A mother's desperate claim that her two young sons were kidnapped by a carjacker unravels into one of the most shocking murder cases in South Carolina history. The Susan Smith case reveals how a web of lies, inconsistencies, and a devastating confession led to the discovery of a premeditated crime that shocked the nation.

• Susan Smith reported her sons Michael (3) and Alex (14 months) were taken during a carjacking on October 25, 1994
• For nine days, America watched as Susan and her husband David made tearful pleas on national television
• Investigators noticed troubling inconsistencies in Susan's story, including speaking of her children in past tense
• A "Dear Jane" letter from Susan's boyfriend suggested a potential motive for the disappearance
• Susan eventually confessed to rolling her car into John D. Long Lake with her sons strapped in their car seats
• The car floated for six minutes before sinking, with the boys conscious and likely terrified
• Despite claiming she initially planned suicide alongside her children, Susan's clothes were dry when she reported the crime
• Susan's false accusation that a Black man had committed the crime inflamed racial tensions in the community
• In November 2024, Susan was denied parole after serving 30 years, but will be eligible for review every two years

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On Christmas morning in 1945, a family's holiday joy shattered when flames consumed their home and five children mysteriously vanished. The Sodder family of Fayetteville, West Virginia, faced unthinkable tragedy that sparked theories of conspiracy and kidnapping. Starting with a strange phone call that Jenny Sautter received just before the blaze began, the episode delves into the moments leading to the horrifying fire that would change their lives forever.

We explore the bizarre occurrences that transpired that fateful night. Why did their coal trucks fail to start? Why was the ladder inexplicably missing? Why was the phone line cut? With every twist, the tragic tale morphs into a haunting mystery that captivates and perplexes investigators and listeners alike. The discussions in this episode highlight the unanswered questions that linger in the minds of those who reflect on the Sodder family.

Learn about the family's ongoing search for their missing children as they followed leads from cryptic letters and local sightings. This heartbreaking narrative, intertwined with themes of hope, loss, and the inherent complexities of human nature and community, remains unsolved. Join us as we chronicle this poignant story that stands as a testament to the unyielding pursuit of truth and peace for the Sodder family.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share your thoughts, and leave a review! Your insights matter as we dive deeper into the mysterious tales of Southern history.

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Discover the shocking crime spree of Carl Isaacs and his gang, whose violent escape from the Maryland State Penitentiary led to a terrifying series of events in 1973. How did a group of fugitives leave a trail of car thefts, burglaries, and brutal murders across several states? Unravel the gripping narrative of their journey southward, culminating in the harrowing Alday family massacre in Donaldsonville, Georgia, an event that left an indelible mark on the community and the justice system.

Experience the desperate and chaotic flight of these criminals, from the haunting break-in at the Alday family trailer to the tense showdown with armed citizens at a country store in Virginia. Witness the relentless pursuit by law enforcement, as these fugitives sought refuge in the West Virginia mountains, leaving behind a trail of devastation. This episode captures the chilling nature of their crimes and the intense manhunt that followed, as society scrambled to comprehend the impact of such heinous acts.

Reflect on the enduring legacy of the Alday family tragedy, a chapter in history that transformed the judicial landscape of Georgia. The trials and retrials of Carl Isaacs and his accomplices highlight the challenges of achieving justice amid widespread media attention and legal complexities. Explore the ripple effects of their actions on the Alday family and the broader community, as we honor the memory of those lost and examine the changes that arose from this dark moment in Southern history.

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Could a life of crime be born from the pages of a fashion magazine? Join me, Carole Townsend, as we uncover the thrilling story of Doris Payne, the woman who turned the allure of Harper's Bazaar into a blueprint for an extraordinary life as a master jewel thief. Raised amid the challenges of poverty, domestic violence, and racial inequality in 1930s West Virginia, Doris defied the odds stacked against her. From her audacious heist of a $20,000 diamond ring to the international escapades that followed, Doris's story is a fascinating mix of charm, skill, and boldness, each step drawing her further into the spotlight of Southern folklore.

Doris Payne's life wasn't just about the jewels she took; it was about the intricacies of a woman navigating a world eager to pigeonhole her. Discover her daring heists from Pittsburgh to Monte Carlo, and the personal relationships that shaped her path, including her bond with her mother and a mysterious Israeli associate. Despite brushes with law enforcement, her cunning ensured she remained a step ahead, turning her life into an unforgettable chapter of Southern history. With insights from NPR’s 2014 feature, we invite you to explore this captivating tale and subscribe for more stories that unravel the mysteries and allure of the South.

