A quiet afternoon. A parking garage. A crime that would haunt a community for decades.
The murder of Joyce Paneck-Saglimbene in 1976 shocked Englewood, New Jersey, but with little evidence and no suspects, her case faded into obscurity for three decades. As hope for justice waned, a sudden arrest brought her case back into the spotlight, but was the killer really found?

If you have any information about Joyce's murder, you can contact the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office (201)226-5532


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Featuring a promo for Family Plot Podcast:
a podcast featuring Dean Boese, Laura Williams and their 15 year old son Arthur where they do PG-13 takes on all things odd
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Alaya, A. M. (2006, August 24). DNA results could sway case in secretary’s 1976 killing. The Star Ledger, A17–A21.Arias, L. (2006, August 30).
Arrest made in 1976 murder case. Northern Valley Suburbanite, 6.
Bronx man arrested in 30-year-old murder. (2006, August 23). The Daily Journal, A5.Content, C. (2019, January 11).
Cold case: criminal activity assured. New York Daily News. https://www.nydailynews.com/2009/08/29/cold-case-criminal-activity-assured/Dillon, N. (2018, April 9). HE's GOT TO PAY FOR 76' SLAY, EX-HUBBY SAYS. New York Daily News. https://www.nydailynews.com/2006/08/24/hes-got-to-pay-for-76-slay-ex-hubby-says/Dillon, N., Bode, N., & Kadushin, P. (2018, April 9). HIS KILLER PAST.BELOVED, HARDWORKING BX. DAD IS CHARGED WITH STABBING WOMAN 19 TIMES IN 1976 JERSEY SLAYING. New York Daily News. https://www.nydailynews.com/2006/08/23/his-killer-past-beloved-hardworking-bx-dad-is-charged-with-stabbing-woman-19-times-in-1976-jersey-slaying/Feuer, A. (2006, August 23). Arrest in a 30-Year-Old Murder Case Reignites the Pain of a Victim’s Family. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2006/08/23/nyregion/23cold.htmlMarkos, K. (2008, September 19). Man pleads guilty in 1976 slaying. The Record, L1.Meuller, M., & Peet, J. (2006, August 23). To her brother, victim will always be 27, smiling and beautiful. The Star Ledger, 5.Mongelli, L. (2006, August 23). SLAY BUST ENDS 30-YEAR WEIGHT - “PEACE” AT LAST FOR ’76 VICTIM’S BROTHER. New York Post. https://nypost.com/2006/08/23/slay-bust-ends-30-year-weight-peace-at-last-for-76-victims-brother/The Record Staff. (1976, May 16). Police seek firm clues in murder. The Sunday Record, A24.

If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know! 
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at [email protected] with Case Suggestion in the subject line.

Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.

In January 2018, Reno native, 19-year-old Caitlin Denison arrived in Midland, Texas, with a man she barely knew, then vanished without a trace. Before she disappeared, she made chilling calls to her family, hinting that she feared for her life. From Caitlin’s final known movements, theories of why she went to Texas in the first place, and the desperate search to bring her home, this is the baffling story of a young woman who was never seen again.

If you have information that can help bring Caitlin home, you can:

• Submit a Tip Online through the Texas Rangers' Cold Case website.
• Contact the Texas Rangers by telephone at 1-800-346-3243. Your information will be forwarded to the Texas Ranger assigned to this case.
• Call Crime Stoppers - Texas Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $3,000 to any person who provides information that leads to the arrest of the person/persons responsible for this crime. Call the Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-252-TIPS (8477). All tips are anonymous. 

Donate to help find Caitlin Denison Here
Find Caitlin Denison Facebook Page


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Or visit our website at www.botdpod.com

