In light of the recent airplane crashes, Jess decided to research incidents in Oklahoma. This turned up the tragic event from April 22, 1966. This date marks the worst plane crash in Oklahoma's history, involving American Flyers Airline Flight 280/D, which was transporting US soldiers from California to Georgia. The Lockheed L-188 Electra aircraft crashed while attempting to land at Ardmore Municipal Airport, leading to the deaths of the five crew members and 75 passengers, many of whom were new Army recruits. Factors such as low visibility, inclement weather, and a pilot's medical condition contributed to this disaster, which left a significant impact on the community.

The investigation by the U.S. Civil Aeronautics Board revealed information that will shock you! The crash prompted nearly two dozen wrongful death lawsuits against the airline and led to reforms in pilot medical certification processes. 

So stow your personal belongings in the overhead bins, buckle your seat belts, and sit back and enjoy this flight with your favorite cousins! We can’t promise turbulence free, but we can promise an informative time!  

Sources:

• Wikipedia

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Flyers_Airline 

• US Deadly Events.com

• Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives

• American Flyers.com

• The American Flyers Crash in Ardmore by Gary Heartsill 

• OKWreckChasing.org 

  YouTube MPC Flights

This week Tiff wraps up the 3 part deep dive into the Sapulpa Coach’s Tragedy. 

On January 26, 1976, a significant funeral for Coach Jerry Bailey took place at the First Baptist Church in Sapulpa, attended by around 1,200 people, including students and current and former players who honored a man celebrated for his inclusive approach to coaching. Coach Bailey, who grew up during a time of segregation, was known for treating all his players equally, regardless of race. His legacy included efforts to bridge racial divides, as he actively sought out African American players during a time when they were often unwelcome. 

Coach Bailey’s life ended tragically, leading to the trial of Paul Reagor Jr., who was charged with his murder. The legal proceedings revealed a contentious battle over Reagor's mental state at the time of the incident. Dive in with your favorite cousins as we put an end to 3 parter, looking at all sides of the coin. Decide for yourself what was the cause of this atrocious murder. Hatred? Grief? Mental illness?   

Sources:

• “Murder Under the Friday Night Lights: Guilt Will Get You” by Investigation Discovery

• Tulsa World: 2018 ; 2025

• “Because of the Hate” by Kirk McCracken

Picking up where we left off last week in Part 1, Tiff dives right into days, weeks, and months following the death of Sapulpa High School football coach Jerry Bailey. 

The investigation into the tragic events surrounding Coaches Paul Reagor Jr and Jerry Bailey began after medics transported Reagor to the hospital, leaving police to piece together the scene. Coach Bailey's body was discovered in the trunk of Reagor's car with signs indicating his life had ended brutally. He had multiple stab wounds and appeared to have been ambushed, as there were no defensive injuries. Meanwhile, the media frenzy began as photographers descended upon the scene, capturing the horrific details despite the sensitivity of the situation. Helicopter pilot Steve McKim, allowed to search a nearby abandoned farmhouse, discovered Reagor alive but in shock and covered in blood, leading police to question his role in Bailey's death. 

As the investigation unfolded, it became increasingly clear that Reagor was not merely a victim but a prime suspect. His behavior was erratic, and he initially refused to communicate with law enforcement and medical personnel. After a series of medical evaluations, he was found competent to stand trial, but his mental state remained questionable. Reagor eventually admitted to stabbing Bailey, claiming it was due to "the hate." The circumstances surrounding the murder revealed a complex relationship between the two coaches, who were once friends, yet the motive remained a haunting question for investigators and the community. 

Come with us as we explore the dark mind of others, and a story that has more twists than a Braums froyo machine. 

Sources:

The lasting influence of educators often shapes students' lives, a sentiment echoed by many. Coach Jerry Bailey, a beloved high school football coach and teacher, embodied this ideal, serving not only as a mentor but also as a friend and confidant to his students. His tragic murder in 1976 marked a dark chapter in the community of Sapulpa, Oklahoma. The true crime documentary series "Murder Under the Friday Night Lights" highlights this unsettling event, showcasing how a heinous crime can disrupt the unity of a small town, which was typically brought together by high school football games.

On January 22, 1976, the day began like any other for the Bailey family. Coach Jerry Bailey left home with his son Guy to teach at Sapulpa High School. After a brief interaction with Coach Reagor, the two coaches left campus together, sparking concern when they failed to return. As the hours passed, a series of alarming events unfolded, leading to the discovery of Bailey’s body in the trunk of Reagor's car, alongside evidence of a violent attack. Meanwhile, Reagor was found in a concerning state at a nearby farmhouse, leading to an investigation that would shake the community to its core and forever change the lives of those who knew Coach Bailey.

Tiff takes on the journey the city of Supulpa took, coming to grips when one of their own was ripped from their lives. This is part 1 the Sapulpa Coach Tragedy.

Sources:

“Murder Under the Friday Night Lights: Guilt Will Get You” by Investigation Discovery

Tulsa World: 2018 ; 2025

“Because of the Hate” by Kirk McCracken

Wikipedia

“Things that go ‘Bump’ in the night, Really shouldn’t give one a fright”. This famous quote from author Spike Milligan clearly was not familiar with the house in Eldorado, OK nicknamed the “Leave or Die House”. 

Jess’s kooky and spooky tale takes us to the far southwest tip of Oklahoma. The account of the Solis Family's experience in their Eldorado Home begins with a disturbing message found on the side of the house: "Leave or die." Initially dismissed as a prank, the family soon faced a series of unsettling events. The house, once a Missionary Baptist Church established in 1906, had a history of frequent ownership changes, often involving short stays by families and renters. The Solis Family, who moved in with hopes of renovating it for retirement, encountered alarming phenomena, including the illness and death of their pet dog, and unexplained occurrences such as flying insects vanishing, strange growls, and sightings of shadowy figures. 

As the family's distress grew, they sought help from the Oklahoma Paranormal Research & Investigation (OKPRI), which documented high electromagnetic fields and recorded disturbing voices during their investigation. An investigator experienced a severe spiritual attack while at the house, leading to the involvement of a renowned demonologist for a cleansing ceremony. Despite these efforts, the family continued to face troubling disturbances, ultimately deciding to sell the home and leave behind the haunting legacy of what was once a church now overrun by sinister forces. 

This week’s chilling tale serves as a reminder of the thin line between the sacred and the profane, leaving many to ponder what truly resides within the walls of the "Leave Now or Die" house.

Sources:

Ghosts and Legends of Oklahoma by Mike Ricksecker

The Eldorado House - OKPRI

News Channel 9

News9 

News Channel 6

OHS 

Being the height of cold and flu season here in Oklahoma, Tiff thought she’d bring a little history lesson on one of the world’s deadliest flu pandemics…The 1918 Flu Epidemic…aka The Spanish Flu.

The 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic, which spanned from 1918 to 1920, was one of the deadliest pandemics in history, infecting an estimated 500 million people or one-third of the global population. It was caused by the H1N1 subtype of the influenza A virus and emerged during the final stages of World War I. The pandemic's initial case in the U.S. was recorded in Kansas in March 1918, leading to widespread illness and death, with fatalities estimated between 17 million and 100 million worldwide. The Spanish Flu notably targeted young adults, contrasting with typical flu patterns that primarily affect the very young and elderly. Its name derived from the fact that neutral Spain reported the outbreak extensively, giving a false impression that it originated there. Public health responses included social distancing, quarantines, face masks, and the closure of schools and public gatherings, which were largely implemented too late to prevent significant spread.

In Oklahoma, the flu arrived with the second wave in September 1918, leaving residents unprepared and unaware of its severity. The first case was diagnosed in Tulsa, leading to the establishment of emergency hospitals as cases surged. Health officials struggled to respond efficiently due to a lack of communication and personnel, resulting in high mortality rates, particularly among the Choctaw Nation and young adults. The Red Cross played a crucial role in providing care and resources as local authorities enacted quarantines and closed public spaces to curb the outbreak. By late October, the situation improved as coordinated efforts led to better treatment and the establishment of temporary hospitals. Ultimately, the pandemic resulted in approximately 100,000 cases and 7,500 deaths in Oklahoma, significantly impacting the state's economy and its healthcare system.

So buckle up, buttercups. This will be bumpy…but don’t forget your hand sanitizer and tissue…we don’t want to spread any germs to our cousins! 

Sources:

This week Jess starts a new series…Oklahoma’s Death Row Women. And boy does she start out strong…perhaps with the most controversial one of all…

Wanda Jean Allen was born on August 17, 1959, in what is believed to be Oklahoma City, as the second of eight children in a troubled family. Her upbringing was marked by trauma, including severe injuries from a truck accident at age 12 and a stabbing at 14, which left her with significant cognitive impairments. Perhaps due to these challenges, she dropped out of high school at 17, having already faced more adversity than many encounter in a lifetime. Her life took a tragic turn in 1981 when she shot and killed her girlfriend, Dedra Pettus, during a dispute, leading to a plea deal that resulted in a four-year sentence for manslaughter. Seven years later, while in a tumultuous relationship with Gloria Jean Leathers, Allen shot Leathers during another confrontation, resulting in Leathers' death. Allen was subsequently charged with first-degree murder, and despite her claims of self-defense, the jury convicted her, leading to a death sentence.

Following her sentencing, Allen spent 12 years on death row, during which her mental state and the quality of her legal representation were called into question. Advocacy groups like the ACLU argued that she suffered from brain damage and had received inadequate legal support during her trial, which they claimed was influenced by biases related to race, class, and sexual orientation. Despite appeals for clemency, Allen was executed by lethal injection on January 11, 2001. Her final moments were marked by a mix of defiance and remorse, as she expressed forgiveness while acknowledging her past. The complexities of her life and the legal proceedings surrounding her case raise significant questions about the fairness of her trial and the broader implications of the death penalty in Oklahoma, a state with a controversial history of capital punishment.

Sources:

- The Oklahoman

Happy New Year!! Let's start this new year out with some new spooks!

What pops into your mind when you hear the city name of McAlester?

Well, if you’re an Oklahomie, you instantly probably think of prison. Yes, McAlester is famously known to be the home of the Oklahoma State Penn. But one might not necessarily think about the kooky and spooky aspect of a city such as this one. It’s probably safe to say that a city that houses a state’s penitentiary…the state’s most awful and dangerous criminals…probably has some kooky energy running amuck.

McAlester, OK, located in the southeastern part of the state, has a rich history tied to its founding and development. Originally named Perryville after James Perry in 1838, it became a significant location when the California Road crossed the Texas Road. Despite its early promise, Perryville was destroyed during the Civil War, leading to the rise of McAlester, named after Captain J. J. McAlester, who recognized the area's coal deposits. The town eventually became notable for its penitentiary, which opened in 1908 and now houses maximum-security inmates, including those on death row. The town's history is steeped in events that could explain its reputation for ghostly occurrences, including the forced relocation of Native Americans, a major Civil War battle, and its role as a coal town.

Today, McAlester is known not only for its historical significance but also for its spooky attractions and ghost stories. The Pittsburg County Courthouse is said to be haunted by a spirit named George, with numerous accounts of unexplained phenomena. Other haunted locations include Mary Jane's 1896 Cafe & Pub, where ghostly pranks are reported, and Doc's Haunted Antique Store, rumored to contain haunted items. The McAlester Scottish Rite Temple hosts an annual ghost-themed event, while KTMC radio station, built over a burial ground, has its share of eerie encounters. The OSP Warden’s Mansion, constructed by inmates, is another focal point of ghostly tales, with many former occupants claiming to have experienced supernatural phenomena.

So if you’re ready for a city-wide spookfest, perhaps McAlester should be your next stop in the Sooner State! 

Sources:

Has Jess got a TALL TALE for you all today…literally!

When one thinks of the Cherokee Strip, one doesn’t normally conjure up an image of Goliath or Tom Thumb or a full-blown circus for that matter, unless maybe you’re from the area and grew up listening to the tales.

Lewis Wilkins, born in 1869 or 1870, was known as "The Oklahoma Giant" due to his extraordinary height of 8 feet 2 inches and weight of 365 pounds. He grew up in a large family in Butler County, Kansas, and moved to a farm near Waukomis after the Cherokee Strip opened in 1893. By the age of 12, he was already over six feet tall and gained fame through his travels as a giant, touring worldwide. Despite being well-formed, Lewis faced health issues later in life, ultimately discovering a bone tumor pressing on his optic nerve. After a trip to Chicago for potential surgery, he died on July 10, 1902, at age 33. His funeral drew a crowd of about 2,000 people, and he was buried near his family home, with his body temporarily placed in a specially designed casket to prevent theft for carnival displays. Although his family received a significant insurance payout, Lewis was reinterred in Waukomis Cemetery without a marker indicating his status as the tallest man in the world at the time of his death.

Sources:

This week, Tiff brings us one of the kookiest cases your favorite cousins have eve dived into…the unsolved case of Roberta “Bobby” Lynn Daniel. Born in 1952, in Kansas, but living virtually all of her life here in Oklahoma, Bobby is remembered as a happy and talented child, who not only thrived in the dance studio, but also on the back of a horse.  Bobby spent most of her childhood in Buffalo, moved to Woodward, where she graduated, and ended up in Watonga. And though her first marriage didn’t work out, she seemed to have found her love match in her second marriage in 1985.  

On January 2, 1988, a seemingly ordinary day took a horrific turn when Bobby was found brutally attacked in her home, leading to a complex investigation. Initial evidence suggested a robbery gone wrong, but inconsistencies raised suspicions about none other than Bobby’s own husband’s involvement…Terry Daniel. Despite the discovery of life insurance policies taken out shortly before Bobby's death, Terry was acquitted of murder charges in 2000 after a lengthy trial marked by missing evidence and investigative errors. As of now, the case remains unsolved, with no one held accountable for Bobby's brutal death. 

The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation and Blaine County Sheriff’s Department continue to seek information from the public regarding this cold case. 

Tips can be left at:

OSBI- 1-800-522-8017 or  [email protected].

Blaine County- (580) 623-5111 or tip form:  (https://blainecosheriff-ok.gov/submit-tip#:~:text=Send%20us%20your%20Tip&text=If%20your%20tip%20concerns%20a,(580)%20623%2D5111) 

Sources: