Body Bags with Joseph Scott Morgan

Grant Solomon, an 18-year-old prodigious athlete destined for greatness, tragically loses his life in a perplexing incident. The initial account of Grant's death is filled with inconsistencies and suspicious circumstances—his father Aaron Solomon's conflicting stories, the mysterious disappearance of witnesses, and the lack of expected physical evidence all contribute to the mystery. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack dig deep into these complexities, exploring everything from family dynamics and the meticulous details of attending professional sports training facilities to the forensics of accident investigations. Through expert analysis and engaging storytelling, they unravel a case shrouded in uncertainty.    Time codes: [00:00:20] Joseph Scott Morgan reflects on the value of relationships with children and introduces the case of a young man who tragically died at 18 years old. 00:03:20 - Dave Mack introduces Grant Solomon, a blue chip athlete with a promising future, and his parents, who are well-established in their respective careers. 00:05:20 -  The mystery surrounding Grant Solomon's death and the potential motive that could be tied to family issues are shared. 00:08:02 - Dave and Joe Scott discuss the high cost and meticulous preparation involved in attending professional sports training facilities and the logistics of showing up to such a facility without an appointment, suggesting an oddity in the situation. 00:12:20 - Joe talks about young drivers' potential mistakes, leading to Grant's death, and emphasizes the importance of eyewitness testimony in car accident cases. 00:15:32 - Joe and Dave discuss the importance of experts in assessing mechanical failures and the process of examining vehicles post-accident. 00:18:00 - Dave narrates the incident as explained by Aaron Solomon, Grant’s father, the only known witness. 00:19:00 - Joe and Dave discuss the significance of a player's baseball gear, specifically the bat. 00:21:20 - Dave reveals the ongoing custody battle between Grant's divorced parents at the time of his death, a video captured unknowingly by Grant's mother, and the inconsistencies in Aaron's account of the events leading up to Grant's death.  00:23:35 - Joseph Scott Morgan provides a detailed description of the scene, including the layout of the parking lot and the building.  00:25:32 - Joseph introduces blunt force trauma, a leading injury cause in America. 00:30:16 - The condition of Grant's shoes and lack of typical accident wear and tear are discussed. 00:31:57 - Joe Scott emphasizes the likelihood of trace evidence and the unusual lack of it in Grant's case. 00:34:36 - Joe and Dave discuss the cause of Grant's death, a single injury to the back of his head, and consider alternative explanations for how it could have occurred. 00:36:30 - Questions arise about the narrative of Grant being rolled over, citing a lack of evidence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

15 Aug 202326min

Ildiko Krajnyak, having just returned from a visit to her family in Hungary, finds herself on the cusp of a life-altering moment as she opens a seemingly innocuous package, only to be thrust into a realm of near-instant vaporization by a devastating explosion. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack unfurl the intricate threads of Stephen Beal's connection to Ildiko Krajnyak. They delve deep into the captivating dynamics that once defined the relationship between Beal and Krajnyak, former lovers and business partners, and explore the deadly explosion that tragically marked their intersecting paths. Alongside this narrative, Joe Scott and Dave illuminate facets of the human psyche, the complexities of relationships, and the intricate artistry involved in crafting lethal devices.    Time Codes: 00:00:20 - Joseph Scott Morgan introduces the potential inside a package, setting the episode's tone about potential energy and explosive themes, hinting at a devastating event where a package almost vaporized its opener. 00:03:20 - Stephen Beal, with his obsession as a model rocket hobbyist, is introduced as the episode's main subject. 00:04:20 - Dave Mack delves deeper into Beal's progression from model rockets to destructive explosives, he touches upon the mysterious circumstances surrounding Stephen's first wife, suggesting a potential link to Ildiko Krajnyak's case. 00:07:38 - Joe Scott discusses the challenges of assimilating into a new culture in the context of Ildiko, a Hungarian woman who was very attached to her family. 00:08:20 - Dave Mack elaborates on the professional relationship between Stephen and Ildiko Krajnyak after their romantic split with reflection on the complexities of maintaining business ties after a personal relationship ends. 00:10:40 - Dave gives insights into Ildiko Krajnyak's new romantic affiliations and Stephen's continued obsession with her. He narrates the tragic event when Ildiko was nearly vaporized after a package exploded as she opened it. 00:15:22 - Joseph Scott Morgan recalls a gas explosion from his past, shedding light on the horrors of such incidents. Dave Mack offers a riveting survivor's perspective on enduring an explosion. 00:18:31 - Morgan walks listeners through the investigator's precise methods in an explosion's aftermath, describes the challenges, and highlights the complexity of the task. 00:20:09 - The Olympic Park bombing is referenced, emphasizing the enduring trauma of explosion victims. 00:22:57 - Morgan describes the significance of minutiae at a crime scene, explaining the process of triaging survivors and securing a scene after an explosion, highlighting the potential of everything as evidence. 00:24:14 - Mack decodes the investigative process post-explosion, including deciphering the intended victim. The intricacies of blast trauma and bomb residue in forensic science are explained. 00:30:41 - Discussion of the complexities of constructing a lethal device with common materials, with emphasis on the importance of knowledge and access to the environment where the device will be placed. 00:32:07 - Dave Mack points out the immediate suspicions about Stephen Beal after Ildiko Krajnyak's tragedy and highlights the strategic search at Beal's residence, leading to explosive discoveries. 00:34:23 - Joe Scott Morgan expresses his suspicion over Beal's claim that he did not have the materials to create an explosion that large, pointing out the length of time it took for this case to make it through the systemSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10 Aug 202334min

