The death of 19-year-old nursing student Stephen Smith has haunted South Carolina for nearly a decade — but with new national attention from the Hulu Murdaugh series, the truth about what happened to him is finally back in the spotlight.

In tonight’s Hidden Killers deep-dive, Tony Brueski breaks down the real story behind the case: the strange crime scene, the contradictions in early investigative reports, the forensic inconsistencies that never should’ve been ignored, and the long-buried leads that investigators are only now pursuing.

We walk through Stephen’s final night, the discovery of his body on a remote rural road, and the major red flags that made troopers question the hit-and-run narrative from day one. We also address — directly and responsibly — the long-circulating rumors involving the Murdaugh name, explaining what was speculation, what investigators actually found, and why SLED says there is no evidence tying the family to Stephen’s death.

More importantly, we highlight the real investigative leads resurfacing today: individuals who made suspicious statements in 2015, inconsistencies in witness accounts, and the newly reclassified finding that Stephen’s death was a homicide, not an accident. With a grand jury working behind the scenes and national pressure mounting, the case is closer to answers than it has ever been.

Stephen Smith was more than a rumor in a small Southern county. He was a son, a brother, a friend — a teenager with dreams of becoming a nurse — and someone out there knows exactly what happened to him.

If you’re here for real reporting, grounded analysis, and a breakdown that cuts through the noise, you’re in the right place.

#StephenSmith #MurdaughCase #TrueCrime #HiddenKillers #JusticeForStephen #SouthCarolinaCrime #ColdCase #Investigation #TonyBrueski #TrueCrimeCommunity

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/

Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspod

X Twitter https://x.com/tonybpod

Listen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872

This is the " The Year in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this year's most compelling headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that have dominated the news.

 

 This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.

 

 Throughout the past year, we've followed and dissected cases such as P. Diddy, Karen Read, Scott Peterson, Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrand, the Delphi Murders, Kouri Richins, Bryan Kohberger, Rex Heuermann, Alex Murdaugh, Chad and Lori Daybell, and the Adelson family. Each episode navigates through these stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.

 

 Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime, or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "The Year in Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj

The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

This is the " The Year in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this year's most compelling headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that have dominated the news.

 

 This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.

 

 Throughout the past year, we've followed and dissected cases such as P. Diddy, Karen Read, Scott Peterson, Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrand, the Delphi Murders, Kouri Richins, Bryan Kohberger, Rex Heuermann, Alex Murdaugh, Chad and Lori Daybell, and the Adelson family. Each episode navigates through these stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.

 

 Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime, or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "The Year in Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.

 Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj

The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com 

In this episode of "Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski," guest Eric Faddis, a former felony prosecutor and defense attorney, discusses the recent lawsuit filed by Buster Murdaugh. Buster is suing Warner Media, Netflix, and others for defamatory content linking him to the murder of Stephen Smith. The investigation into Smith's death was reopened during the trial of Buster's father, Alex Murdaugh, due to undisclosed evidence. While Buster has denied any involvement in Smith's murder, public and media speculation persists. Faddis explores the motivations behind Buster's lawsuit, the potential consequences of the legal action, and the complexities of seeking justice for Stephen Smith. They discuss how the discovery process in the lawsuit might uncover new evidence, possibly exonerating Buster or pointing to alternative suspects. Faddis notes the high stakes and risks involved in pursuing such a lawsuit, including the possibility of revealing uncomfortable details about Buster and his family's dealings. The conversation underscores the broader implications of the case and the ongoing quest for truth and justice in the Stephen Smith investigation.

- Buster Murdaugh filed a lawsuit against Warner Media, Netflix, and others for defamatory content.

- Investigation into Stephen Smith's death was reopened during Alex Murdaugh's trial due to new evidence.

- Buster Murdaugh denies any involvement in Stephen Smith's murder.

- Public and media speculation continues to associate Buster with the case.

- The discovery process in the lawsuit might uncover new evidence related to Stephen Smith's death.

- Risks of the lawsuit include potential revelations about Buster and his family's activities.

- The case highlights the complexities of seeking justice for Stephen Smith and the potential impacts on Buster Murdaugh's reputation.

### Hashtags:

#BusterMurdaugh #AlexMurdaugh #StephenSmith #EricFaddis #DefamationLawsuit #JusticeForStephenSmith #TrueCrime

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj

The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

In this episode of "Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski," defense attorney Bob Motta discusses Buster Murdaugh's lawsuit against Warner Media, Netflix, and others for accusing him of involvement in the death of Stephen Smith in their documentaries. Motta defends Buster, arguing that he's a victim of his family's dark legacy, particularly his father Alex Murdaugh's crimes. Motta finds the accusations against Buster baseless and likens them to the unfounded allegations against Victoria Heuermann. He suggests that the lawsuit could uncover more information about Stephen Smith's murder through depositions, which provide civil attorneys with greater leeway to question witnesses than criminal investigations. Motta hopes the suit will clear Buster's name and refocus the investigation on finding the true culprit.

- Buster Murdaugh is suing Warner Media, Netflix, and others for accusing him of involvement in Stephen Smith's death.