Featuring a promo for Mountain Murders;
East coast murders covered by Appalachian folks, Heather & Dylan. Who knew mountains could be so deadly? Are you ready to embark on a perilous journey through the treacherous peaks of true crime?
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Alert, F. (2018, June 13). Family fears for missing Reno woman’s safety. https://www.firstalert7.com. https://www.firstalert7.com/content/news/Authorities-searching-for-woman-last-seen-in-Midland-485398621.htmlCaitlin Marie Denison – The Charley Project. (n.d.). https://charleyproject.org/case/caitlin-marie-denisonCorrea, A. (2025a, January 23). Texas DPS continues search for missing woman last seen in Midland. newswest9.com. https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/investigations/texas-dps-missing-womans-case-caitlin-denison-midland/513-c5615507-cba8-4dd4-a20b-d6aafd636032Correa, A. (2025b, January 23). Texas DPS continues search for missing woman last seen in Midland. newswest9.com. https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/investigations/texas-dps-missing-womans-case-caitlin-denison-midland/513-c5615507-cba8-4dd4-a20b-d6aafd636032Details - Unsolved homicide. (n.d.). https://www.dps.texas.gov/apps/coldCase/Home/Details/278Dupnick, T. (2024, October 15). Renewed interest sparked in 2018 missing person’s case. newswest9.com. https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/crime/renewed-interest-sparked-in-2018-missing-persons-case/513-e3fd53ab-ba99-4cef-8b85-fb14e359c9efGross, S. (2018, August 31). Reno woman has been missing in Texas for months. Reno Gazette Journal, 3A.Jonathan Polasek (News West9). (2022, May 20). New detective investigating Caitlin Denison case. newswest9.com. https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/new-detective-caitlin-denison-case/513-b9ee386e-ce69-4708-a107-34cd544af40bMidland Fast Facts | Midland, TX - Official website. (n.d.). https://www.midlandtexas.gov/1120/Midland-Fast-FactsMiller, E. (n.d.). UPDATE: Family confirms Midland Co search related to Caitlin Denison disappearance. Your Basin. Retrieved January 22, 2025, from https://www.yourbasin.com/news/texas-rangers-conducting-investigation-in-midland-county/Penrose, K., & Penrose, K. (2024, April 3). 10 years after Brianna Denison’s murder shook northern Nevada, her cousin has gone missing. Carson Now. https://www.carsonnow.org/08/13/2018/ten-years-after-briana-denisons-murder-her-cousin-went-missing-same-ageRichter, B. K. (2024, November 24). Texas Rangers renew search for Caitlin Denison, missing since 2018. MRT. https://www.mrt.com/news/crime/article/caitlin-denison-disappearance-texas-19881001.php

If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know! 
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at [email protected] with Case Suggestion in the subject line.

Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.

When 19-year-old Brianna Denison vanished from her friend's home in the early hours of January 20, 2008, the city of Reno, Nevada was on high alert, rallying to help find her and bring her home. As police worked with minimal evidence to find Brianna's abductor, they followed the DNA trail to the University of Nevada, Reno Campus, uncovering a predator who had been targeting students for months. 

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You can find us at:
Instagram: @bookofthedeadpod
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Or visit our website at www.botdpod.com

