Clues Podcast Episode Summary: "MURDERED: Kim Wall"

Release Date: August 13, 2025
Hosts: Morgan Absher and Kaylin Moore
Produced by: Crime House, Powered by PAVE Studios

Introduction

In the gripping episode titled "MURDERED: Kim Wall," hosts Morgan Absher and Kaylin Moore delve into the tragic and perplexing case of Swedish journalist Kim Wall. This episode meticulously unpacks the sequence of events leading to Kim's disappearance, the subsequent investigation, and the chilling revelations about her murderer, Peter Madsen. Throughout the episode, the hosts provide a detailed forensic analysis, uncovering hidden details and scrutinizing overlooked evidence that ultimately cracked the case wide open.

Background: Who Was Kim Wall?

Kim Wall was an accomplished and fearless journalist born in 1987 in Sweden. Raised in a family of journalists, her passion for reporting was evident from a young age. By the time she was 26, Kim had already made significant strides in her career, writing for prestigious publications and undertaking daring assignments—from North Korea to the Marshall Islands.

Kaylin Moore highlights Kim's dedication:

"[Kim] was so passionate and curious about the world. She wanted to share the stories of marginalized communities, going to the ends of the earth to tell their tales."
(06:54)

The Fateful Meeting with Peter Madsen

In August 2017, Kim Wall received a promising opportunity to interview Peter Madsen, a Danish inventor described as the “Danish Elon Musk.” Madsen invited Kim aboard his personal submarine, the Nautilus, for an exclusive interview and a submarine ride.

Kim's enthusiasm was palpable as she prepared for the trip:

"I'm about to move for a new journalism opportunity... But this story is huge access for Kim and she doesn't want to just let this opportunity go."
(01:29)

Despite concerns about timing, Kim decided to embark on the submarine ride alone, trusting her partner, Ul, to host their going-away party.

Disappearance and Initial Investigation

On August 10, 2017, Kim boarded the Nautilus for what was supposed to be a short excursion around Copenhagen harbor. Shortly after, communication with Kim ceased, and Ul became alarmed when she failed to return.

Morgan Absher narrates the growing concern:

"He was really worried. Kim was only supposed to be gone for like an hour, maybe two, but she didn't come back."
(10:30 AM)

The Danish Coast Guard launched an extensive search, utilizing helicopters, boats, and even cadaver dogs, but Kim remained missing.

Peter Madsen's Inconsistent Stories

Peter Madsen initially reported a mechanical failure causing the Nautilus to take on water, leading to its sinking. He claimed to have dropped Kim off safely onshore before the submarine sank.

Kaylin Moore expresses suspicion:

"It sounds a little fishy. This is 2017, modern times. We have cell phones. There was no call for help, no Mayday."
(24:03)

However, surveillance footage revealed no evidence of Kim being dropped off, contradicting Madsen’s account. Madsen's demeanor remained nonchalant, even performing a public thumbs-up gesture while the submarine was sinking.

Discovery of Kim Wall's Remains

Eleven days after her disappearance, a cyclist discovered Kim's dismembered torso on Amar Island's southern coastline. Further remains, including her head and legs, were found later, accompanied by metal pieces and a handsaw, indicating a deliberate and gruesome disposal of her body.

Morgan Absher underscores the horror:

"She had been stabbed 15 times, mostly in the groin. Which makes Peter's story even more difficult to believe."
(41:22)

Autopsies revealed no signs of head injury, directly refuting Madsen’s initial claim.

Unraveling Peter Madsen's True Nature

Investigations into Peter Madsen unveiled a deeply disturbing character. Former colleagues and volunteers described his erratic behavior, violent temper, and an obsession with Nazi memorabilia. Moreover, evidence surfaced showing his fascination with snuff films—videos depicting real-life torture and murder.

Kaylin Moore reflects on Madsen's psychology:

"He was looking for the darkest stuff you could find, the darkest on the Internet."
(53:04)

Text messages with a former partner revealed chilling threats and detailed plans resembling the murder of Kim Wall.

The Trial and Conviction

In March 2018, Peter Madsen stood trial in a Danish court with a small jury panel designed to ensure impartiality. Throughout the trial, Madsen presented varying, contradictory versions of events, each failing to align with the physical evidence and psychological assessments labeling him as a pathological liar with psychopathic traits.

Kaylin Moore critiques Madsen’s courtroom demeanor:

"He talks about himself as if he's not human, detached from the reality of his actions."
(62:14)

On April 25, 2018, the judge delivered a verdict:

"Peter Madsen was found guilty of premeditated murder, aggravated sexual assault, and desecration of a corpse."
(70:14)

He was sentenced to life in prison, marking the culmination of a harrowing case that exposed the depths of deceit and brutality behind his façade.

Aftermath and Legacy

Post-trial, Peter Madsen attempted a daring prison escape but was swiftly recaptured, resulting in an additional 21 months added to his sentence. Meanwhile, Kim Wall's family established the Kim Wall Memorial Fund to honor her legacy by supporting female and non-binary journalists committed to telling untold stories.

Morgan Absher emphasizes Kim's enduring impact:

"The person that matters in this story is Kim Wall. The life she would have had making such a huge difference out there."
(71:45)

The hosts encourage listeners to engage with Kim's writings and support initiatives that continue her mission of empathy and understanding.

Conclusion

The "MURDERED: Kim Wall" episode of Clues serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the depths of human depravity. Through meticulous storytelling and forensic analysis, Morgan Absher and Kaylin Moore honor Kim Wall's memory while unraveling the complexities of her tragic demise. This episode not only sheds light on a heinous crime but also celebrates the indomitable spirit of a journalist dedicated to unveiling the world's hidden truths.

Notable Quotes:

• "I'm still alive by the way but going down now. I love you!!!"
  Ul to Kim
  (12:00)

• "You have to divide it up into something smaller, horrible."
  Peter Madsen
  (62:14)

• "Kim had spent so long in the water by this point that a lot of that crucial forensic evidence had been destroyed by the elements."
  Kaylin Moore
  (42:22)

Resources for Further Exploration:

• Kim Wall Memorial Fund: gofundme.com/rememberingkimwall
• Remembrance and Tributes: rememberingkimwall.com
• Book: "A Silenced: The Life of Journalist Kim Wall"

For more compelling true crime stories and in-depth analyses, subscribe to Clues on YouTube or your preferred podcast platform. Follow us on Instagram @CluesPodcast and on YouTube @CluesPod for updates and exclusive content.