Curious Cousins OK Podcast

One of Oklahoma’s favorite pastimes is spending those hot, summer days at any of our beautiful Oklahoma lakes. Pair that with holiday weekend, and you got yourself summer time gold! The July 4th weekend in 1999 had the markings of just that. However, at some point during that weekend, 14-year-old Bobbie Wofford left  her friends to hang out with a newer, rougher crowd…never to be seen alive again. Witnesses placed her talking to a man at a gas station.  She may have also been seen at a local bar. On Nov. 4, 1999, her decomposing body was found in the woods. 

This week, Jess will walk us through the timeline of events; those last seen moments; the witness testimony; and the confession from serial killer Tommy Lynn Sells. The evidence linking him to the case though is shaky, and Bobbie's death remains unsolved. Her picture and story appears in a set of cold cases card decks. But that is exactly where the case stands…cold.  A $5,000 reward is offered, and kookily enough, the FBI profile of the killer has never been publicly released.

This tale is twisty and turny…and may be a bit mature for some listeners…listener discretion is advised. 

Special thanks to listener Megan Pope Whitehead for recommending this case!!

If you have any information on the unsolved murder of Bobbie Wofford please contact the Kingfisher County Sheriff at (405) 375-4242.

Sources:

Wikipedia 

All That Is Interesting

Who’s ready for a cryptid to kick off spooky season? Still riding the high of our season premier, Tiff dives into the most famous (or infamous?) cryptid of them all…BIGFOOT!!! 

Bigfoot, also known as Sasquatch, is a legendary creature described as a large, hairy, human-like being said to live in North America's forests, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. Featured heavily in American and Canadian folklore, Bigfoot has become a cultural icon with a dedicated following among cryptozoologists who seek to provide evidence of its existence through anecdotal reports, photographs, and other dubious claims. Despite this enthusiasm, the scientific hasn’t completely jumped on board yet. The origins of the Bigfoot legend can be traced to European wild man figures and indigenous tales, with similar creatures appearing in various cultures worldwide.

In the United States, particularly in Oklahoma, there has been a recent resurgence of Bigfoot interest, marked by numerous sightings and dedicated events, such as the annual Bigfoot conference in Honobia. Reports from locals describe encounters with a creature resembling Bigfoot, often characterized by its enormous footprints and foul odor, leading to nicknames like "skunk ape." Researchers like David Wilbanks have documented numerous sightings and experiences in Oklahoma's Kiamichi Mountains and other regions, where they have sought to gather evidence and understand the creature's elusive nature. While there remains skepticism about the existence of Bigfoot, the fascination and cultural significance surrounding it continue to thrive, prompting ongoing exploration and investigation into this mysterious figure.

So…what do you think…is there something lurking in the woods? 

Sources:

YOO-WHO! WE’RE BAAAAACCCCCKKKKK!!

Welcome, cousins, to SEASON 3, of Oklahoma’s kookiest and spookiest podcast! 

Blame it all on our roots…Jess is starting this season with an outlaw episode!

Marlow, Ok, derives its name from the Marlow family, particularly the notorious Marlow brothers who became infamous after the town's establishment. Located in the northwestern quarter of Stephens County, Marlow is situated near major highways and the historic Chisholm Trail. The story of the Marlow family begins with Dr. Williamson Marlow, who, after a series of personal tragedies, became a wandering physician. He and his family settled in the area during the 1880s, where they engaged in farming and trading, eventually becoming embroiled in conflicts that led to their notoriety.

The saga of the Marlow brothers escalated when Boone Marlow shot a cowboy in self-defense, prompting a series of legal troubles that culminated in a mob ambush. In a dramatic confrontation, Boone and his brothers defended themselves against a vigilante mob, resulting in casualties on both sides. Despite being wrongfully accused of horse theft and murder charges, the brothers eventually escaped and sought refuge in Colorado, where they were embraced by the community. The tale of the Marlow brothers, marked by bravery and resilience, has been immortalized in popular culture, including the film "The Sons of Katie Elder," showcasing their legendary status in American history.

 We are kicking this season off with a BANG! Join us all season long as we continue to cover all things kooky and spooky in the state of Oklahoma! 

Sources:

BONUS EPISODE!

