Only Murders on the Harbor

The Bassett Family Murders - Part 1


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On August 10, 1995, 16-year-old Brian Bassett murdered his parents and younger brother in McCleary, Washington. This episode covers the events leading up to the crime, the trial, and how this case sparked a decades-long legal journey that would impact juvenile sentencing in the state.

👉 Part 2 coming soon: We’ll cover Bassett’s resentencing, legal appeals, and his eventual release.

⚠️ Content Warning

This episode includes a discussion of familicide and juvenile incarceration. Listener discretion is advised.

📚 Sources

  • The Chronicle: Grays Harbor County Man Gets New Sentence
  • KING 5 News: Brian Bassett Resentenced
  • KXRO News: Bassett Released from Prison
  • Seattle Times Archive: Slain Family Feared Son
  • New York Times: 2 Teen-Agers Held
  • Spokesman-Review: Teen Convicted
  • FindLaw: Court of Appeals - State v. Bassett
  • Justia: WA Supreme Court (1999)
  • WA Courts: Majority Opinion PDF
  • Juvenile Law Center: Petition for Review PDF
  • Seattle U Law Review: Mandatory Juvenile LWOP
  • The Olympian: Bassett Family Murder Coverage

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Only Murders on the HarborBy Kaydee Mittleider