Voices Against Filicide

In this episode, Hope revisits one of the most heartbreaking missing children cases in recent history: the disappearance of the Skelton brothers — Andrew, Alexander, and Tanner — who vanished over Thanksgiving weekend in 2010. Host Hope Hooton walks listeners through the chilling timeline leading up to their disappearance, the deeply troubled family situation surrounding the case, and the emotional aftermath that has lingered for more than a decade. Recently, a major development has shaken the case: new murder charges filed against the boys’ father, John Skelton. This episode explores what these charges mean, how we arrived here, and why continued awareness is critical. You’ll hear about:

• The last known days before the boys went missing
• The complicated family dynamics and contradictory accounts
• How the community mobilized and continues to honor the boys
• The family's enduring pain and unwavering hope
• The significance of the newly filed charges and the impact on the investigation

This episode is both a remembrance and a call to action.
We urge listeners to share this story, keep the memory of Andrew, Alexander, and Tanner alive, and continue spreading awareness. Anyone with information, no matter how small it may seem, is encouraged to come forward. Because their names — and their story — should never be forgotten.

TRIGGER WARNING 
This podcast contains deeply disturbing content, including firsthand accounts from parents and family members who have lost children to familicide—the murder of a child by a parent or caregiver. The stories are raw, emotional, and include details of immense loss, system failures, and trauma. Listeners are advised to take care, and may pause or stop the podcast if needed.

Connect with Hope Hooton:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hope_in_the_pain/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hope.in.the.pain
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Hopeinthepain

Website: voicesagainstfilicide.odoo.com 

Support & Subscribe:
If you found this episode meaningful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this podcast to amplify the stories of those who can no longer speak for themselves.

Voices Against Filicide Merch Shop:
https://momcast-productions.myspreadshop.com/

The Rowan Project:
https://therowanproject.org/

Production Credits:
Written, Researched, and Hosted by: Hope Hooton
Produced & Edited by: Rachel Holloway
A Momcast Production

Voices Against Filicide is a part of Momcast Production LLC. All content, including but not limited to audio, written materials, and visual assets, are protected under copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution of this content is strictly prohibited. © 2024 Momcast Production LLC. All rights reserved.

In today's episode, Hope Hooton, a mother and advocate, shares raw and emotional firsthand accounts of families impacted by the murder of children by parents or caregivers. This episode recounts the tragic events of September 11, 2025, in Port Huron, Michigan, where three siblings, Kayleb, Bentley, and Kinzley, were shot by their father, Jeffrey James Smerer. Kayleb did not survive, while Bentley and Kinzley sustained severe injuries. The podcast urges for better mental health services and child protection reforms while honoring these children's stories and lives. The community has rallied in support, and listeners are called to action to help the affected family.


GoFundMe:
https://gofund.me/0e3e490dc

Sources:
https://www.fox2detroit.com/news/port-huron-dad-kills-son-injures-two-other-children-early-morning-shooting

https://www.wxyz.com/news/family-of-port-huron-teens-killed-injured-speaks-out-father-in-custody



TRIGGER WARNING 
This podcast contains deeply disturbing content, including firsthand accounts from parents and family members who have lost children to familicide—the murder of a child by a parent or caregiver. The stories are raw, emotional, and include details of immense loss, system failures, and trauma. Listeners are advised to take care, and may pause or stop the podcast if needed.

Connect with Hope Hooton:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hope_in_the_pain/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hope.in.the.pain
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Hopeinthepain

Website: voicesagainstfilicide.odoo.com 

Support & Subscribe:
If you found this episode meaningful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this podcast to amplify the stories of those who can no longer speak for themselves.

Voices Against Filicide Merch Shop:
https://momcast-productions.myspreadshop.com/

The Rowan Project:
https://therowanproject.org/

Production Credits:
Written, Researched, and Hosted by: Hope Hooton
Produced & Edited by: Rachel Holloway
A Momcast Production

Voices Against Filicide is a part of Momcast Production LLC. All content, including but not limited to audio, written materials, and visual assets, are protected under copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution of this content is strictly prohibited. © 2024 Momcast Production LLC. All rights reserved.

In this deeply emotional episode of 'Voices Against Filicide,' host Hope Hooton shares her personal journey of abuse and unimaginable loss, honoring her late children Alec and Lydia. Hope delves into the cycle of abuse, learned helplessness, codependency, and the dangerous link between domestic violence and filicide. Offering vital resources and practical advice, this episode seeks to empower and assist those trapped in abusive situations to find safety and support. Trigger warning: this episode contains raw and distressing content.


TRIGGER WARNING 
This podcast contains deeply disturbing content, including firsthand accounts from parents and family members who have lost children to familicide—the murder of a child by a parent or caregiver. The stories are raw, emotional, and include details of immense loss, system failures, and trauma. Listeners are advised to take care, and may pause or stop the podcast if needed.

Connect with Hope Hooton:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hope_in_the_pain/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hope.in.the.pain
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Hopeinthepain

Website: voicesagainstfilicide.odoo.com 

Support & Subscribe:
If you found this episode meaningful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this podcast to amplify the stories of those who can no longer speak for themselves.

Voices Against Filicide Merch Shop:
https://momcast-productions.myspreadshop.com/

Production Credits:
Written, Researched, and Hosted by: Hope Hooton
Produced & Edited by: Rachel Holloway
A Momcast Production

Voices Against Filicide is a part of Momcast Production LLC. All content, including but not limited to audio, written materials, and visual assets, are protected under copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution of this content is strictly prohibited. © 2024 Momcast Production LLC. All rights reserved.

In this deeply emotional episode of 'Voices Against Filicie,' host Hope Hooton, who has personally experienced the tragedy of losing her children Alec and Lydia to filicide, welcomes her long-time friend, Lauren Webb.

Together, they discuss their lifelong friendship, the unimaginable loss of Alec and Lydia, and the red flags in Hope's marriage that preceded the tragedy. They also talk about their efforts to raise awareness about filicide, the support systems they've leaned on, and the importance of community and advocacy in the face of such devastating loss.

Listeners are reminded of the pressing need for systemic change to prevent similar tragedies and are provided with valuable resources for grief and support.



TRIGGER WARNING 
This podcast contains deeply disturbing content, including firsthand accounts from parents and family members who have lost children to familicide—the murder of a child by a parent or caregiver. The stories are raw, emotional, and include details of immense loss, system failures, and trauma. Listeners are advised to take care, and may pause or stop the podcast if needed.

Connect with Hope Hooton:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hope_in_the_pain/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hope.in.the.pain
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Hopeinthepain

Website: voicesagainstfilicide.odoo.com 

Support & Subscribe:
If you found this episode meaningful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this podcast to amplify the stories of those who can no longer speak for themselves.

Voices Against Filicide Merch Shop:
https://momcast-productions.myspreadshop.com/

Production Credits:
Written, Researched, and Hosted by: Hope Hooton
Produced & Edited by: Rachel Holloway
A Momcast Production

Voices Against Filicide is a part of Momcast Production LLC. All content, including but not limited to audio, written materials, and visual assets, are protected under copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution of this content is strictly prohibited. © 2024 Momcast Production LLC. All rights reserved.

In this emotionally charged episode of Voices Against Filide, host Hope Hooton shares the harrowing story of a tragic filicide that occurred in Huntsville, Alabama, in August 2025. The episode explores the raw and painful experiences of those affected, including the first-hand accounts from a grieving community. Hope honors her own children, Alec and Lydia, and underscores the critical need for awareness and action against filicide. Listeners are educated on the warning signs and risk factors associated with such tragedies and encouraged to engage in advocacy and support for mental health interventions.

TRIGGER WARNING 
This podcast contains deeply disturbing content, including firsthand accounts from parents and family members who have lost children to familicide—the murder of a child by a parent or caregiver. The stories are raw, emotional, and include details of immense loss, system failures, and trauma. Listeners are advised to take care, and may pause or stop the podcast if needed.

Connect with Hope Hooton:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hope_in_the_pain/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hope.in.the.pain
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Hopeinthepain

Website: voicesagainstfilicide.odoo.com 

Support & Subscribe:
If you found this episode meaningful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this podcast to amplify the stories of those who can no longer speak for themselves.

Voices Against Filicide Merch Shop:
https://momcast-productions.myspreadshop.com/

Production Credits:
Written, Researched, and Hosted by: Hope Hooton
Produced & Edited by: Rachel Holloway
A Momcast Production

Voices Against Filicide is a part of Momcast Production LLC. All content, including but not limited to audio, written materials, and visual assets, are protected under copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution of this content is strictly prohibited. © 2024 Momcast Production LLC. All rights reserved.

TRIGGER WARNING 
This podcast contains deeply disturbing content, including firsthand accounts from parents and family members who have lost children to familicide—the murder of a child by a parent or caregiver. The stories are raw, emotional, and include details of immense loss, system failures, and trauma. Listeners are advised to take care, and may pause or stop the podcast if needed.

Connect with Hope Hooton:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hope_in_the_pain/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hope.in.the.pain
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Hopeinthepain

Website: voicesagainstfilicide.odoo.com 

Support & Subscribe:
If you found this episode meaningful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this podcast to amplify the stories of those who can no longer speak for themselves.

Voices Against Filicide Merch Shop:
https://momcast-productions.myspreadshop.com/

Production Credits:
Written, Researched, and Hosted by: Hope Hooton
Produced & Edited by: Rachel Holloway
A Momcast Production

Voices Against Filicide is a part of Momcast Production LLC. All content, including but not limited to audio, written materials, and visual assets, are protected under copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution of this content is strictly prohibited. © 2024 Momcast Production LLC. All rights reserved.

In this emotionally intense episode, host Hope Hooton, delves into the heart-wrenching case of 10-year-old Jayden Spicer from Eastern Kentucky. Jayden's disappearance and tragic death unfold, shedding light on system failures, the profound loss experienced by his family, and the ongoing advocacy needed to prevent similar tragedies.

The episode highlights community efforts, emergency support systems like the Ian Act and Rowan Act, and emphasizes the importance of awareness and immediate action. Listeners are encouraged to stay vigilant, support local safeguarding initiatives, and seek help if experiencing distress. This episode honors Jayden's life and those of other young lives lost too soon.


TRIGGER WARNING 
This podcast contains deeply disturbing content, including firsthand accounts from parents and family members who have lost children to familicide—the murder of a child by a parent or caregiver. The stories are raw, emotional, and include details of immense loss, system failures, and trauma. Listeners are advised to take care, and may pause or stop the podcast if needed.

Connect with Hope Hooton:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hope_in_the_pain/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hope.in.the.pain
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Hopeinthepain

Website: voicesagainstfilicide.odoo.com 

Voices Against Filicide Merch Shop:
https://momcast-productions.myspreadshop.com/

Support & Subscribe:
If you found this episode meaningful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this podcast to amplify the stories of those who can no longer speak for themselves.

Voices Against Filicide Merch Shop:
https://momcast-productions.myspreadshop.com/

The Rowan Project:
https://therowanproject.org/

Production Credits:
Written, Researched, and Hosted by: Hope Hooton
Produced & Edited by: Rachel Holloway
A Momcast Production

Voices Against Filicide is a part of Momcast Production LLC. All content, including but not limited to audio, written materials, and visual assets, are protected under copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution of this content is strictly prohibited. © 2024 Momcast Production LLC. All rights reserved.

In this emotional episode, host Hope Hooton, shares the heartbreaking story of Emily Grace, a vibrant 9-year-old girl tragically lost to filicide at the hands of her father. Through raw and personal accounts, this podcast sheds light on the deep sorrow and systemic failures surrounding filicide cases. Hope emphasizes the importance of community support and offers resources for those struggling with mental health issues. Listeners are encouraged to support Emily's family through a GoFundMe campaign and spread awareness to prevent future tragedies.

Emily Grace's GoFundMe:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-emily-graces-bright-spirit

TRIGGER WARNING 
This podcast contains deeply disturbing content, including firsthand accounts from parents and family members who have lost children to familicide—the murder of a child by a parent or caregiver. The stories are raw, emotional, and include details of immense loss, system failures, and trauma. Listeners are advised to take care, and may pause or stop the podcast if needed.

Connect with Hope Hooton:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hope_in_the_pain/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hope.in.the.pain
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Hopeinthepain

Website: voicesagainstfilicide.odoo.com 

Support & Subscribe:
If you found this episode meaningful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this podcast to amplify the stories of those who can no longer speak for themselves.

Voices Against Filicide Merch Shop:
https://momcast-productions.myspreadshop.com/

The Rowan Project:
https://therowanproject.org/

Production Credits:
Written, Researched, and Hosted by: Hope Hooton
Produced & Edited by: Rachel Holloway
A Momcast Production

Voices Against Filicide is a part of Momcast Production LLC. All content, including but not limited to audio, written materials, and visual assets, are protected under copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution of this content is strictly prohibited. © 2024 Momcast Production LLC. All rights reserved.

In this deeply emotional episode of Voices Against Filicide, host Hope Hooton shares the harrowing story of nine-year-old Pierce, who was tragically murdered by his father in San Francisco. With permission from Pierce's mother, Lesley Hu, the episode delves into the efforts to co-parent safely amidst red flags and conspiracy beliefs held by Pierce's father. Despite seeking court intervention to secure medical custody and ensure Pierce's safety, the system's delays and failures led to an unimaginable loss.

In her grief, Leslie founded Pierce's Pledge, an initiative aimed at preventing such tragedies through proactive measures like firearm removal during custody disputes. The episode calls for systemic changes in family courts and raises awareness about the importance of Pierce's Pledge in saving lives and ensuring children's safety during custody battles.

Pierces Pledge:
https://www.piercespledge.org/

Follow on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/piercespledge/#

Contact Information:
[email protected]

Donate here:
https://giving.classy.org/campaign/644954/donate

TRIGGER WARNING 
This podcast contains deeply disturbing content, including firsthand accounts from parents and family members who have lost children to familicide—the murder of a child by a parent or caregiver. The stories are raw, emotional, and include details of immense loss, system failures, and trauma. Listeners are advised to take care, and may pause or stop the podcast if needed.

Connect with Hope Hooton:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hope_in_the_pain/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hope.in.the.pain
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Hopeinthepain

Website: voicesagainstfilicide.odoo.com 

Support & Subscribe:
If you found this episode meaningful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this podcast to amplify the stories of those who can no longer speak for themselves.

Voices Against Filicide Merch Shop:
https://momcast-productions.myspreadshop.com/

The Rowan Project:
https://therowanproject.org/

Production Credits:
Written, Researched, and Hosted by: Hope Hooton
Produced & Edited by: Rachel Holloway
A Momcast Production

Voices Against Filicide is a part of Momcast Production LLC. All content, including but not limited to audio, written materials, and visual assets, are protected under copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution of this content is strictly prohibited. © 2024 Momcast Production LLC. All rights reserved.

In this deeply emotional episode, Hope Hooton, a mother and advocate, shares her tragic personal story of losing her children, Alec and Lydia, to filicide. Hope describes the warning signs and systemic failures, including emotional and psychological abuse from her husband, Brock, escalating after personal losses. Despite following all legal advice and obtaining emergency protective orders, the family court system failed to act on critical evidence. This episode calls for urgent reforms in family court systems to prevent similar tragedies and highlights the need for improved mental health evaluations and judicial accountability. Hope urges listeners to share the episode widely to raise awareness and advocate for change.


TRIGGER WARNING 
This podcast contains deeply disturbing content, including firsthand accounts from parents and family members who have lost children to familicide—the murder of a child by a parent or caregiver. The stories are raw, emotional, and include details of immense loss, system failures, and trauma. Listeners are advised to take care, and may pause or stop the podcast if needed.

Connect with Hope Hooton:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hope_in_the_pain/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hope.in.the.pain
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Hopeinthepain

Website: voicesagainstfilicide.odoo.com 

Support & Subscribe:
If you found this episode meaningful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this podcast to amplify the stories of those who can no longer speak for themselves.

Voices Against Filicide Merch Shop:
https://momcast-productions.myspreadshop.com/

The Rowan Project:
https://therowanproject.org/

Production Credits:
Written, Researched, and Hosted by: Hope Hooton
Produced & Edited by: Rachel Holloway
A Momcast Production

Voices Against Filicide is a part of Momcast Production LLC. All content, including but not limited to audio, written materials, and visual assets, are protected under copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution of this content is strictly prohibited. © 2024 Momcast Production LLC. All rights reserved.