ABC News. (2008a, January 22). FBI joins search for “Abducted” teen. https://abcnews.go.com/US/Story?id=4172264&page=2ABC News. (2008b, February 19). Body found in Reno is missing student. https://abcnews.go.com/TheLaw/story?id=4301456&page=1Being Brianna’s Brother. (2018, January 28). Reno Gazette Journal, 7A.Bellisle, M. (2009, January 9). Four aggravating conditions cited for capital punishment. Reno Gazette Journal, 1A-7A.Bellisle, M., & Mullen, F. X., Jr. (2008, November 27). Biela had trouble with women, law. RGJ. https://ceadstorage.blob.core.windows.net/cead-images/NewsReportreBiela.pdfBiela gets life prison on top of death row. (2010, July 31). Nevada Appeal. https://www.nevadaappeal.com/news/2010/jul/31/biela-gets-life-prison-on-top-of-death-row/Biela v. State, 381 P.3d 594 | Nev., Judgment, Law, casemine.com. (n.d.). https://www.casemine.com. https://www.casemine.com/judgement/us/5975bc9eadd7b04349680535Crime Desk. (2025, July 11). Stolen in the Night: The Brianna Denison murder that changed Nevada forever. Medium. https://medium.com/@crimedesk/stolen-in-the-night-the-brianna-denison-murder-that-changed-nevada-forever-96c89c54a49bFort Bragg Advocate-News. (2018, August 23). Brianna Denison: Former Mendocino youth missing. Fort Bragg Advocate-News. https://www.advocate-news.com/2008/01/24/brianna-denison-former-mendocino-youth-missing/IrishExaminer.com. (2020, May 19). US serial rapist sentenced to death. Irish Examiner. https://www.irishexaminer.com/world/arid-30460203.htmlJames Biela petitions court for retrial in rape, murder of 19-year-old Brianna Denison. (2016, July 12). KRXI. https://foxreno.com/news/local/james-biela-returns-to-court-for-rape-and-murder-of-19-year-old-reno-womanJournal, M. B. R. G. (2018, January 26). From May 2010: Testimony details discovery of body, Brianna Denison death. Reno Gazette Journal. https://www.rgj.com/story/news/crime/2018/01/26/may-2010-testimony-details-discovery-body-brianna-denison-death/1067359001/Jul 28, 2008, page 4 - Reno Gazette-Journal at Newspapers.comTM. (n.d.). Newspapers.com. https://www.newspapers.com/image/149445981/?match=1&terms=brianna%20denisonKing, G. C. (n.d.). The murder of Brianna Denison — snatched in the Dead of Night — Crime Library. https://www.crimelibrary.org/notorious_murders/classics/brianna_denison/1.htmlKrikorian, T. (2008, March 29). Family invites communty to mark Denison birthday. Reno Gazette Journal, 1A-8A.McCandrew, S. (2008, November 28). Blue ribbons selling out at local stores. Reno Gazette Journal, 3A.Miller, C. (2010, June 3). BRIaNna Denison’s killer, James Biela, gets death; mom says “He messed with the wrong family.” CBS News. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/brianna-denisons-killer-james-biela-gets-death-mom-says-he-messed-with-the-wrong-family/Nov 27, 2008, page 5 - Reno Gazette-Journal at Newspapers.comTM. (n.d.). Newspapers.com. https://www.newspapers.com/image/149622758/?match=1&terms=brianna%20denisonO’Malley, J. (2008a, February 22). Police: Suspect not a serial killer, yet. Reno Gazette Journal, 3A.O’Malley, J. (2008b, November 26). Police: DNA links Denison murder suspect to crimes. RGJ. https://archive.ph/20130201071613/http://www.rgj.com/article/20081126/NEWS18/81126016O’Malley, J. (2008c, November 28). Family calls tipster “incredibly brave.” Reno Gazette Journal, 4A.O’Malley, J. (2008d, November 28). Family to fight for tougher laws. Reno Gazette Journal, 3A.Oram, C. (2019a). Order of affirmance. In SUPREME COURT OF NEVADA. https://www.supremecourt.gov/DocketPDF/19/19-6204/117740/20191002123643407_Appendix%20Exhibits.pdfOram, C. (2019b). Petition for Writ of Certiorari - James Biela v. The State of Nevada. In Supreme Court of the United States. https://www.supremecourt.gov/DocketPDF/19/19-6204/117740/20191002123312032_Cert%20Petition.pdfORAM, C. R., NOBLE, J. P., & Washoe County District Attorney. (2019). RESPONDENT’S BRIEF IN OPPOSITION. In SUPREME COURT OF THE UNITED STATES [Legal brief]. https://www.supremecourt.gov/DocketPDF/19/19-6204/121720/20191107121019017_BIELA_BRIEF%20IN%20OPP_PET%20CERTIORARI.pdfProducer, B. R. M. N. G. (n.d.). Tip line played key role in cracking cold case - CNN.com. https://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/12/02/cold.case.arrest/index.htmlReports, W. (2008, February 23). Former Mendocino resident remembered at candlelight vigil. The Press Democrat. https://www.pressdemocrat.com/2008/02/23/former-mendocino-resident-remembered-at-candlelight-vigil/Search - Supreme Court of the United States. (n.d.). https://www.supremecourt.gov/search.aspx?filename=/docket/docketfiles/html/public/19-6204.htmlStaff. (2017, March 1). Suspect in Denison slaying fit the profile. Las Vegas Review-Journal. https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/suspect-in-denison-slaying-fit-the-profile/The Reno Gazette Journal & Lyon County News Leader. (2008, February 21). Brianna Denison Obituary. Legacy. https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/rgj/name/brianna-denison-obituary?id=27318198

If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know! 
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at [email protected] with Case Suggestion in the subject line.

Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.

Leighandre “Baby Lee” Jegels was a rising star in South African boxing; an undefeated fighter, a national karate champion, and a young woman whose strength inspired thousands. But behind the scenes, she was fighting a far more dangerous opponent. In a case that ignited widespread anger and renewed attention to South Africa’s epidemic of gender-based violence, Leighandre's promising career was cut short by the man who was supposed to love and protect her, and she was failed by the very system designed to keep her safe.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or gender based violence, you can contact:

In South Africa:
The Gender Based Violence Command Center hotline

•  0800 428 428 (Call Line)
•  31531 (Text Line)
• or visit their website at gbv.org.za

 The Stop Gender Violence Help Line

•  0800 150 150
•  or visit their website at lifelinesa.co.za

In America:

• The Domestic Violence Hotline Website
   call: 800-799-7233
  Text SAFE to 88788

In the UK

• https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk
• or call 0808 2000 247

Connect with us on Social Media!
You can find us at:
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X: @bkofthedeadpod
Facebook: The Book of the Dead Podcast
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Or visit our website at www.botdpod.com


Featuring a promo for True Crime California:
True Crime California is a podcast about crimes that take place in, you guessed it - the great Golden State of California. Brought to you by Cindy, these stories will cover everything from well known crimes we've all heard about, to more obscure stories that need to be told. 
Listen here

