In 1979, Scottish forestry worker Robert Taylor encountered a strange metallic craft in Dechmont Woods that physically attacked him — leaving behind torn clothing, mysterious ground markings, and enough evidence to convince police to open the only criminal investigation in UFO history.

Join the DARKNESS SYNDICATE: https://weirddarkness.com/syndicate

IN THIS EPISODE: Hundreds of years after his death, the tomb of William Longespee was opened and what was found horrified the man who opened it… the skeleton of a black rat was found in the skull of Longespee – but that wasn’t the end of the story! (The Rat In Longespee’s Skull) *** Most people are superstitious to at least a tiny degree – avoiding walking under ladders, not opening umbrellas indoors, or having a tingle down the spine every Friday the 13th. Perhaps you have a favorite or “lucky” shirt to wear on special occasions – or a lucky pair of socks. Maybe you have to dress from left to right instead of the other way around. Superstitions may seem silly, but we seem to live with them everywhere – but your superstitions don’t hold a candle to the ones believed by those in the theater. Thespians on and off the stage have some pretty bizarre concepts about what is lucky and unlucky. (Strange Superstitions of the Stage) *** Viking sagas describe the ritual execution of blood eagle, in which victims were kept alive while their backs were sliced open so that their ribs, lungs, and intestines could be pulled out into the shape of bloody wings. The torture method was so grisly that some historians believe it never truly happened. We can only hope historians are correct, because the thought of someone going through it alive is unbelievably terrifying. (The Blood Eagle Viking Torture) *** Physicist Enrico Fermi famously asked the question "Where are they?" to express his surprise over the absence of any signs for the existence of other intelligent civilizations in the Milky Way Galaxy. Although many potential resolutions to this so-called “Fermi paradox” have been suggested over the years, there is still no consensus on which one, if any, is correct.  We’ll look at some of the theories as to where E.T. might be found. (Where Might E.T. Be Hiding?) *** Only once in the history of law enforcement and ufology has there been a case where a UFO incident turned into an actual criminal investigation. We’ll look at the Dechmont Woods Encounter. (The Criminal Investigation of a UFO Incident)
ABOUT WEIRD DARKNESS: Weird Darkness is a true crime and paranormal podcast narrated by professional award-winning voice actor, Darren Marlar. Seven days per week, Weird Darkness focuses on all thing strange and macabre such as haunted locations, unsolved mysteries, true ghost stories, supernatural manifestations, urban legends, unsolved or cold case murders, conspiracy theories, and more. On Thursdays, this scary stories podcast features horror fiction along with the occasional creepypasta. Weird Darkness has been named one of the “Best 20 Storytellers in Podcasting” by Podcast Business Journal. Listeners have described the show as a cross between “Coast to Coast” with Art Bell, “The Twilight Zone” with Rod Serling, “Unsolved Mysteries” with Robert Stack, and “In Search Of” with Leonard Nimoy.
DISCLAIMER: Ads heard during the podcast that are not in my voice are placed by third party agencies outside of my control and should not imply an endorsement by Weird Darkness or myself. *** Stories and content in Weird Darkness can be disturbing for some listeners and intended for mature audiences only. Parental discretion is strongly advised.
CHAPTERS & TIME STAMPS (All Times Approximate)…
00:00:00.000 = Lead-In
00:03:10.670 = Show Open
00:06:19.431 = The Criminal Investigation of a UFO Incident
00:26:38.537 = Where Might E.T. Be Hiding?
00:41:00.439 = The Blood Eagle Viking Torture
00:48:25.986 = Strange Superstitions of the Stage
01:06:25.453 = The Rat in Longespee’s Skull
01:18:08.983 = Show Close

SOURCES AND RESOURCES FROM THE EPISODE…
BOOK: “The UFO Mystery Solved” by Steuart Campbell: https://amzn.to/3OsXXnI
BOOK: “UFO Scotland – the Secret History of Scotland’s UFO Phenomenon” by Ron Halliday: https://amzn.to/3Y5nkiA
“The Criminal Investigation of a UFO Incident” by Marcus Lowth for UFO Insight: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/562ntr6z; and IAN at Mysterious Britain and Ireland:https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/2p8ty2n8
“Where Might E.T. Be Hiding?” by Ben Gazur for ListVerse.com: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/3yvx7adx
“Strange Superstitions of the Stage” by Amanda Boisen for Ranker: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/36y34m7b
“The Rat In Longespee’s Skull” posted at The Haunted Palace Blog: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/yjdxecmn
“The Blood Eagle Viking Torture” by William DeLong for AllThatsInteresting.com: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/yckwkzew
=====
(Over time links may become invalid, disappear, or have different content. I always make sure to give authors credit for the material I use whenever possible. If I somehow overlooked doing so for a story, or if a credit is incorrect, please let me know and I will rectify it in these show notes immediately. Some links included above may benefit me financially through qualifying purchases.)
= = = = =
"I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." — John 12:46
= = = = =
WeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2025, Weird Darkness.
=====
Originally aired: July 25, 2023
NOTE: Some of this content may have been created with assistance from AI tools, but it has been reviewed, edited, narrated, produced, and approved by Darren Marlar, creator and host of Weird Darkness — who, despite popular conspiracy theories, is NOT an AI voice.
EPISODE PAGE at WeirdDarkness.com (includes list of sources): https://weirddarkness.com/DechmontUFO

In a world where fear is manufactured for ratings, one man’s fight for survival becomes all too real — and the cameras never stop rolling.

Originally published by Infinity, July 1957

A pregnant woman begins to hear ghostly whispers from within her own body — terrifying cries that seem to come from the unborn child growing inside her. It’s the story, “Dreaming of Thee” from BBC’s Fear on 4!| #RetroRadio EP0450

Join the DARKNESS SYNDICATE: https://weirddarkness.com/syndicate

CHAPTERS & TIME STAMPS (All Times Approximate)…
00:00:00.000 = Show Open
00:01:50.000 = CBS Radio Mystery Theater, “Ghost Town” (May 31, 1976) ***WD
00:47:40.428 = Escape, “John Jock Todd” (May 02, 1948)
01:17:20.652 = Everyman’s Theater, “Cat Wife” (October 18, 1940)
01:47:17.212 = Murder By Experts, “The Big Money” (July 25, 1949)
02:16:53.460 = Exploring Tomorrow, “Trouble With Robots” (May 28, 1958) ***WD
02:36:33.722 = Faces In The Window, “Pit And The Pendulum” (January 24, 1953) ***WD
03:07:45.297 = Dark Fantasy, “W Is For Werewolf” (February 13, 1942)
03:32:12.439 = Diary of Fate, “Marvin Thomas Entry” (June 08, 1948) ***WD
04:01:30.405 = BBC’s Fear on 4, “Dreaming of Thee” (February 12, 1989)
04:28:28.923 = Five After the Hour, “Song of the River” (June 06, 1945)
04:52:45.245 = 5 Minute Mysteries, “Return of Mr. Lawrence” (Late 1940s)
04:57:54.566 = Tales From The Tomb, “The Girl of His Dreams” (1960s)
05:01:39.610 = Future Tense, “Protection” (May 29, 1974) ***WD
05:25:07.993 = Gang Busters, “John Frederick Benson – Dakota Badman” (February 28, 1948)
05:47:55.900 = The Green Hornet, “Ripe For The Taking” (September 05, 1939)
06:17:19.475 = Hall of Fantasy, “Death In The Bayous” (March 06, 1947)
06:47:27.170 = The Lives of Harry Lime, “Night In Harem” (June 06, 1952) ***WD
07:12:46.047 = BBC’s Haunted Tales of the Supernatural, “The Judge’s House” (May 01, 1982)
07:40:14.559 = The Haunting Hour, “Southern Star” (September 29, 1945)
08:05:27.416 = Have Gun Will Travel, “Homecoming” (June 28, 1959)
08:25:51.261 = Hermit’s Cave, “The Story Without End” (January 11, 1942) ***WD
08:49:01.280 = Mystery Is My Hobby, “Thief And The Paintings” (1949-1951) ***WD
09:12:03.089 = Sherlock Holmes, “The Indiscretion of Mr. Edwards” (February 04, 1946)
09:40:25.396 = Incredible But True, “The Whereabouts of Mr. Wadham” (1950-1951)
09:44:23.228 = Inner Sanctum, “Dark Chamber” (December 11, 1945)
10:08:37.02 = Show Close

(ADU) = Air Date Unknown
(LQ) = Low Quality
***WD = Remastered, edited, or cleaned up by Weird Darkness to make the episode more listenable. Audio may not be pristine, but it will be better than the original file which may have been unusable or more difficult to hear without editing.
Weird Darkness theme by Alibi Music Library

ABOUT WEIRD DARKNESS: Weird Darkness is a true crime and paranormal podcast narrated by professional award-winning voice actor, Darren Marlar. Seven days per week, Weird Darkness focuses on all thing strange and macabre such as haunted locations, unsolved mysteries, true ghost stories, supernatural manifestations, urban legends, unsolved or cold case murders, conspiracy theories, and more. On Thursdays, this scary stories podcast features horror fiction along with the occasional creepypasta. Weird Darkness has been named one of the “Best 20 Storytellers in Podcasting” by Podcast Business Journal. Listeners have described the show as a cross between “Coast to Coast” with Art Bell, “The Twilight Zone” with Rod Serling, “Unsolved Mysteries” with Robert Stack, and “In Search Of” with Leonard Nimoy.
= = = = =
"I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." — John 12:46
= = = = =
WeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2025, Weird Darkness.
= = = = =
CUSTOM WEBPAGE: https://weirddarkness.com/WDRR0450

When a college professor receives obsessive attention from a colleague possessed by an ancient amulet, he soon discovers her love may be deadly! | #RetroRadio EP0449

Join the DARKNESS SYNDICATE: https://weirddarkness.com/syndicate

CHAPTERS & TIME STAMPS (All Times Approximate)…
00:00:00.000 = Show Open
00:01:50.000 = CBS Radio Mystery Theater, “Demon Lover” (May 27, 1976) ***WD
00:45:51.870 = Confession, “Martin Everett” (July 12, 1953)
01:15:38.701 = Creeps By Night, “Six Who Did Not Die” (July 11, 1944) ***WD
01:44:48.518 = The Crime Club, “Mr. Smith’s Hat” (January 23, 1947)
02:14:42.266 = Sounds of Darkness, “Showdown For Soldiers” (August 11, 1970)
02:40:05.180 = The Devil and Mr. O, “No Escape” (November 19, 1971) ***WD
03:09:16.658 = Dimension X, “Courtesy” (July 26, 1951)
03:38:44.194 = The Strange Dr. Weird, “Stand-In For Death” (December 26, 1944) ***WD
03:50:24.516 = The Creaking Door, “Three Wishes” (1964-1965) ***WD
04:18:03.749 = Eleventh Hour, “Not All Shipshape” (1963)
04:43:07.091 = Show Close

(ADU) = Air Date Unknown
(LQ) = Low Quality
***WD = Remastered, edited, or cleaned up by Weird Darkness to make the episode more listenable. Audio may not be pristine, but it will be better than the original file which may have been unusable or more difficult to hear without editing.
Weird Darkness theme by Alibi Music Library

ABOUT WEIRD DARKNESS: Weird Darkness is a true crime and paranormal podcast narrated by professional award-winning voice actor, Darren Marlar. Seven days per week, Weird Darkness focuses on all thing strange and macabre such as haunted locations, unsolved mysteries, true ghost stories, supernatural manifestations, urban legends, unsolved or cold case murders, conspiracy theories, and more. On Thursdays, this scary stories podcast features horror fiction along with the occasional creepypasta. Weird Darkness has been named one of the “Best 20 Storytellers in Podcasting” by Podcast Business Journal. Listeners have described the show as a cross between “Coast to Coast” with Art Bell, “The Twilight Zone” with Rod Serling, “Unsolved Mysteries” with Robert Stack, and “In Search Of” with Leonard Nimoy.
= = = = =
"I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." — John 12:46
= = = = =
WeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2025, Weird Darkness.
= = = = =
CUSTOM WEBPAGE: https://weirddarkness.com/WDRR0449

A newlywed couple’s honeymoon drifts into darkness when the ghost of the bride’s first husband refuses to stay buried. | #RetroRadio EP0448

Join the DARKNESS SYNDICATE: https://weirddarkness.com/syndicate

CHAPTERS & TIME STAMPS (All Times Approximate)…
00:00:00.000 = Show Open
00:01:50.000 = CBS Radio Mystery Theater, “A Mexican Standoff” (May 24, 1976) ***WD
00:45:58.382 = Strange Adventure, “His Last Laugh” (1945)
00:49:24.513 = Adventures By Morse, “It’s Dismal To Die, Part 1” (December 16, 1944)
01:17:21.146 = Adventures By Morse, “It’s Dismal To Die, Part 2” (December 23, 1944)
01:44:37.101 = Adventures By Morse, “It’s Dismal To Die, Part 3” (December 30, 1944)
02:12:05.086 = Appointment With Fear, “Clock Strikes Eight” (May 18, 1944) ***WD
02:41:02.207 = BBC Ghost Story, “Mortmain” (April 22, 1992)
03:25:30.972 = Beyond The Green Door, “Eddie Fox-Hobo In Oakdale” (1966)
03:29:34.149 = The Black Book, “The Price of the Head” (February 02, 1952) ***WD
03:44:29.421 = Box 13, “Daytime Nightmare” (May 15, 1949)
04:11:13.231 = CBC Mystery Theater, “A Perfectly Happy Life” (1966-1968) ***WD
04:41:05.595 = The Clock, “The Manicurist” (July 14, 1947) ***WD
05:07:43.237 = Show Close

(ADU) = Air Date Unknown
(LQ) = Low Quality
***WD = Remastered, edited, or cleaned up by Weird Darkness to make the episode more listenable. Audio may not be pristine, but it will be better than the original file which may have been unusable or more difficult to hear without editing.
Weird Darkness theme by Alibi Music Library

ABOUT WEIRD DARKNESS: Weird Darkness is a true crime and paranormal podcast narrated by professional award-winning voice actor, Darren Marlar. Seven days per week, Weird Darkness focuses on all thing strange and macabre such as haunted locations, unsolved mysteries, true ghost stories, supernatural manifestations, urban legends, unsolved or cold case murders, conspiracy theories, and more. On Thursdays, this scary stories podcast features horror fiction along with the occasional creepypasta. Weird Darkness has been named one of the “Best 20 Storytellers in Podcasting” by Podcast Business Journal. Listeners have described the show as a cross between “Coast to Coast” with Art Bell, “The Twilight Zone” with Rod Serling, “Unsolved Mysteries” with Robert Stack, and “In Search Of” with Leonard Nimoy.
= = = = =
"I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." — John 12:46
= = = = =
WeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2025, Weird Darkness.
= = = = =
CUSTOM WEBPAGE: https://weirddarkness.com/WDRR0448

When a schoolteacher's borrowed BBC computer began displaying mysterious messages from a 16th-century scholar and beings from the year 2109, it sparked one of England's most bewildering paranormal cases.

Join the DARKNESS SYNDICATE: https://weirddarkness.com/syndicate

IN THIS EPISODE: In Victorian London, a grisly murder case involving Maria and Frederick Manning shocked society and caught the attention of Charles Dickens himself. What began as a love triangle turned into a chilling tale of greed, betrayal, and murder, culminating in a public execution that would challenge the very nature of capital punishment in Great Britain. (The Murderous Mannings) *** In 1720, amidst a perilous pirate attack on the Atlantic, a newborn's cry changed the course of destiny. Ocean-Born Mary, christened by buccaneers and gifted with a bolt of green silk, would grow from a maritime legend into a symbol of courage and resilience in colonial New England, her extraordinary birth weaving a tapestry of fact and fiction that continues to captivate imaginations centuries later. (A Pirate’s Godchild, Ocean-Born Mary) *** On the morning of June 20, 2001, Andrea Yates shocked the nation by drowning her five children, one by one, in the family bathtub. Years of untreated mental illness, compounded by religious fanaticism and postpartum psychosis, culminated in this unimaginable tragedy. Was it the work of a tortured mind, or something darker at play? (Did The Devil Make Her Do It?) *** Deep in the ancient folds of the Appalachian Mountains, where time seems to slow and shadows linger, legends have taken root for millennia. These peaks have become a breeding ground for supernatural tales that blend seamlessly with the landscape. The sheer age and untamed nature of Appalachia have given birth to a rich tapestry of myths, from the Mothman, to ghosts, to the Devil himself. (Modern Mythology and Ancient Appalachia) *** In the heart of Preston, Ladywell Street is infamous for a chilling spectral presence capable of shifting forms—from eerie footsteps to a blood-soaked apparition known as the Bannister Doll. Once a beautiful young woman, Dolly Bannister met a tragic death at the hands of her father, a punishment for a crime she didn’t commit. Now, her restless spirit seeks retribution, haunting the streets and striking fear into anyone who dares to cross her path. (The Haunting of Ladywell Street) *** In 1984, a sleepy English village became the unlikely stage for a mind-bending mystery when a schoolteacher's computer began receiving messages from a man claiming to be from 1546. As past and present collided through a BBC Micro, Ken Webster and his friends found themselves entangled in a web of Tudor English, future prophecies, and inexplicable phenomena that would challenge everything they thought they knew about time and technology. (Ctrl+Alt+1546: The Dodleston Messages Mystery)
ABOUT WEIRD DARKNESS: Weird Darkness is a true crime and paranormal podcast narrated by professional award-winning voice actor, Darren Marlar. Seven days per week, Weird Darkness focuses on all thing strange and macabre such as haunted locations, unsolved mysteries, true ghost stories, supernatural manifestations, urban legends, unsolved or cold case murders, conspiracy theories, and more. On Thursdays, this scary stories podcast features horror fiction along with the occasional creepypasta. Weird Darkness has been named one of the “Best 20 Storytellers in Podcasting” by Podcast Business Journal. Listeners have described the show as a cross between “Coast to Coast” with Art Bell, “The Twilight Zone” with Rod Serling, “Unsolved Mysteries” with Robert Stack, and “In Search Of” with Leonard Nimoy.
DISCLAIMER: Ads heard during the podcast that are not in my voice are placed by third party agencies outside of my control and should not imply an endorsement by Weird Darkness or myself. *** Stories and content in Weird Darkness can be disturbing for some listeners and intended for mature audiences only. Parental discretion is strongly advised.

CHAPTERS & TIME STAMPS (All Times Approximate)…
00:00:00.000 = Lead-In
00:01:33.391 = Show Open
00:05:27.341 = The Dodleston Messages Mystery
00:27:16.141 = The Pirate’s Godchild, Ocean-Born Mary
00:32:01.707 = The Murderous Mannings
00:41:10.624 = Modern Mythology and Ancient Appalachia
00:48:42.848 = Did The Devil Make Her Do It?
00:59:28.888 = The Haunting of Ladywell Street
01:03:06.047 = Show Close

SOURCES AND RESOURCES FROM THE EPISODE…
BOOK: “The Vertical Plane” by Ken Webster: https://amzn.to/4drgdH4
“Ctrl+Alt+1546: The Dodleston Messages Mystery” source: Tony Walker, Medium: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/3pf7strv
“The Murderous Mannings” source: Alexa Baczak, Medium: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/2p8a6sta
“The Pirate’s Godchild, Ocean-Born Mary” sources: NewEngland.com: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/bdvz9by6; Sea Coast NH: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/3jy3bc3r; New England Historical Society:https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/2p84pzrn
“The Haunting of Ladywell Street” source: The Lancashire Post: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/yckypttt; Deborah Contessa: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/2p8zkern
“Did The Devil Make Her Do It?” by Troy Taylor (used with permission): https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/swtmdth7
“Modern Mythology and Ancient Appalachia” source: National Geographic: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/yckjkbaw
=====
(Over time links may become invalid, disappear, or have different content. I always make sure to give authors credit for the material I use whenever possible. If I somehow overlooked doing so for a story, or if a credit is incorrect, please let me know and I will rectify it in these show notes immediately. Some links included above may benefit me financially through qualifying purchases.)
= = = = =
"I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." — John 12:46
= = = = =
WeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2025, Weird Darkness.
=====
Originally aired: September 27, 2024
NOTE: Some of this content may have been created with assistance from AI tools, but it has been reviewed, edited, narrated, produced, and approved by Darren Marlar, creator and host of Weird Darkness — who, despite popular conspiracy theories, is NOT an AI voice.
EPISODE PAGE at WeirdDarkness.com (includes list of sources): https://weirddarkness.com/DodlestonMessages

In a future where androids serve without question, one machine develops a chilling desire — to kill the very humans he was built to protect. CBS Radio Mystery Theater presents “The Walking Dead!” | #RetroRadio EP0447

Join the DARKNESS SYNDICATE: https://weirddarkness.com/syndicate

CHAPTERS & TIME STAMPS (All Times Approximate)…
00:00:00.000 = Show Open
00:01:50.000 = CBS Radio Mystery Theater, “The Walking Dead” (May 20, 1976) ***WD
00:46:51.122 = Tales of the Frightened, “Never Kick a Black Cat” (1963)
00:51:41.848 = Theater Five, “John Hansen Hermit” (October 01, 1964)
01:13:13.796 = 2000 Plus, “Flying Saucers” (August 23, 1950) ***WD
01:42:30.649 = Unit 99, “Attempted Suicide at W Street” (March 21, 1958)
02:08:02.084 = Unsolved Mysteries, “Mystery of the Zombie” (1936) ***WD
02:22:43.494 = Dark Venture, “Hideout” (January 07, 1947) ***WD
02:46:26.862 = The Weird Circle, “Dream Woman” (September 03, 1944)
03:14:00.944 = The Whistler, “Tangled Web” (September 10, 1943)
03:43:34.575 = Witch’s Tale, “Mannequin” (September 11, 1933)
04:09:03.689 = X Minus One, “A Thousand Dollars a Plate” (March 21, 1956)
04:36:40.350 = ABC Mystery Time, “No One Will Ever Know” (1957)
05:00:38.841 = Show Close

(ADU) = Air Date Unknown
(LQ) = Low Quality
***WD = Remastered, edited, or cleaned up by Weird Darkness to make the episode more listenable. Audio may not be pristine, but it will be better than the original file which may have been unusable or more difficult to hear without editing.
Weird Darkness theme by Alibi Music Library

ABOUT WEIRD DARKNESS: Weird Darkness is a true crime and paranormal podcast narrated by professional award-winning voice actor, Darren Marlar. Seven days per week, Weird Darkness focuses on all thing strange and macabre such as haunted locations, unsolved mysteries, true ghost stories, supernatural manifestations, urban legends, unsolved or cold case murders, conspiracy theories, and more. On Thursdays, this scary stories podcast features horror fiction along with the occasional creepypasta. Weird Darkness has been named one of the “Best 20 Storytellers in Podcasting” by Podcast Business Journal. Listeners have described the show as a cross between “Coast to Coast” with Art Bell, “The Twilight Zone” with Rod Serling, “Unsolved Mysteries” with Robert Stack, and “In Search Of” with Leonard Nimoy.
= = = = =
"I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." — John 12:46
= = = = =
WeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2025, Weird Darkness.
= = = = =
CUSTOM WEBPAGE: https://weirddarkness.com/WDRR0447

In 1971, two boys found a pair of carved stone heads in their garden that unleashed a werewolf-like creature, baffled archaeologists, and vanished without a trace — leaving behind only terror and unanswered questions.

Join the DARKNESS SYNDICATE: https://weirddarkness.com/syndicate

IN THIS EPISODE: Deep within the ancient limestone caves of Wookey Hole, a legendary witch once cast her dark curse over the nearby village, dooming all love to fail. Centuries later, the echoes of her magic still haunt the caverns, where eerie sounds and ghostly figures continue to baffle and terrify visitors. Is the petrified figure in the Witch’s Kitchen truly the stone remains of the cursed sorceress, or does her spirit linger, waiting for someone to break the spell? (The Witch of Wookey Hole) *** In 1954, off the coast of Australia, a routine flight turned into one of the most compelling UFO encounters in history. When Royal Australian Navy pilot Lieutenant O'Farrell reported two mysterious lights outpacing his Sea Fury aircraft, he couldn't have imagined that his sighting, confirmed by multiple radar operators on the ground, would become a cornerstone case in UFO research for decades to come. (The Sea Fury UFO Mystery) *** "When two boys unearth strange stone heads in their backyard, they unknowingly trigger a series of eerie events, from ghostly encounters to bizarre werewolf sightings. As archaeologists and paranormal investigators examine the Hexham Heads, rumors of ancient curses and supernatural forces grow — but are the objects truly cursed, or is it all just legend?" (The Hexham Heads)
ABOUT WEIRD DARKNESS: Weird Darkness is a true crime and paranormal podcast narrated by professional award-winning voice actor, Darren Marlar. Seven days per week, Weird Darkness focuses on all thing strange and macabre such as haunted locations, unsolved mysteries, true ghost stories, supernatural manifestations, urban legends, unsolved or cold case murders, conspiracy theories, and more. On Thursdays, this scary stories podcast features horror fiction along with the occasional creepypasta. Weird Darkness has been named one of the “Best 20 Storytellers in Podcasting” by Podcast Business Journal. Listeners have described the show as a cross between “Coast to Coast” with Art Bell, “The Twilight Zone” with Rod Serling, “Unsolved Mysteries” with Robert Stack, and “In Search Of” with Leonard Nimoy.
DISCLAIMER: Ads heard during the podcast that are not in my voice are placed by third party agencies outside of my control and should not imply an endorsement by Weird Darkness or myself. *** Stories and content in Weird Darkness can be disturbing for some listeners and intended for mature audiences only. Parental discretion is strongly advised.

CHAPTERS & TIME STAMPS (All Times Approximate)…
00:00:00.000 = Lead-In
00:01:30.120 = Show Open
00:03:55.117 = Horror of the Hexam Heads, Part 1
00:15:22.453 = Horror of the Hexam Heads, Part 2
00:30:38.382 = The Witch of Wookey Hole
00:48:25.801 = The Sea Fury UFO Mystery
00:56:35.968 = Show Outro

SOURCES AND RESOURCES FROM THE EPISODE…
Episodes with “The Stone Tape Theory”: https://weirddarkness.com/?s=%22stone+tape+theory%22
Episodes with Sawney Bean stories: https://weirddarkness.com/?s=%22Sawney+Bean%22
BOOK: “Tales of the Hexham Heads” by Paul Screeton (Free PDF): https://bit.ly/47IaQCi
“The Horror of the Hexam Heads” source: The Urban Prehistorian: https://bit.ly/3XVGokR, https://bit.ly/3zJOP9v,https://bit.ly/3XGQAMB, https://bit.ly/4gDKHZg
“The Witch of Wookey Hole” sources: Lauren Dillon, HistoricMysteries.com: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/mr3u7mjh; Chris Goodchild and Neil Morgan, Haunted History Chronicles: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/3cb2tacc; Julia Banim and Josie O’Brien, The Mirror: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/2p85bt9t
“The Sea Fury UFO Mystery” source: Marcus Lowth at UFO Insight: https://bit.ly/47DC6lr, and Bill Chalker at UFO Evidence: https://bit.ly/3MXqzUq
=====
(Over time links may become invalid, disappear, or have different content. I always make sure to give authors credit for the material I use whenever possible. If I somehow overlooked doing so for a story, or if a credit is incorrect, please let me know and I will rectify it in these show notes immediately. Some links included above may benefit me financially through qualifying purchases.)
= = = = =
"I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." — John 12:46
= = = = =
WeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2025, Weird Darkness.
=====
Originally aired: September 26, 2024

EPISODE PAGE at WeirdDarkness.com (includes list of sources): https://weirddarkness.com/HexhamHeads

Across centuries and continents, documented cases reveal supernatural forces that escalated beyond typical paranormal activity — resulting in physical harm, unexplained deaths, and encounters that defy conventional explanations.

Join the DARKNESS SYNDICATE: https://weirddarkness.com/syndicate

IN THIS EPISODE: Many ghost stories are frightening but leave the person encountering them shaken, but no more worse for wear. Perhaps a light touch on the shoulder, the moving of an object, a whisper in the ear, or a cold chill for the more intense cases. But then there are those hauntings that leave the person hysterical… or physically hurt… or even dead. We’ll look at some of the most violent ghosts and hauntings of all time. (History’s Most Violent Ghosts) *** Dixon, Illinois needed a bridge – Mr. L.E. Truesdell was an expert bridge builder. But people had doubts as to whether what he was being asked to do could be accomplished. The naysayers were ignored – and tragedy arrived, (The Truesdell Bridge Disaster) *** The witch trials in Salem, Massachusetts were horrid… the trials in Europe even more so. Now, imagine being a soldier tried as a witch because you returned with supernatural knowledge imparted to you after you were abducted by extraterrestrials. It sounds like the makings of a terrible novel and an even worse movie… but it’s the true story of Major Thomas Weir. (The True Story of the Alien Abduction Witch Trial) *** He’s believed to have killed over 50 women inside his soundproof torture trailer – which he called his “toy box.” We’ll look at the case of serial killer David Parker Ray. (Evils of the Toybox Killer) *** Our criminal justice system tries to be the most fair in the world – considering the accused “innocent until proven guilty.” And while our system is not perfect, for the most part it does its job well. But because it is not perfect, once in a while a murderer walks… or even worse, an innocent defendant goes to prison. And in some cases, that innocent person is convicted and imprisoned based on one thing – they confessed to the crime that they didn’t commit. Why would someone do that? (Why Do Innocent People Confess?) *** Port St. Lucie, Florida is full of disturbing urban legends – some true, many false – as urban legends go. But somehow, most all of these terrifying stories tie back to a single oak tree in a neighborhood park, and Florida’s first serial killer. (The Devil Tree Hauntings)
ABOUT WEIRD DARKNESS: Weird Darkness is a true crime and paranormal podcast narrated by professional award-winning voice actor, Darren Marlar. Seven days per week, Weird Darkness focuses on all thing strange and macabre such as haunted locations, unsolved mysteries, true ghost stories, supernatural manifestations, urban legends, unsolved or cold case murders, conspiracy theories, and more. On Thursdays, this scary stories podcast features horror fiction along with the occasional creepypasta. Weird Darkness has been named one of the “Best 20 Storytellers in Podcasting” by Podcast Business Journal. Listeners have described the show as a cross between “Coast to Coast” with Art Bell, “The Twilight Zone” with Rod Serling, “Unsolved Mysteries” with Robert Stack, and “In Search Of” with Leonard Nimoy.
DISCLAIMER: Ads heard during the podcast that are not in my voice are placed by third party agencies outside of my control and should not imply an endorsement by Weird Darkness or myself. *** Stories and content in Weird Darkness can be disturbing for some listeners and intended for mature audiences only. Parental discretion is strongly advised.

CHAPTERS & TIME STAMPS (All Times Approximate)…
00:00:00.000 = Lead-In
00:00:55.371 = Show Open
00:04:12.885 = The Devil Tree Hauntings
00:15:28.295 = History’s Most Violent Ghosts
00:36:32.777 = The True Story of the Alien Abduction Witch Trial
00:45:55.817 = Evils of the Toybox Killer
00:57:04.271 = The Truesdell Bridge Disaster
01:07:45.917 = Why Do Innocent People Confess?
01:15:48.277 = Show Close

SOURCES AND RESOURCES FROM THE EPISODE…
“History’s Most Violent Ghosts” by Robert F. Mason for Ranker: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/3x42y575
“The True Story of the Alien Abduction Witch Trial” by Marcus Lowth for UFO Insight: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/bdhrv3hu
“The Devil Tree Hauntings” posted at MiamiHaunts.com: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/2sp2wakz
“Evils of the Toybox Killer” by Jaclyn Anglis for All That’s Interesting: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/jep7tnxf
“The Truesdell Bridge Disaster” by Kathi Kresol for HauntedRockford.com: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/4c94hvjy
“Why Do Innocent People Confess?” by Lea Rose Emery for Ranker: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/bjtvenfv
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(Over time links may become invalid, disappear, or have different content. I always make sure to give authors credit for the material I use whenever possible. If I somehow overlooked doing so for a story, or if a credit is incorrect, please let me know and I will rectify it in these show notes immediately. Some links included above may benefit me financially through qualifying purchases.)
= = = = =
"I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." — John 12:46
= = = = =
WeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2025, Weird Darkness.
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Originally aired: July 24, 2023
EPISODE PAGE at WeirdDarkness.com (includes list of sources): https://weirddarkness.com/ViolentHauntings

I apologize for getting this week’s “Thriller Thursday” posted on Friday! I thought I had plenty of time to narrate and produce this, but the more I got into it, the more elaborate it became and the time just got away from me. Hopefully it’ll be worth your wait! – Darren

Leroy Johnston thought the worst part of his cruise would be the uncomfortable tuxedo on formal night — until a crimson storm hurled their ship into waters where the rules of reality no longer apply.

Join the DARKNESS SYNDICATE: https://weirddarkness.com/syndicate

Coming up in this episode… it’s #ThrillerThursday, with a tale by one of my favorite Creepypasta authors, Mark Lynch. It’s entitled, “I am stranded on a desert island far from home. Please send help.” In the story, when Leroy Johnston embarks on what should be a routine ocean cruise, he's simply looking forward to a relaxing vacation and reconnecting with an old friend. But after a devastating storm strikes their ship, the passengers and crew find themselves completely cut off from the outside world, drifting in waters that seem to follow none of the familiar rules. As their situation grows increasingly desperate and the veneer of civilization begins to crack, Leroy must confront terrors beyond imagination while fighting to protect the woman he's just met and come to love. We’re about to sail into some high seas horrors!
ABOUT WEIRD DARKNESS: Weird Darkness is a true crime and paranormal podcast narrated by professional award-winning voice actor, Darren Marlar. Seven days per week, Weird Darkness focuses on all thing strange and macabre such as haunted locations, unsolved mysteries, true ghost stories, supernatural manifestations, urban legends, unsolved or cold case murders, conspiracy theories, and more. On Thursdays, this scary stories podcast features horror fiction along with the occasional creepypasta. Weird Darkness has been named one of the “Best 20 Storytellers in Podcasting” by Podcast Business Journal. Listeners have described the show as a cross between “Coast to Coast” with Art Bell, “The Twilight Zone” with Rod Serling, “Unsolved Mysteries” with Robert Stack, and “In Search Of” with Leonard Nimoy.
DISCLAIMER: Ads heard during the podcast that are not in my voice are placed by third party agencies outside of my control and should not imply an endorsement by Weird Darkness or myself. *** Stories and content in Weird Darkness can be disturbing for some listeners and intended for mature audiences only. Parental discretion is strongly advised.

CHAPTERS & TIME STAMPS (All Times Approximate)…
00:00:00.000 =PART 1, The Bottle
00:01:09.306 = Show Open
00:02:43.453 = PART 1, The Bottle (Continues)
00:09:11.890 = PART 2, The Storm
00:23:09.900 = PART 3, Mutiny
00:44:45.114 = PART 4, Infestation
01:06:19.602 = PART 5, The Island
01:33:23.918 = Show Close

SOURCES AND RESOURCES FROM THE EPISODE…
Original story: https://www.creepypasta.com/i-am-stranded-on-a-desert-island-far-from-home-please-send-help/
More stories from Mark Lynch: https://www.creepypasta.com/?s=mark+lynch, https://www.creepypasta.com/?s=woundlicker
Mark Lynch on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089807263116
=====
(Over time links may become invalid, disappear, or have different content. I always make sure to give authors credit for the material I use whenever possible. If I somehow overlooked doing so for a story, or if a credit is incorrect, please let me know and I will rectify it in these show notes immediately. Some links included above may benefit me financially through qualifying purchases.)
= = = = =
"I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." — John 12:46
= = = = =
WeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2025, Weird Darkness.
=====
Originally aired: June 27, 2025

EPISODE PAGE at WeirdDarkness.com (includes list of sources): https://weirddarkness.com/BloodBeastsBetrayal