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Ever wondered what secrets lie beneath the cobblestone streets of Savannah? Join me, Carole Townsend, as I unravel the ghostly allure and historical intrigue of this Southern city, with tales that will leave you questioning the line between myth and reality. Our journey takes us first to the Mercer House, where the echoes of a dramatic event from May 2, 1981, continue to haunt Savannah's storied past. Inspired by John Barrett's "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil," we'll peel back the layers of Southern charm to discover a city where history, mystery, and idiosyncratic characters create an irresistible tapestry.

In this episode, prepare to be captivated by the vibrant personalities that have shaped Savannah's narrative. From Jim Williams' infamous trial to the spellbinding presence of Lady Chablis and the enigmatic Gullah Hoodoo priestess Minerva, these characters bring the city to life in unexpected ways. As we explore Savannah's awe-inspiring antebellum architecture and lush parks, I'll reveal how this coastal gem's past is interwoven with tales of hedonism and high society. So, find a cozy spot, perhaps with a mint julep in hand, and let these stories transport you to a place where every corner whispers its own secrets of the past.

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What if a single word could hold the key to one of America's oldest mysteries? Join me, Carole Townsend, as we journey through the haunting story of the Lost Colony of Roanoke. Set against the dramatic and often perilous landscape of North Carolina's Outer Banks, we'll unravel the complex tapestry of hope, ambition, and possibly tragedy that defined the fateful expedition led by Sir Walter Raleigh in the late 16th century. With only the enigmatic word "Croatoan" as a clue, the disappearance of 117 settlers remains an unsolved puzzle that continues to captivate historians and curious minds alike.

We'll explore the myriad theories about what could have happened to these early settlers—from peaceful integration with the Croatoan people to more sinister suggestions such as disease or conflict. This episode also delves into the curious historical echoes of "Croatoan," a word that has appeared in other unexplained contexts, including the mysterious final days of Edgar Allan Poe. As we navigate these intriguing narratives, you'll be invited to ponder the deeper connections within Southern history and lore. So, sit back on my virtual front porch, grab your favorite drink, and let's explore the stories that prove truth is often stranger than fiction.

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What eerie secrets lurk within the walls of King's Tavern, the oldest building in Natchez, Mississippi, where history and the paranormal intertwine? Journey with me, Carole Townsend, as we unravel the spine-chilling tales of murder and betrayal that haunt this ancient site and explore the historic Natchez Trace, a travel corridor rich with stories of coexistence and conflict. As we gather on my front porch, I promise you'll be captivated by the legends that echo through this historic site, questioning whether the energies of the past still linger. Expect to be both enthralled and unsettled as we connect the dots between history and ghostly encounters.

In our pursuit of dark history, we uncover the harrowing tale of America's first serial killers, the Harp brothers, infamous for their ruthless acts along the Natchez Trace. Their chilling legacy is theorized to influence the ghostly phenomena that make King's Tavern a supernatural hotspot. As we weave through history, we also touch upon the enigma of the lost colony of Roanoke, bringing together elements of mystery that define Southern folklore. With insights from resources like "Paranormal Mississippi Case Files" and "The Bloodthirsty Harp Brothers," this episode offers a thrilling blend of history, legend, and the supernatural, inviting you to share with fellow aficionados of historical mysteries.

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What if the deepest scars of Southern history were hidden within one family's tragic saga? Join us as we unravel the haunting mystery of the Woolfolk family massacre, a tale rooted in post-Civil War Georgia's tumultuous soil. Through the eyes of Thomas George Woolfolk, we walk a path littered with personal tragedy, failure, and a legacy of resentment. This episode paints a haunting portrait of a man ensnared by the complex web of family dynamics and Southern tradition, leaving listeners pondering the intricate interplay of emotion and history.

As we dissect this chilling case, you'll be transported to a time when justice was swift, and evidence was questionable. Despite the gravity of his accusations, Tom Woolfolk stood alone, his cries of innocence echoing into infamy as history judged him harshly. Through historical accounts and literature, we piece together the narrative from multiple perspectives, exploring the broader social context of the era, including the racially charged atmosphere that further darkened these events. Prepare to confront the unsettling questions and lingering mysteries that remain woven into the fabric of this Southern tragedy.

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