Welcome to True Crime Sleep Stories, where haunting tales of the past guide you into a restful night’s sleep. In this episode, we journey to Ina, Illinois, in November 1987, to unravel the chilling and unsolved Dardeen Family Murders—a case that shattered a small town and left a mystery that lingers like fog over the fields. Settle in, dim the lights, and let this story carry you into the shadows.

On a crisp autumn evening in 1987, the Dardeen family—Keith, Elaine, their son Peter, and their unborn daughter Casey—lived a quiet life in a mobile home in rural Ina, Illinois. Dreams of a fresh start in Mount Carmel were on the horizon, but a darkness descended on November 17, silencing their hopes. Found brutally murdered in their home, with Keith’s body discovered a mile away, the Dardeens’ deaths stunned a community already shaken by a wave of violence. No forced entry, no clear motive, and a killer who vanished like a ghost. Was it a trusted friend, a drifter like Tommy Lynn Sells, or something more sinister? Join us as we explore this heartbreaking case, told with care to honor the lives lost, in a narrative designed to soothe and intrigue as you drift toward sleep.

Content Warning: This episode contains descriptions of brutal violence. If you prefer lighter stories, check out our other episodes in the playlist below.

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CrimeCon 2025 is right around the corner! Mark your calendars for September 5-7, 2025, and join me in Denver, Colorado, for the ultimate true crime experience.

You can get 10% off your ticket using my exclusive discount code BRINK at checkout.

As a special thank-you to my listeners, stop by my table with your ticket/code receipt, because I’ll have a free signed copy of my book waiting for you. Come say hi—I can’t wait to meet you!

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If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and recommend True Crime Sleep Stories to your fellow true crime enthusiasts. Follow along for more dark and mysterious tales to ease you into your evening. And as always, stay curious and stay safe.

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True Crime Sleep Stories, Volume 1: https://amzn.to/3Z8jx5L

True Crime Sleep Stories, Volume 2: https://amzn.to/4kAthhj

True Crime Sleep Stories, Volume 3:https://amzn.to/3H9xfPQ

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Support us: Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, or share this episode with a friend. Your support brings more stories to light.

Suggest a case: Have a mystery you’d like us to explore? DM us on social media or email us via our website.

Thank you for joining us in the shadows of Ina, Illinois, to remember the Dardeen family. Their story is a reminder of love, loss, and the enduring quest for truth. If you’re drifting off, let the questions fade into the night. For those still awake, carry this tale lightly, and may your dreams be gentle. Sleep well, and we’ll meet again in the next mystery.

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