- Bob Motta argues that Buster is a victim of his father's crimes and the accusations against him are baseless.

- Motta compares the baseless accusations against Buster to those against Victoria Heuermann.

- The lawsuit might aid the investigation into Stephen Smith's murder through depositions.

- Civil attorneys have more leeway in depositions than criminal investigators.

- Motta hopes the lawsuit will clear Buster's name and help find the true culprit behind Stephen Smith's death.

### Hashtags

#BusterMurdaugh #StephenSmith #KarenRead #AlexMurdaugh #HiddenKillers #DefenseDiaries #BobMotta

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj

The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

In the latest episode of "Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski," psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott discusses Buster Murdaugh's decision to file a lawsuit against WarnerMedia, Netflix, and other entities for their portrayal of him in documentaries related to his father's crimes. Buster, son of disgraced attorney Alex Murdaugh, has been implicated in the murder of Stephen Smith without solid evidence. Scott shares her thoughts on the ethical concerns surrounding Buster's portrayal and the potential impact of the lawsuit. She emphasizes that while Buster's move might bring personal relief, it could also reignite public interest and scrutiny. The conversation touches on the possibility that the lawsuit might lead to new information about Stephen Smith's murder, hoping for justice for the real perpetrator. Scott also speculates on whether Alex Murdaugh might be influencing these decisions from prison, highlighting the ongoing intrigue surrounding the Murdaugh family saga.

**Main Points:**

- Buster Murdaugh is suing WarnerMedia, Netflix, and others for their portrayal of him in documentaries.

- Buster has been implicated in Stephen Smith's murder without substantial evidence.

- Shavaun Scott discusses the ethical concerns of Buster's portrayal and the potential impacts of the lawsuit.

- The lawsuit might bring personal relief to Buster but could also reignite public interest.

- There is hope that the lawsuit might lead to new information about Stephen Smith's murder.

- The discussion speculates on Alex Murdaugh's potential influence from prison.

- The Murdaugh family saga continues to captivate public interest.

**Hashtags:**

#HiddenKillersWithTonyBrueski #ShavaunScott #BusterMurdaugh #AlexMurdaugh #StephenSmith #WarnerMedia #Netflix

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj

The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

In this episode of "Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski," retired FBI Special Agent Robin Dreeke discusses the complexities surrounding the reopened investigation into Stephen Smith's death, which coincided with the high-profile trial of Alex Murdaugh. Buster Murdaugh, who denies any involvement in Smith's death, is now suing Warner Media and other outlets for defamation, claiming the accusations have tarnished his name. Dreeke highlights the concept of "lifestyle leakage," where family behaviors and values impact individuals, suggesting Buster’s actions are influenced by his father's combative nature. The lawsuit may open Pandora's box, potentially revealing more about the Murdaugh family’s dealings. Dreeke points out that while the lawsuit could tarnish Buster’s reputation further, it might also unearth new evidence in Stephen Smith’s case, ultimately aiding the pursuit of justice for his family. The media's credibility and the investigative rigor behind their claims will be crucial as this legal battle unfolds.

- Stephen Smith's case was reopened during Alex Murdaugh's trial.

- Buster Murdaugh denies involvement in Stephen Smith's death and is suing media outlets.

- Robin Dreeke discusses "lifestyle leakage" and how family behaviors influence actions.

- The lawsuit might bring more scrutiny and potentially reveal new information about the Murdaugh family.

- Media credibility and careful reporting are emphasized as critical in such cases.

- The legal battle could impact both Buster Murdaugh and the media outlets involved significantly.

- The lawsuit may help in the ongoing investigation into Stephen Smith's death, potentially offering closure for his family.

### Hashtags:

#HiddenKillers #TonyBrueski #RobinDreeke #AlexMurdaugh #BusterMurdaugh #StephenSmith #TrueCrime

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj

The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Buster Murdaugh Sues Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery Over Defamation in Stephen Smith Case Documentaries

Buster Murdaugh, son of convicted murderer and fraudster Alex Murdaugh, has filed a defamation lawsuit against Netflix, Warner Bros. Discovery, and several other parties. The suit, lodged in the Court of Common Pleas in Hampton County, South Carolina, claims that the documentaries "Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal," "Murdaugh Murders: A Deadly Dynasty," and "Low Country: The Murdaugh Dynasty" wrongfully implicated him in the 2015 death of 19-year-old Stephen Smith.

The lawsuit, filed last Friday, also names Gannett, the publisher of the Hampton County Guardian, the newspaper’s editor, Michael Dewitt, Jr., and the production companies behind the documentaries. Murdaugh argues that the defendants defamed him by subtly or explicitly suggesting his involvement in Smith's death.

Buster Murdaugh, who testified at his father’s trial regarding the shock of his mother, Margaret “Maggie” Murdaugh, and younger brother, Paul Murdaugh, being shot in June 2021, categorically denied any involvement in Stephen Smith’s death. "I have tried my best to ignore the vicious rumors about my involvement in Stephen Smith’s tragic death that continue to be published in the media as I grieve over the brutal murders of my mother and brother," Buster stated in 2023.

Smith, an openly gay teenager and former classmate of Murdaugh, was found dead from a blow to the forehead, which an independent autopsy confirmed was likely from a hit-and-run. Despite these findings, Murdaugh claims the documentaries falsely portrayed him as Smith’s murderer. The lawsuit highlights a particular 10-minute segment from one series that alluded to Murdaugh as the killer.

Murdaugh's complaint describes the documentaries as containing false statements that suggest he murdered Smith with a baseball bat in an anti-gay hate crime. It also disputes any romantic relationship between Murdaugh and Smith. "These statements are untrue in their entirety," the complaint reads.

Eric Bland, the attorney for Stephen Smith’s family, criticized the lawsuit, predicting it would backfire. Bland noted that the powerful entities named in the suit would likely fight vigorously and might unearth further details damaging to Murdaugh.

"Buster will have to answer questions in a multi-day deposition from every single defendant," Bland said, emphasizing the extensive questioning Murdaugh would face regarding his relationship with Smith and knowledge of his death. Bland also pointed out that Buster’s name appeared multiple times in the investigative file released by the South Carolina Highway Patrol in 2021.

Buster Murdaugh seeks to clear his name of what he calls "baseless," "false," and "defamatory" accusations while offering condolences to Smith’s family. The outcome of this high-profile legal battle remains to be seen.

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj

The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

The Murdaugh family saga continues to unfold as Richard Alexander "Buster" Murdaugh, Jr., the eldest son of Alex Murdaugh, has filed a defamation lawsuit against several media groups. Buster alleges that various movies, documentaries, and newspaper articles falsely implicated him in the 2015 murder of Stephen Smith, causing significant damage to his reputation and mental well-being.

On July 8, 2015, Stephen Smith's car ran out of gas along a rural road in Hampton County. Smith began walking along the road and was allegedly struck by a vehicle part, leading to his death. Despite media speculation, Buster Murdaugh has not been notified by law enforcement of any connection to Smith's case.

The lawsuit, filed in Hampton County, names Netflix; Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.; Warner Media Entertainment Pages, Inc.; their production companies Blackfin, Inc.; Campfire Studios Inc.; The Cinemart LLC; and Gannett Co., the publisher of The Hampton County Guardian, along with reporter and editor Michael M Dewitt, Jr., as defendants.

Buster's legal complaint alleges that the media portrayals have "irreparably damaged" his reputation and caused him "mental anguish." He seeks both actual and punitive damages, accusing the media entities of reckless conduct in falsely implicating him in the murder.

"These false allegations have caused significant harm to Buster's reputation and mental health," the lawsuit states. "He has suffered mental anguish as a result of the reckless conduct of the Defendants."

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) reopened Stephen Smith's case, classifying it as a homicide in March 2023. Despite the ongoing investigation, Buster has maintained that he has not been informed of any involvement by law enforcement.

"Buster Murdaugh has been unfairly and falsely portrayed by these media outlets," said his attorney. "The defendants acted recklessly, without regard for the truth, and have caused irreparable harm to my client's reputation and mental well-being."

The media series and articles in question have drawn significant attention, further entrenching public interest in the Murdaugh family's legal troubles. The Murdaughs have been the focus of extensive media coverage following the high-profile trial of Alex Murdaugh and subsequent legal developments.

Buster's lawsuit specifically calls out the series "Murdaugh Murders: Deadly Dynasty," "Low Country: The Murdaugh Dynasty," and "Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal," alleging that these productions presented misleading information that falsely implicated him in Stephen Smith's death. The complaint also targets articles published in The Hampton County Guardian for perpetuating these allegations.

"The media's portrayal of Buster Murdaugh in relation to Stephen Smith's murder has been both inaccurate and damaging," the lawsuit claims. "This reckless behavior has resulted in significant personal and emotional distress."

As the legal battle unfolds, the Murdaugh family continues to be under intense scrutiny, with Buster's lawsuit adding another layer to the complex narrative. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for how the media covers ongoing legal investigations and the responsibilities they hold in reporting on high-profile cases.

The lawsuit highlights the ongoing impact of media coverage on individuals involved in or connected to widely publicized legal cases, raising questions about the balance between public interest and the potential for defamation.

Buster Murdaugh's quest for justice in the court of law underscores the broader issues of media accountability and the protection of individual reputations in the digital age. As this case progresses, it will be closely watched by legal experts, media professionals, and the public alike.

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj

The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

As we approach the year's end, relive the most riveting moments of the Alex Murdaugh murder trial through the lens of True Crime Today. Your host, Tony Brueski, has brought you unparalleled coverage, taking you deep into the heart of this high-profile case, hour by hour.

Throughout the year, we've left no stone unturned, ensuring you didn't miss a single detail as first-degree murder charges hung over Alex Murdaugh, casting a dark shadow over the tragic deaths of his wife and son. The courtroom drama unfolded before your ears, providing an immersive and captivating experience unlike any other.

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj

Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com