River City Mystery - Exploring the darker corners of Indiana, Illinois, and Kentucky

The Murder of Doris McDonough

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This episode delves into the tragic and unsolved murder of 36-year-old Doris McDonough, a wife and mother who was brutally killed in her Evansville, Indiana, home on October 3, 1968.

Here's a summary of the key details discussed in the episode:

  • The Brutal Crime Scene: Learn about the horrific discovery of Doris' body in her kitchen, detailing the severe head, face, neck, and back trauma she sustained from being beaten with a heavy, blunt object. [00:43], [00:48]
  • Initial Investigation Details: Understand the initial confusion of investigators who first suspected a shooting, only to discover through the autopsy that Doris was beaten to death. The presence of a struggle and towels wrapped around her head wounds are also highlighted. [03:34]
  • The Missing Hammer: The episode points out the significant detail of a missing claw hammer from the McDonough residence, which investigators theorized could have been the murder weapon. [04:30]
  • Husband's Account and Timeline: In this episode, we meticulously examine the detailed timeline provided by Doris' husband, William McDonough, to the Evansville Press just eight days after the murder, outlining his activities on the day of the crime. [08:04]
  • Inconsistencies and Suspicious Elements: Matt critically analyzes William's timeline, drawing attention to certain inconsistencies and odd explanations, such as the timing of his visits and the reason given for leaving the back door unlocked. [13:55]
  • A Case Gone Cold: Despite the initial investigation and scrutiny of the evidence, the episode underscores the fact that no one was ever charged in Doris McDonough's murder, and the case remains unsolved to this day. [07:13]
  • Research Sources: The host acknowledges and credits "The Bones of Autumn" from Reddit and her book, "Unsolved Indiana Murder Mysteries, Bizarre Deaths and Unexplained Disappearances," as key sources for the information presented in the episode. [07:22]

    • Show Notes: https://www.rivercitymystery.com/7

    Join the River City Mystery Discord channel to meet others from the tri-state area who are into true crime and the paranormal.  https://www.rivercitymystery.com/discord

    Unsolved Indiana: Murder Mysteries, Bizarre Deaths, & Unexplained Disappearances by Autumn Bones

    The Bones of Autumn – Reddit

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    River City Mystery - Exploring the darker corners of Indiana, Illinois, and KentuckyBy Matt Deig
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