Your favorite cousins were thrilled to ask author Janie Nesbitt Jones some questions regarding Red Hall’s infamous tale. This week, listen to the questions Tiff and Jess asked Mrs. Jones, and Mrs. Jones’ answers. If you have any questions for the author, feel free to reach out on her facebook page!! 

Just a reminder…this is our last new episode until September when Season 3 will start with Jess telling us a tale about some dark, Oklahoma history! 

Thanks for all your continued love and support this season! We are so appreciative and blessed by each and every one of you! We can’t wait to bring you more KOOKY and SPOOKY tales in season 3. 

Don’t forget! If you haven’t listened to Episodes 89-94, please do so now! We can’t have our cousins being lost! 

**Please check out Janie Nesbitt Jones’ book “The Arkansas Hitchhike Killer: James Waybern ‘Red’ Hall” wherever you get your books! 

Sources:

The end is here! This week, Tiff wraps up our season finale's deep dive!

Now that the prosecution has spoken their piece, it’s time for the defense to attempt to clear Red’s “good name”...

Last week, we listened to Tiff describe how the prosecution could barely get two words in before the defense had some cockamamie objection in response. THIS WEEK, Tiff walks us through the defense’s side, taking us through numerous doctors and family members of Red’s. Was there something cognitively wrong with Red Hall? Did family members believe Red’s personality was backed by family history? Does Counselor Moody allow witnesses to speak for more than 3 words? If you thought the first part of the trial was a doozy, just wait until you hear this last part!

Strap in as we cover the end of the trail all the way through sentencing and *SPOILER* execution. What are your feelings? Did Red get a fair and just trial? Was justice served to Fay’s family and the fellow victims? Does Moody's antics belong in a modern courtroom? You decided as your favorite cousins conclude the saga that was James Waybern Hall.

Don’t forget! If you haven’t listened to Episodes 89-93, please do so now! We can’t have our cousins being lost! 

**Please check out Janie Nesbitt Jones’ book “The Arkansas Hitchhike Killer: James Waybern ‘Red’ Hall” wherever you get your books! 

Sources:

Time for Arkansas’ trial of the 40s! James Waybern Hall, aka Red, was going to be tried for his crime against his wife Fayrene. The state felt this was the strongest case they had in placing and keeping Red behind bars.  This week, Tiff will walk us through the State’s case against Red. And of course, Red’s attorney will pull every string he can in an attempt to get his client off with an insanity plea…surprised? We weren’t either.  

This trial is, at times, a circus event, with the defense interrupting, objecting, and frustrating witnesses and the judge. Was this the plan all along? You be the judge…lol! And with a pile of evidence, the defense will attempt to convince the jury that Fay’s death is anything BUT obvious…something the prosecution easily feels they can prove.  

Don’t forget! If you haven’t listened to Episodes 89-92, please do so now! We can’t have our cousins being lost! 

**Please check out Janie Nesbitt Jones’ book “The Arkansas Hitchhike Killer: James Waybern ‘Red’ Hall” wherever you get your books! 

Sources:

This week, Jess takes us into part 4 of our season finale James Waybern “Red” Hall…the Arkansas Hitchhike Killer. 

The investigation into the murders connected to Red Hall revealed disturbing details about his actions and mindset. He provided law enforcement with detailed descriptions of his crimes, even taking them to the site where he left his wife, Fay. The identification of Fay was made possible through a jawbone, and as detectives continued their inquiry, they discovered that Red had traveled to California after her murder. This raised suspicions that he might have committed more murders during his travels, prompting authorities to share his picture and fingerprints nationwide. As information poured in from various states, law enforcement sought connections to other unsolved cases, including the Lambert/Nipper killings in Kansas and other murders in Oklahoma and Texas.

As the investigations progressed, Red Hall's personality and interactions with law enforcement became increasingly notable. Despite his heinous acts, he managed to charm those around him, leading to moments of dark humor and disturbing revelations. During his trips with police, he reenacted some murders and expressed a bizarre sense of pride in the attention he garnered, even likening his situation to a carnival sideshow. Red's confessions, filled with contradictions, included claims of having killed numerous individuals, yet he continued to deny involvement in specific cases despite the mounting evidence against him. The investigations highlighted the complexities of Red Hall's character, leaving many questions unanswered as law enforcement agencies worked tirelessly to piece together his dark past.

