After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal

Episode Summary: Victorian Love Triangle Murder

Release Date: August 14, 2025
Hosts: Anthony Delaney & Maddy Pelling
Title: Bermondsey Horror

1. Introduction to the Bermondsey Horror

In this gripping episode titled "Victorian Love Triangle Murder," hosts Anthony Delaney and Maddy Pelling delve deep into one of 19th-century London's most sinister crimes—the murder of Patrick O'Connor by Frederick and Marie Manning in 1849. Set against the backdrop of Dickensian London, the narrative explores themes of love, greed, and societal decay.

2. Setting the Scene: Victorian London

Anthony Delaney [02:34]:
"London, 1849. The city groans under the weight of the industrial age... Rats skitter along gutters, cold dust clings to the skin, and secrets are buried in brickwork."

The episode paints a vivid picture of London during its industrial peak, highlighting the stark contrast between wealth and poverty. Bermondsey, one of the most notorious slums, serves as the chilling setting where the crime unfolds.

3. Introducing the Central Figures

Marie Deroux:

• Background: Swiss-born, moved to England at 28.
• Occupation: Initially a lady's maid for the daughter of the Duchess of Sutherland.
• Transformation: Leaves her prestigious position under mysterious circumstances to reside in Bermondsey.

Maddy Pelling [04:55]:
"Marie had been a ladies' maid in a fine household, but somehow she ends up in the grimy slums of Bermondsey. It's a drastic change that raises many questions."

Patrick O'Connor:

• Profile: A 50-year-old wealthy Irish customs officer and moneylender.
• Assets: Constantly carries cash due to his profession and holds valuable railway shares.

Frederick Manning:

• Age: 37
• Occupation: Former railway worker.
• Relationship to Marie: Marie's husband, involved in plotting the murder for financial gain.

4. The Love Triangle and Motive

The intricate relationships between Marie, Patrick, and Frederick form the crux of the story. Marie, previously O'Connor's lover, conspires with her husband Frederick to murder him for his wealth.

Anthony Delaney [06:11]:
"Marie leaves her esteemed position and ends up in Bermondsey. Coupled with her past relationship with Patrick, it sets the stage for betrayal driven by greed."

Maddy Pelling [09:14]:
"This is a moment where Queen Victoria's only been on the throne for 12 years, so we're not that far into what is going to be a very long reign. And there's a backdrop... of soot and grime."

5. The Night of the Murder

August 9th, 1849 marks the tragic night when Patrick O'Connor visits the Manning household. What was intended as a dinner invitation turns into a gruesome murder.

Anthony Delaney [19:08]:
"Marie specifically shot Patrick in the back of the head. Frederick then bludgeoned him up to 17 times with a crowbar, resulting in a brutal and chaotic murder."

Maddy Pelling [21:12]:
"When you shoot someone in the head at close quarters, just try and get it right. How is he not dead? That's grim and brutal and very sad."

6. The Aftermath and Investigation

Following the murder, Frederick and Marie attempt to cover their tracks, only to find that their expectations fall short. Patrick had his money carefully stashed away, rendering their financial gain minimal.

Anthony Delaney [29:06]:
"They were disappointed to find how little he had on him. They had anticipated a windfall, but instead, they only managed to steal a few valuables and items from his lodgings."

Maddy Pelling [30:14]:
"Pursuing financial gain led them into this horrifying situation, and their miscalculations only deepened their predicament."

7. The Unraveling and Capture

As suspicions arise, the police begin their investigation. Utilizing early forensic techniques, they identify Patrick's body via dental records and quickly trace the culprits.

Anthony Delaney [37:47]:
"The body was discovered under the kitchen flagstones, and through his dentist, they confirmed it was Patrick O'Connor."

Maddy Pelling [38:12]:
"They approached cab drivers and eventually tracked Marie to Edinburgh, where she was recognized by a pawnbroker trying to sell Patrick's possessions."

Frederick, attempting to flee, was captured in Jersey while aiming for Australia, illustrating their desperate attempts to escape justice.

8. The Trial and Public Execution

Both Frederick and Marie were swiftly brought to trial at the Old Bailey, found guilty, and sentenced to death—a rare joint sentencing for both husband and wife.

Anthony Delaney [46:28]:
"Their trial was reported almost the next day across the country. Both were found guilty and sentenced to death, an unusual fate for both."

Maddy Pelling [47:34]:
"The press portrayed Marie as a manipulative woman, fueling public outrage and fascination."

Their execution on November 13, 1849, was a public spectacle drawing thousands, reflecting the societal attitudes towards crime and punishment during the era.

9. Societal Impact and Reflections

The episode concludes by examining the broader societal implications of the case, including the push towards ending public executions and the role of media sensationalism in shaping public perception.

Anthony Delaney [53:03]:
"This case contributed to the growing debate against public executions, highlighting the need for reform in how justice was administered."

Maddy Pelling [53:51]:
"The Bermondsey Horror not only shocked the public but also influenced legislative changes, marking a shift in societal attitudes towards capital punishment."

10. Final Thoughts

Anthony and Maddy reflect on the enduring mysteries of the case, acknowledging the gaps in historical records while emphasizing the captivating nature of the Bermondsey Horror.

Anthony Delaney [53:56]:
"There is so much more to this case that we wish we could uncover, but what remains only adds to its intrigue."

Maddy Pelling [54:39]:
"This case pushes the public conversation forward, intertwining intimate domestic drama with the grim realities of Victorian justice."

Notable Quotes:

• Anthony Delaney [02:34]:
  "Rats skitter along gutters, cold dust clings to the skin, and secrets are buried in brickwork."

• Maddy Pelling [09:14]:
  "We're in the 1840s. This is acceptable. I'm good to go."

• Anthony Delaney [19:08]:
  "Marie specifically shot Patrick in the back of the head. Frederick then bludgeoned him up to 17 times with a crowbar."

• Maddy Pelling [21:12]:
  "When you shoot someone in the head at close quarters, just try and get it right. How is he not dead?"

• Anthony Delaney [46:28]:
  "Their trial was reported almost the next day across the country. Both were found guilty and sentenced to death."

• Maddy Pelling [53:51]:
  "The Bermondsey Horror not only shocked the public but also influenced legislative changes."

This episode of "After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal" masterfully intertwines historical analysis with engaging storytelling, offering listeners a comprehensive view of a dark chapter in Victorian London's history. Through meticulous research and insightful commentary, Anthony and Maddy shed light on the complexities of the Bermondsey Horror, making it a standout episode for history enthusiasts and true crime aficionados alike.