BBC News. (2019, August 31). South Africa policeman arrested over boxing champion’s murder. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-49537070Bcmda, & Bcmda. (2023, November 30). The Leighandre “Babe Lee” Jegels Recreational Park - Buffalo City Metropolitan Development Agency. Buffalo City Metropolitan Development Agency -. https://bcmda.org.za/the-leighandre-babe-lee-jegels-recreational-park/Chaput, M. (2019, September 12). Tears flow freely for champ ‘Baby Lee.’ The Herald. https://www.theherald.co.za/news/2019-09-12-tears-flow-freely-for-champ-baby-lee/Confronting South Africa’s crisis of Gender-Based violence. (2024, November 25). Human Rights Watch. https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/11/25/confronting-south-africas-crisis-gender-based-violenceCrime Desk. (2023, December 10). The Life and Tragic Murder of a Rising Boxing Star Killed in the Middle of Rush Hour Traffic. Medium. https://medium.com/@crimedesk/the-life-and-tragic-murder-of-a-rising-boxing-star-killed-in-the-middle-of-rush-hour-traffic-c2cf023a2ef6Fuzile, M. D. M. Z. a. B. (2019, August 31). EC world champion fighter shot dead. Daily Dispatch. https://www.dailydispatch.co.za/news/2019-08-31-e-cape-champion-boxer-shot-dead/#google_vignetteHauser, T. (2025, October 26). Women in boxing. Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/sports/boxing/Women-in-boxingInfluential moments in women’s boxing history. (n.d.). BOXRAW. https://boxraw.com/blogs/blog/influential-moments-in-womens-boxing-history?srsltid=AfmBOorbfAsDGqc1Tyu0Kajqdp_bDPo_wMaVrEG-G3J3tjLoDbFMA7qaJacob, B. (2019, September 1). ‘Baby Lee’ killing: witness tells all. Daily Dispatch. https://www.dailydispatch.co.za/news/2019-09-01-baby-lee-killing-witness-tells-all/Magasela, B. (2020, August 28). Jegels family struggles to accept EL boxer’s death a year on. Daily Dispatch. https://www.dailydispatch.co.za/news/2020-08-28-jegels-family-struggles-to-accept-el-boxers-death-a-year-on/Magasela, B., & Ndamase, M. (2019, September 3). Boxer Leighandre Jegels’s killer dies after car crash. Sowetan. https://www.sowetan.co.za/news/south-africa/2019-09-03-boxer-leighandre-jegelss-killer-dies-after-car-crash/Maphanga, C. (2019, September 15). “She will always be in our memories and our hearts” - SA boxing champ Leighandre “Baby Lee” Jegels laid to rest. News24. https://www.news24.com/she-will-always-be-in-our-memories-and-our-hearts-sa-boxing-champ-leighandre-baby-lee-jegels-laid-to-rest-20190915Mhlathi, Y. (2019, September 13). Leighandre’s parents speak out on daughters murder - SABC News - Breaking news, special reports, world,. SABC News - Breaking news, special reports, world, business, sport coverage of all South African current events. Africa\’s news leader. https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/leighandres-parents-speak-out-on-daughters-murder/Mokhine, P. (2016, June 30). Baby Lee eyes world glory. News24. https://www.news24.com/citypress/sport/baby-lee-eyes-world-glory-20160625Moreis, S. (2019, September 2). Man who shot and killed boxing champion Leighandre Jegels dies in hospital. News24. https://www.news24.com/southafrica/news/breaking-man-who-shot-and-killed-boxing-champion-leighandre-jegels-dies-in-hospital-20190902New report highlights the stark reality of gender-based violence in South Africa. (2024, December 10). Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation. https://www.dsti.gov.za/index.php/media-room/latest-news/4495-new-report-highlights-the-stark-reality-of-gender-based-violence-in-south-africaNgcobo, K. (2025, November 21). South Africa declares gender violence a national disaster after protests. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn979g302l9oRichardson, J. (2019, August 31). Policeman arrested for the murder of SA Boxing champion. The South African. https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/policeman-arrested-for-the-murder-of-sa-boxing-champion/The Associated Press. (2019, September 6). South Africa vows to fight violence against women after attacks. Richmond Times Dispatch, B2.Van Der Berg, C. (2019). “Baby Lee”: Such a sad, tragic, violent loss. IOL. https://iol.co.za/sport/opinion/2019-09-08-baby-lee-such-a-sad-tragic-violent-loss/




If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know! 
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at [email protected] with Case Suggestion in the subject line.

Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.

When renovation crews began digging beneath a small ice cream shop in Vienna, they didn’t expect to uncover a gruesome secret. What they found unraveled the double life of Estibaliz Carranza, a woman who hid two murders for years. Dubbed The Ice Lady of Austria, Establiz's crimes spun the media into a frenzy, especially when she was represented by the very same man who defended another of Austria's most notorious criminals. 