Don’t forget! If you haven’t listened to Episodes 89-91, please do so now! We can’t have our cousins being lost! 

**Please check out Janie Nesbitt Jones’ book “The Arkansas Hitchhike Killer: James Waybern ‘Red’ Hall” wherever you get your books! 

Sources:

When it comes to serial killers, there are some things that many have in common; childhood abuse, head injuries, discipline and strictness in the name of religion, submissive parent while the other is domineering…Red Hall seemed to check many, if not all these boxes. Narcissism is also a characteristic of these types of people. Red loved to talk…and talking about his crimes was no exception!  

When Little Rock PD and the Arkansas State Police questioned Red Hall, it didn’t take much longer than 2 hours to get him to start talking. And talking he did! Investigators not only got motive, but they got blow-by-blow accounts of each death. 

This week Tiff will take you through Red’s confession and account on what happened each day, on the roads, while hitchhiking. If his story hasn’t convinced you yet to not hitchhike, perhaps this one will…

This is part 3 of our season finale deep dive covering The Arkansas Hitchhike Killer James Wayber ‘Red’ Hall. Please listen to episodes 89 and 90 before you listen to this one! 

**Please check out Janie Nesbitt Jones’ book “The Arkansas Hitchhike Killer: James Waybern ‘Red’ Hall” wherever you get your books! 

Sources:

This week Tiff takes talks us through part 2, the crimes portion, of our deep dive into the life of serial killer James Waybern Hall. 

James Waybern Hall, also known as Red, was involved in a series of crimes spanning various states in the late 1930s and early 1940s. He was suspected of multiple murders and was known to hitchhike and commit violent acts. His first victim was believed to be his own brother, followed by a string of murders in different locations such as Kansas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. The details of his crimes were gruesome, with victims found beaten and shot. Red's behavior led to suspicions and investigations conducted by law enforcement across different states.

As the investigation unfolded, more connections were made between the murders, and Red's involvement became clearer. He was known for his constant traveling and encounters with various individuals before his eventual arrest. The police gathered evidence linking him to multiple killings, including the discovery of a crucial firearm. Despite initially appearing calm during interrogations, Red's demeanor shifted when faced with incriminating evidence. The investigation into Red's crimes continued, revealing a pattern of violence and deception that kept authorities on high alert.

**Please check out Janie Nesbitt Jones’ book “The Arkansas Hitchhike Killer: James Waybern ‘Red’ Hall” wherever you get your books! 

Sources:

Well cousins, it’s that time again! Time for our season finale shows! What a season we have had! But don’t fret…it isn’t over yet! You still have a few more weeks before we take our August break!

This Season 2 final deep dive was requested to us by listener Janie Nesbitt Jones! We traveled to Arkansas in May of 2023 to Crime Con. There is where we met Ms. Jones. This is where we learned about a man who would peak our podcasting interests. A man by the name of James Waybern Hall, or Red, for short, who became one of our region’s prolific serial killers. James Hall is known as “The Arkansas Hitchhike Killer”.  Ms. Jones reached out to us this May, and the crazy thing was, we were looking for topics for our season finale…and Red’s story was in our choices! So we dedicate these episodes to author and expert Janie Nebitt Jones!

James Waybern Hall honestly had all the makings of a serial killer…strict, zealot-like religious upbringing, abusive father, submissive mother, a head injury…in addition, Red, as he was often called, grew up on a farm where their meals came straight from the field to table…perhaps helping to appease a fascination with death. Throughout his early life, Red seemed to be charming, manipulative, and a tad bit deceitful. He talked a good game, in other words. He dabbled in petty thief, but that didn’t always bring the thrill it seemed he needed at times. Red LOVED traveling…making stops in Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and as far away as Arizona and California. 

So buckle up, cousins. Jess is going to kick off this ride with some background info regarding Arkansas’ notorious murderer. Let’s take a ride through the 1940s. Just be careful who you pick-up along the side of the road…  

**Please check out Janie Nesbitt Jones’ book “The Arkansas Hitchhike Killer: James Waybern ‘Red’ Hall” wherever you get your books! 

Sources: