Episode 396: In this episode, we learn about an enigmatic narcissistic psychopath who led the Californian cult called The Children of Thunder. Glenn Taylor Helzer, and the other leadership was comprised of his brother Justin Helzer and their follower Dawn Godman. Raised in a strict Mormon home, Taylor’s life spiralled after years of mental health trouble. By 2000, the trio had formed a cult under Taylor’s delusional leadership. That summer, they murdered Ivan and Annette Stineman, Selina Bishop (daughter of guitarist Elvin Bishop), Jennifer Villarin, and James Gamble. The crime spree and investigation shocked authorities and families, exposing how Taylor twisted faith and loyalty into violence.

Episode Sources:

Shackles, Ski Masks and a Power Saw — Murderous Glenn Helzer and Justin Helzer called their cult The Children of Thunder — Crime Library
How Not To Get Away With Murder: Glenn Helzer And The Children Of Thunder
Glen Helzer | Wikipedia
Body Parts Identified / Disparate Tragedies' Common Ground Is Death, Suspects
Grisly clues unfolding in Delta case
Blues Guitarist's Daughter Killed
Murder, Madness and Mayhem by MIke Browne
20240418175434277_Cert Pet GlenTaylorHelzer
People v. Helzer
People v. Helzer, 317 Cal. Rptr. 3d 246 | Cal., Judgment, Law, casemine.com
Justin Helzer hangs himself in prison

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