Remains are found in two locations along the New York Coast. Legs are found in a plastic bag on Fire Island’s Blue Point Beach. A skull was found near the remains of Long Island Serial Killer victim Jane Doe No. 3, also known as “Peaches,” on a beach in Nassau County.  We now know the body parts are from the same victim:  Karen Vergata, 34, a mother of two.  It took nearly 30 years to identify the dismembered remains. The cause of death isn't known.  Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack look at the case of Fire Island Jane Doe.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

8 Aug 202319min

Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack provide an update and captivating insights into the intricacies of the Gilgo Beach case, the suspect, Rex Heuermann, and the challenges faced by investigators. Speculations arise surrounding Heuermann’s behaviors and the possibilities of further crimes despite his hiatus. They examine the intricacies of the case, the perplexing behavior of serial perpetrators, and how a deep understanding of forensics can shine a light on the darkest of mysteries.   Time codes: [00:00:20] Joseph Scott Morgan tells of Benjamin Parks' gold discovery in 1828, the biggest in America back then, likening the gold discovery to forensic investigation, where evidence demands meticulous searching. [00:02:00] Introduction to the episode’s main topic: the enigmatic Gilgo Beach murders and revelations of recent court developments. [00:03:20] Dave Mack outlines the consuming nature of the Gilgo Beach investigation. [00:04:00] Career impacts and missed chances due to the case's complications are touched upon by Joe Scott. [00:05:00] The hosts dive into Rex Heuermann's arrest, his closeness to the crime scene, and possible additional charges in connection to the Gilgo Beach murders. [00:06:20] Discussion on the recent court hearing for Heuermann and the significant evidence passed to the defense team. [00:08:11] Dave Mack reveals the vast manhours and resources put into the Gilgo Beach murder investigations and elucidates how Shannon Gilbert's separate case led to discovering the Gilgo Beach murders. [00:10:20] Heuermann's knowledge of Long Island, especially the waterways, and its potential use in evading detection is debated. [00:13:12] The late DNA cheek swab request from authorities becomes a point of intrigue. [00:15:27] The communication between Rex Humerman and his wife post-arrest sparks speculation. Joseph Scott Morgan contemplates whether Rex might have brought a victim to his residence. [00:17:20] Evidence removed from Hueurmann’s Long Island home indicates possible renovations as methods to conceal evidence. [00:20:00] The challenges of investigating a cluttered crime scene are delved into.  [00:23:07] The tragic victims involved in the case are introduced. Joe Scott speculates about the Gilgo victims' cause of death, the scarcity of physical evidence, and the puzzling behaviors of serial criminals. [00:26:00] Dave Mack addresses the murder's ongoing investigation and the nonexistence of a statute of limitations. The perpetrator's potential pause in crimes is questioned.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

8 Aug 202328min

11-year-old Martha Guzman's life is brutally cut short within a mere 30-minute timeframe at the hands of her mother's ex-boyfriend. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack delve deep into the harrowing details of Martha's murder, highlighting the tumultuous relationship casting a shadow over Martha’s domestic life and the implications it had on her mother's choices. Joe Scott draws attention to poignant details, in particular Martha’s painted fingernails. He further educates listeners on the chilling realities of wrist injuries and the dreadful intimidation wielded by knives.    Time-codes: [00:00:20] - Joseph Scott Morgan introduces the idea of time's fleeting nature and introduces the case of an 11-year-old girl whose life was taken within a 30-minute window. [00:01:32] - The heart-wrenching reveal of Martha Guzman’s murder. [00:08:06] -Dave Mack discusses Martha Guzman's home life, filled with chaos, alcohol, and abuse caused by her mother's boyfriend, Miguel Ruiz Lobo. Despite being only 11 years old, Martha recognized the toxicity of the relationship and convinced her mother to make the difficult decision to ask Lobo to leave. [00:09:00] - The perils of an unstable household with an abusive partner and Martha's mother’s desperate attempt for a restraining order. [00:10:22] - The gruesome details of the crime scene, along with a discussion about the shocking amount of blood resulting from sharp force injuries and the size disparity between the perpetrator and victim. [00:13:00] - Dave Mack and Joe Scott discuss how Miguel Ruiz Lobo attempted to blame Martha for her own injuries, claiming self-harm to stage her death as a suicide. [00:16:18] - Joseph Scott Morgan describes the horrifying moment a mother discovers her child's lifeless body and her desperate attempts to save the child. He talks about the mother's actions in the moment and the grim reality of the situation. [00:17:23] - Morgan recalls haunting memories, noting Martha’s painted nails. [00:23:51] - Discussion about the use of a knife as a means of terrorizing someone and an explanation of how it can be pressed against the skin to create a slight abrasion. [00:24:48] - Morgan explains the critical function of wrist tendons. [00:26:17] - Joe Scott and Dave touch on the nine-year-long journey to obtain justice for the victim, Martha Guzman. Joe Scott Morgan informs the audience of the outcome, bringing closure to this tragic case. [00:26:40] - The episode ends with a strong message urging anyone dealing with domestic abuse to seek help. Joseph Scott Morgan provides the National Domestic Violence Hotline number (1-800-799-SAFE) as a resource for those in need of assistance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

3 Aug 202326min

The FBI's investigation into James Knott's Kentucky home reveals a shocking discovery: 40 human skulls, femurs, hip bones, and spinal cords used as decorations. In response to this disturbing find, Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack delve deep into the complex and unsettling world of how human remains are treated, examining the blurred boundaries between respect and violation. Through personal stories, including that of a mortician's questionable actions and a chilling account of James Knott's home adorned with human skulls, the duo grapples with society's morbid fascinations. Additionally, they explore historical figures like William Burke and contemporary controversies surrounding Harvard Medical School. The episode culminates in a somber reflection on the trade of human trophies in our digital age, and discussion of ethical dilemmas surrounding these issues, prompting us to question our society's values and the importance of respecting the dignity of the deceased.   Time-codes: [00:00:20] - Joseph Scott Morgan gives an overview of his experience as a death investigator, introducing the episode's story about a man who worked for a prestigious institution and drove a car with vanity plate hinting at death [00:04:00] - Joe Scott narrates a shocking tale of a mortician's twisted expression of love, and argues that the dead are the most defenseless and that those in the mortuary industry should honor the dead. [00:06:20] - Dave Mack introduces the story of James Knott, a man in Kentucky whose home was raided by the FBI, leading to the discovery of 40 human skulls and other bones used as decorations. [00:07:44] - Insight into the intricate and complex process of dissecting human brains and spinal cords is shared. [00:10:13] - Joe's passion for history and architecture leads to a discussion on ossuaries in Portugal and Milan, Italy. [00:13:00] - Joe recounts the chilling response of James Knott to FBI agents during a warrant execution and raises questions about Knott's motives and activities, speculating on the possibility of him being a necrophile, grave robber, serial killer, or trafficker in human remains. [00:15:20] - A Harvard medical school bag's discovery thickens the plot around Knott. [00:16:37] - Dave probes the enigma of preparing human remains for display, including cleaning and sourcing the remains.  [00:19:40] - How can one acquire so many skulls? Joe presents his theories and also discusses methods of cleaning bones, including using bleach or a heating process.  [00:23:20] - Joseph Scott Morgan delves into the history of William Burke and William Hare, two serial killers known for selling bodies for medical dissections, and explains the prohibition against human dissections in medical schools during that period, leading to a market for human remains. [00:25:37] - The debate steers towards the legality and ethics of anatomical gifts, and the trust issues surrounding anatomical donations. Harvard Medical School's involvement in this case raises questions. 00:27:12] Morgan explains how certain individuals, including Cecil Lodge, former head of the Harvard Medical School Anatomical Gift Program, allegedly brokered human remains. [00:28:06] - A step-by-step journey through the body dissection process in medical schools. [00:29:38] - The morbid market of body parts as "souvenirs" is put under the spotlight. Dave highlights the modern-day horror of trading human trophies on social media. [00:32:00] - Joe Scott contemplates the future repercussions of the episode's revelations on industry regulations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1 Aug 202331min

Stephen and Carol Baxter are discovered deceased, peacefully positioned side by side in their recliners in their seaside home on Easter morning. With the cold winds of Great Britain and the serenity of their repose, carbon monoxide poisoning is the initial suspicion. As the layers of this puzzle unfurl, new clues emerge. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack dive into the mysterious deaths of a married couple, taking listeners on a journey through the complexities of crime scene investigations, the tragic dangers of carbon monoxide, and the lethal grasp of synthetic opioids. When the toxicology report unveils the presence of fentanyl in the couple's system, the case takes a darker turn.    Time-codes: [00:20] - Joe Scott Morgan sets the scene, discussing the unique coldness of being near the sea during cooler months. He then introduces the story of a married couple found dead in their home, initially suspected of carbon monoxide poisoning. [01:35] - Joe Scott discusses his love for Great Britain and how its unique environment affects the inhabitants, specifically referencing the couple in question, Stephen Baxter and his wife, Carol. [02:32] - Dave Mack describes the heartbreaking scene when the Baxter’s daughter, Ellie, finds her parents dead in their recliners. He discusses her immediate assumption of carbon monoxide poisoning and her actions to protect herself and her child. [04:50] - Joe Scott Morgan returns to the scene, providing a more precise location of the couple's home and the characteristics of the area. He talks about the first responders' initial investigation, noting the lack of signs of forced entry or struggle, and the importance of considering all possibilities in an investigation. [07:44] - The pivotal role of the initial reporter in a crime scene is highlighted. Joe stresses how their early observations can greatly influence the subsequent trajectory of the investigation, and shares a poignant moment when the daughter discovered her parents on Easter Sunday.  [10:00] - Morgan shares his harrowing personal experience with carbon monoxide, illuminating the silent dangers investigators face. This anecdote also serves as a potent reminder of the gas's deadly potential. [12:20] Mack questions how investigators transition from a peaceful scene to a full-blown investigation. Joseph Scott Morgan offers invaluable knowledge on the visual indicators of carbon monoxide poisoning, the process of checking for carbon monoxide in the house, and the role of the fire service. [15:00] - Morgan talks about the challenge investigators face when there are no signs of forced entry, external trauma, or carbon monoxide poisoning, raising the possibility of double suicide. He explains what investigators would look for at the scene, breaking down the evidential requirements that would substantiate such a claim. [17:40] - The lethal potential of carbon monoxide is revisited, focusing on its aftermath. Morgan and Mack discuss its deadly embrace and how it can deceive even the most seasoned investigators. [00:20:20] - The narrative zooms out, shedding light on the affluent life led by the Baxters. Their status and lifestyle add a new dimension, prompting questions of motive and involvement. [23:16] - Morgan explains the couple's health conditions and provides a crash course on the indicators of heroin usage at a crime scene. He reveals that the toxicology report for Mr. and Mrs. Baxter showed that they had fentanyl in their systems, a potent drug that has caused many deaths. [25:41] - The conversation expands to the societal implications of fentanyl misuse. By tracing its origins from medical utility to illicit usage, listeners are offered a broader context of the drug's devastating impact. [26:44] - Joe Scott Morgan reveals that three people have been charged in the Baxter's deaths.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

27 Jul 202327min

The trial of Taylor Schabusiness, accused in murder of her boyfriend Shad Thyrion is currently underway.  In this episode of Body Bags, hosts Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack look at the evidence coming out in the courtroom.   They discuss  the devastating impacts of drug usage, the murder weapons, and an unconventional dating relationship that culminated in Thyrion's brutal murder.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

26 Jul 202324min