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You can find us at:
Instagram: @bookofthedeadpod
X: @bkofthedeadpod
Facebook: The Book of the Dead Podcast
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Or visit our website at www.botdpod.com


Adams, S. (2017, January 16). Infamous baby-obsessed “ice cream parlour murderer” is so dangerous she’ll be jailed with men not women. Daily Mirror. https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/infamous-baby-obsessed-ice-cream-9631172Arts - ISKCON - the Hare Krishna Movement. (n.d.). ISKCON - the Hare Krishna Movement. https://www.iskcon.org/about-us/what-is-iskcon.phpBBC News. (2012, November 22). “Ice cream” murder woman gets life sentence in Austria. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-20453491Bell, B. (2014, November 16). “Ice cream” killer Carranza publishing memoirs. BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-30056611Charter, D. (2014, November 17). One last scoop from ice cream parlour murders. The Times. https://www.thetimes.com/travel/inspiration/ski-holiday/one-last-scoop-from-ice-cream-parlour-murders-6p8s00c2j33Del Cabo/El Correo, A. (2012, November 22). La descuartizadora Estíbaliz Carranza era «amable y sumisa» con sus examantes. Diario ABC. https://www.abc.es/internacional/abci-descuartizadora-amable-sumisa-examantes-201211210000_noticia.html?ref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.abc.es%2Finternacional%2Fabci-descuartizadora-amable-sumisa-examantes-201211210000_noticia.htmlEspaña, L. N. (2011, June 13). La descuartizadora mataba por ira y dinero. La Nueva España. https://www.lne.es/sucesos/2011/06/13/descuartizadora-mataba-ira-dinero-21083577.htmlGhosh, S. (2017, January 18). Who is Estibaliz Carranza? Infamous “Ice Cream killer” being moved to All-Male prison in Austria. International Business Times. https://www.ibtimes.com/who-estibaliz-carranza-infamous-ice-cream-killer-being-moved-all-male-prison-austria-2476821“Ice lady” killer buried husband, lover in Vienna cellar. (2012, November 20). NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/ice-lady-killer-buried-husband-lover-vienna-cellar-flna1c7172322Jh. (2019, March 6). Scary True Stories: The ice-cream lady - J.H. Moncrieff. J.H. Moncrieff. https://www.jhmoncrieff.com/scary-true-stories-the-ice-cream-lady/Kazim, H. (2018, September 8). “Am I still beautiful?” DER SPIEGEL, Hamburg, Germany. https://www.spiegel.de/panorama/justiz/doppelmoerderin-estibaliz-carranza-buch-zelle-14-ueber-die-eislady-a-1226978.htmlKurier.At. (2014, November 14). Die Memoiren der Eislady. Kurier. https://kurier.at/chronik/wien/meine-zwei-leben-die-memoiren-der-eislady/97.062.087#google_vignettePayreder, M., & Peyerl, R. (2020, May 14). Das Geständnis der Estibaliz Carranza. Kurier. https://kurier.at/chronik/wien/das-gestaendnis-der-estibaliz-carranza/1.263.891#google_vignettePiggott, M. (2014, November 16). “Ice Cream Killer” Estibaliz Carranza Publishes Memoir Describing her Horrific Crimes. International Business Times UK. https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/ice-cream-killer-estibaliz-carranza-publishes-memoir-describing-her-horrific-crimes-1475063Prodhan, G. (2012, November 23). Austria’s “Ice Lady” gets life for double murder. Times Colonist, B9.Reuters. (2012, November 12). “Ice Lady” confesses in deaths of two men. The Leader Post, B9.Velkova, V. (2025, June 12). The Ice Cream Killer: The Chilling Story of Estibaliz Carranza. Medium. https://medium.com/@victoria.vlkva/the-ice-cream-killer-the-chilling-story-of-estibaliz-carranza-8d40c7581cc6

If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know! 
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at [email protected] with Case Suggestion in the subject line.

Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.

In 2019, 33-year-old tech startup founder Erin Valenti, was on a work trip in Silicon Valley. At the end of her trip, she called her parents, telling them she couldn't find her rental car, but they were concerned by the strange statements she was making.

"It's all a game, it's a thought experiment, we're in the Matrix."

A week later, her body was found in her rented car on the side of the road in San Jose, but there were no clear signs of physical harm, and her family was adamant she didn't struggle with any mental health problems or substance use disorders. The circumstances of her death have remained a mystery ever since. 

Thank you to The Final Trace for taking over after a death in my family.

Check out the podcast here!
The Final Trace is a true crime podcast unraveling the most chilling disappearances, cold cases, and solved mysteries that still leave us asking questions. Hosted by two friends with a passion for true crime, each episode explores the final known moments, forgotten clues, and the theories that keep us up at night.
From strange sightings to shocking conclusions, we follow the clues wherever they lead—because sometimes the scariest part isn’t the mystery… it’s the truth.



If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know! 
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at [email protected] with Case Suggestion in the subject line.

Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.

Two women. Two cities. Two tragedies that never made national headlines. Rosetta Jean-Baptiste was found dead in Ramsey in 1993; Michelle Lynn Howard’s body was discovered in Atlantic City almost a decade later. Today, I shed light on their stories, the mysterious circumstances of their deaths, and why their unsolved murders still matter.

If anyone has any information about Rosetta Jean-Baptiste's murder, you are urged to call the Bergen County Cold Case Unit at 201-646-2300 or at 201-642-5962. You can also email them at [email protected].

Anyone with information about the murder of Michelle Howard is asked to call the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office at 609-909-7800, or you can submit a tip at their website www.acpo.org/tips. You can also call Crime Stoppers at 609-652-1234 or 1-800-658-8477 or go to their website www.crimestoppersatlantic.com

Connect with us on Social Media!
You can find us at:
Instagram: @bookofthedeadpod
X: @bkofthedeadpod
Facebook: The Book of the Dead Podcast
TikTok: Bookofthedeadpod
Or visit our website at www.botdpod.com

Featuring a promo for Autumn's Oddities:
If it's creepy and weird, you'll find it here! This is a podcast for the strange and unusual, made by the strange and unusual.

Accept no substitutes!
Listen here

Davis, E. (2020, November 30). Atlantic County prosecutor asks for help with 19-year old murder case. WPG Talk Radio 95.5 FM. https://wpgtalkradio.com/atlantic-county-prosecutor-asks-for-help-with-19-year-old-murder-case/DeMarco, J. (2021, August 7). COLD CASE: Killer Of Rockland Teen In Notorious Bergen Motel Got Away, Is He Around Today? Daily Voice. https://dailyvoice.com/new-jersey/mahwah/news/cold-case-killer-of-rockland-teen-in-notorious-bergen-motel-got-away-is-he-around-today/814120/McAleer, P. (2001a, November 29). “I just want them. . . caught,” victim’s brother says. Press of Atlantic City, C1–C6.McAleer, P. (2001b, December 28). A.C. woman’s slaying remains a mystery. Press of Atlantic City, C1.Miranda, C. O. (n.d.). Haiti and the United States during the 1980s and 1990s: refugees, immigration, and foreign policy. Digital USD. https://digital.sandiego.edu/sdlr/vol32/iss3/2/Murdered: Michelle Howard | Atlantic City, NJ | Uncovered. (n.d.). https://uncovered.com/cases/michelle-howard#timelineNew Jersey officials issue new plea for information in 2001 murder of Michelle Howard. (2020, November 30). NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline/daughter-fights-justice-19-years-after-mother-was-murdered-body-n1249187Press Staff Reports. (2001, November 28). Police ID woman found dead in Mizpah. Press of Atlantic City, C4.ROSETTA JEAN-BAPTISTE HOMICIDE. (n.d.). In Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office. https://www.bcpo.net/rosetta-jean-baptiste/Rosette Jean-Baptiste (1975-1993) - Find a grave. . . (1975, June 22). https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/158700874/rosette-jean-baptisteSamuels, M. (2021, August 6). Surveillance Video Released In 'Cold Blooded' Teaneck Killing. Teaneck, NJ Patch. https://patch.com/new-jersey/teaneck/surveillance-video-released-cold-blooded-2010-teaneck-murderTowner, C., & Towner, C. (2025, February 25). Rosette Jean-Baptiste killed in Ramsey New Jersey - City Towner. City Towner - Travel, History & True Crime Blog. https://citytowner.com/rosette-jean-baptiste-ramsey-nj/

If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know! 
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at [email protected] with Case Suggestion in the subject line.

Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.

Welcome to The Crypt, where our Crypt Keeper awaits to bring you tales fit for a dark and scary Halloween night. From legends of witches and ghost ships, to the stories of recent memory's most horrific real-life killers, there's plenty to set the mood for a frightful holiday. Featuring some of Darkcast Network's best, we've come together to ring in the season.

Grab your candy, take a seat, and settle in for tales from The Darkcast Crypt Keeper. 


Podcasts Featured:

Rainbow Crimes
The Final Trace
Missing in the PNW
The Book of the Dead
Mythical True Crime
Pod of Terror
Murder in the PNW
Day By Day
Rogue Darkness
Tragedy With A View
The Bell Witch Podcast

If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know! 
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at [email protected] with Case Suggestion in the subject line.

Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.

When it comes to John Carpenter's iconic franchise, Halloween, most people may be familiar, in the abstract, with the name Moustapha Akkad as his name is the first to appear in the opening credits for every movie. What fans of the series may not be familiar with is how integral Moustapha was to bringing the story of Michael Myers to life, producing all 8 original movies, even after John Carpenter, himself, left the series. 

To celebrate Halloween, Brian Santana joins me to talk about the life of Moustapha Akkad, the man born to a customs officer in Syria, who came to Hollywood to bring the story of Islam to life on the big screen. From his movie, The Message, to becoming the silent force behind one of the horror genre's greatest franchises, Moustapha Akkad's life was rich with creativity until his violent death at the hands of suicide bombers in Amman, Jordan. This is the story of his life and his enduring legacy, honoring the man who was so pivotal in making Michael Myers and the season what it is today. 


Get A Murder On Campus: The Professor, The Cop, and North Carolina's Most Notorious Cold Case here

Check out Chapter 91 with Brian and Cameron Santana here

Check out Chapter 105: Summer's Almost Gone with Brian Santana and J.T. Townsend here

Check out Chapter 114: The Devil in the Details-The Unsolved Death of Jeannette DePalma w/ Brian Santana here

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X: @bkofthedeadpod
Facebook: The Book of the Dead Podcast
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Or visit our website at www.botdpod.com

Akkad, Moustapha (1930–2005) | Encyclopedia.com. (n.d.). https://www.encyclopedia.com/international/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/akkad-moustapha-1930-2005Al-Atraqchi, F. (2007, September 2). Halloween producer’s epic plan. Al Jazeera. https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2007/9/2/halloween-producers-epic-planBrayson, J. (2018, October 18). Who is Moustapha Akkad? ‘Halloween’ is dedicated to someone who shaped the franchise. Bustle. https://www.bustle.com/p/who-is-moustapha-akkad-halloween-is-dedicated-to-someone-who-shaped-the-franchise-12576403CNN.com - Jordan confirms al Qaeda behind hotel blasts - Nov 12, 2005. (n.d.). https://web.archive.org/web/20080527142122/http://www.cnn.com/2005/WORLD/meast/11/12/jordan.blasts/index.htmlCole, J. (2005, November 15). Strange death of Moustapha Akkad. Informed Comment. https://www.juancole.com/2005/11/strange-death-of-moustapha-akkad.htmlDossey, E. (2018, November 6). No Sleep October: The Halloween Franchise - Midwest Film Journal. Midwest Film Journal. https://midwestfilmjournal.com/2018/10/31/no-sleep-october-the-halloween-franchise/Film Comment. (2017, January 19). Keeping the faith. https://www.filmcomment.com/article/moustapha-akkad/Hollywood producer, daughter died in bombing. (2005, November 11). NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna10002363Mattar, S. (2005, November 5). “Halloween” Producer Akkad Dies in Jordan. Backstage. https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/halloween-producer-akkad-dies-jordan-38743/Moustapha Akkad - Arab America. (2015, June 2). Arab America. https://www.arabamerica.com/arabamericans/moustapha-akkad/Nov 12, 2005, page 42 - The Pantagraph at Newspapers.com. (n.d.). Newspapers.com. https://www.newspapers.com/image/75766674/?match=1&terms=moustapha%20akkadO’Scannlain, D. F. (2015). BOYER v. CHAPPELL. In United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. https://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2015/07/16/13-99006.pdfPeople v. Boyer -  S029476 - Thu, 05/11/2006 | California Supreme Court Resources. (n.d.). https://scocal.stanford.edu/opinion/people-v-boyer-33625People v. Boyer (1989). (n.d.). Justia Law. https://law.justia.com/cases/california/supreme-court/3d/48/247.htmlSpinner, J. (2005, November 15). Motive Glimpsed in Jordan Attack. The Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/11/14/AR2005111400230.htmlTCF Staff. (2005, November 9). Deadly Bombings Hit Jordan. The Street. https://www.thestreet.com/personal-finance/deadly-bombings-hit-jordan-10252100The Associated Press. (2005a, November 12). Moustapha Akkad, 75, producer of “Halloween” films. Asbury Park Press, A13.The Associated Press. (2005b, November 12). Moustapha Akkad, 75, Who Produced Religious and Horror Films, Is Dead. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2005/11/12/obituaries/moustapha-akkad-75-who-produced-religious-and-horror-films-is.htmlThompson, S. (2020, October 18). Inside the legacy of the Multimillion-Dollar ‘Halloween’ franchise as the original returns to theaters. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/simonthompson/2020/10/18/inside-the-legacy-of-the-multimillion-dollar-halloween-franchise-as-the-original-returns-to-theaters/Tüfekçi̇, A. (2020, November 25). Understanding Moustapha Akkad through ‘The Message’ he left. Daily Sabah. https://www.dailysabah.com/arts/cinema/understanding-moustapha-akkad-through-the-message-he-leftTwair, S. (2009, August 31). Moustapha Akkad (1933-2005). Washington Report on Middle East Affairs. https://www.wrmea.org/2006-january-february/moustapha-akkad-1933-2005.htmlVoa. (2009, October 30). Arab-American filmmaker Mustafa Al Akkad Killed in Jordan Terrorist Attack. Voice of America. https://www.voanews.com/a/a-13-2005-11-18-voa23/391281.html

If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know! 
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at [email protected] with Case Suggestion in the subject line.

Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.

“It can’t rain all the time.”

Those words became immortal the day Brandon Lee brought The Crow to life and lost his own in the process. Born to a martial arts legend, Brandon Lee was poised for stardom, carving out a name for himself outside of his father's shadow, but fate had other ideas when a tragic accident occurred on set,  and The Crow, a dark and gothic thriller, would become both his final film and his legacy.

After 30 years, The Crow has immortalized Brandon Lee in its haunting story of Eric Draven, risen from the dead seeking retribution, but his death also created another legacy, one that changed the way Hollywood would operate to keep casts and crews safe. 


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You can find us at:
Instagram: @bookofthedeadpod
X: @bkofthedeadpod
Facebook: The Book of the Dead Podcast
TikTok: Bookofthedeadpod
Or visit our website at www.botdpod.com

Featuring a promo for Missing in the PNW:
The Pacific Northwest is known for it's beautiful coastline, green interior, rainy weather, and spectacular mountains, but because of all of this it's also the perfect place to go missing.

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Ashurst, S. (2019a, May 15). ‘John Wick 3’ director Chad Stahelski opens up about Brandon Lee’s tragic death on “The Crow.” Yahoo Movies UK via Yahoo Entertainment. https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/john-wick-3-director-chad-stahelski-opens-brandon-lees-tragic-death-crow-142644256.html?guccounter=1Ashurst, S. (2019b, May 15). ‘John Wick 3’ director Chad Stahelski opens up about Brandon Lee’s tragic death on “The Crow.” Yahoo Movies UK via Yahoo Entertainment. https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/john-wick-3-director-chad-stahelski-opens-brandon-lees-tragic-death-crow-142644256.html?guccounter=1Boyle, P. (2019, July 16). Brandon Lee Apparently Killed by .44 Bullet : Movies: Even after autopsy finding, North Carolina police are still treating the actor’s death as accidental. - Los Angeles Times. Los Angeles Times. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1993-04-02-ca-18323-story.htmlBrandon Lee. (n.d.-a). The Movie Database. https://www.themoviedb.org/person/57700-brandon-lee?language=en-USBrandon Lee. (n.d.-b). The Movie Database. https://www.themoviedb.org/person/57700-brandon-lee?language=en-USBruce Lee — Bruce Lee. (n.d.). Bruce Lee. https://brucelee.com/bruce-leeFate’s Children: Bruce and Brandon. (1993, May 3). The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/1993/05/02/archives/fates-children-bruce-and-brandon.htmlHarris, M. (2021, October 22). The brief life and unnecessary death of Brandon Lee. EW.com. https://ew.com/article/1993/04/16/brief-life-and-unnecessary-death-brandon-lee/Heching, D. (2021, October 26). Eliza Hutton Breaks Silence 28 Years After Fiancé Brandon Lee's Death in the Wake of 'Rust' Shooting. People.com. https://people.com/movies/eliza-hutton-breaks-silence-28-years-after-fiance-brandon-lees-death-in-the-wake-of-rust-shooting/IMDb. (n.d.). Brandon Lee. IMDb. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000488/bio/?ref_=nm_ov_bio_smJensen, E. (2024, August 23). The tragic true story of how Brandon Lee died on “The Crow” movie set in 1993. USA TODAY. https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/movies/2024/08/23/the-crow-1994-brandon-lee-death-explained/74858461007/No Charges Filed in Actor’s Death During Filming. (1993, September 6). The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/1993/09/06/us/no-charges-filed-in-actor-s-death-during-filming.htmlRemembering Brandon Lee (1965-1993). (2025, January 1). Flasz on Film. https://flaszonfilm.com/2023/03/31/remembering-brandon-lee-1965-1993/The Associated Press. (1993a, April 1). Actor dies after accident in filming. Winston-Salem Journal, 30.The Associated Press. (1993b, April 1). Brandon Lee’s death followed series of mishaps on movie set. The Salisbury Post, 5A.The Crow movie review & film summary (1994) | Roger Ebert. (1994, May 13). Roger Ebert. https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/the-crow-1994Van Horn, S. (2024, March 24). How “The Crow” was completed after Brandon Lee’s death. Collider. https://collider.com/the-crow-production-brandon-lee/Year of the Dragon, 2025 & 2026 Horoscope of Chinese Zodiac Dragon. (n.d.). https://www.travelchinaguide.com/intro/social_customs/zodiac/dragon.htm?srsltid=AfmBOoohsHN9nEf8PO2NFG_9Z1sUhMiP9S-px25xQ6L-R5h038Od5EBa

If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know! 
If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at [email protected] with Case Suggestion in the subject line.

Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.