no substitutes!
Listen https://open.spotify.com/show/5DqfzP2LR7lBiWOg3KjYZu?si=f6426ff1780e41a1
Davis, E. (2020, November 30). Atlantic County prosecutor asks for help with 19-year old murder case. WPG Talk Radio 95.5 FM. https://wpgtalkradio.com/atlantic-county-prosecutor-asks-for-help-with-19-year-old-murder-case/DeMarco, J. (2021, August 7). COLD CASE: Killer Of Rockland Teen In Notorious Bergen Motel Got Away, Is He Around Today? Daily Voice. https://dailyvoice.com/new-jersey/mahwah/news/cold-case-killer-of-rockland-teen-in-notorious-bergen-motel-got-away-is-he-around-today/814120/McAleer, P. (2001a, November 29). “I just want them. . . caught,” victim’s brother says. Press of Atlantic City, C1–C6.McAleer, P. (2001b, December 28). A.C. woman’s slaying remains a mystery. Press of Atlantic City, C1.Miranda, C. O. (n.d.). Haiti and the United States during the 1980s and 1990s: refugees, immigration, and foreign policy. Digital USD. https://digital.sandiego.edu/sdlr/vol32/iss3/2/Murdered: Michelle Howard | Atlantic City, NJ | Uncovered. (n.d.). https://uncovered.com/cases/michelle-howard#timelineNew Jersey officials issue new plea for information in 2001 murder of Michelle Howard. (2020, November 30). NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline/daughter-fights-justice-19-years-after-mother-was-murdered-body-n1249187Press Staff Reports. (2001, November 28). Police ID woman found dead in Mizpah. Press of Atlantic City, C4.ROSETTA JEAN-BAPTISTE HOMICIDE. (n.d.). In Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office. https://www.bcpo.net/rosetta-jean-baptiste/Rosette Jean-Baptiste (1975-1993) - Find a grave. . . (1975, June 22). https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/158700874/rosette-jean-baptisteSamuels, M. (2021, August 6). Surveillance Video Released In 'Cold Blooded' Teaneck Killing. Teaneck, NJ Patch. https://patch.com/new-jersey/teaneck/surveillance-video-released-cold-blooded-2010-teaneck-murderTowner, C., & Towner, C. (2025, February 25). Rosette Jean-Baptiste killed in Ramsey New Jersey - City Towner. City Towner - Travel, History & True Crime Blog. https://citytowner.com/rosette-jean-baptiste-ramsey-nj/ If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know!
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com with Case Suggestion in the subject line.
Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.
Transcribed
31 OCT 2025 · Welcome to The Crypt, where our Crypt Keeper awaits to bring you tales fit for a dark and scary Halloween night. From legends of witches and ghost ships, to the stories of recent memory's most horrific real-life killers, there's plenty to set the mood for a frightful holiday. Featuring some of Darkcast Network's best, we've come together to ring in the season.
Grab your candy, take a seat, and settle in for tales from The Darkcast Crypt Keeper.
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If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com with Case Suggestion in the subject line.
Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.
Hosted by Courtney Liso, The Book of the Dead is a true crime podcast that focuses on the victims of lesser-known crimes. Each episode presents a deep dive into a...
show more
Hosted by Courtney Liso, The Book of the Dead is a true crime podcast that focuses on the victims of lesser-known crimes. Each episode presents a deep dive into a case from around the world, dissecting the details to tell the whole story of who each victim was, in addition to what happened to them. Formerly hosted by a mother-daughter team, the podcast has evolved with one host, taking the care necessary to ensure each victim is honored as they should be. Join Courtney every Wednesday at 12am EST for a new chapter in The Book of the Dead.
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Information
| Author | Courtney Liso |
| Organization | Courtney Liso |
| Categories | True Crime , History , News |
| Website | www.botdpod.com |
| bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com |
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