Crime House True Crime Stories
Episode: DISAPPEARANCES: The Candy Heiress & The Girl at the Bus Stop
Release Date: February 17, 2025
Introduction
In this gripping episode of Crime House True Crime Stories, host Vanessa Richardson delves into two enigmatic disappearance cases that have left indelible marks on true crime history. Tied together by the unsettling theme of vanishings, the episode explores the mysterious disappearances of Helen Voorhees Brock in 1977 and 8-year-old Cherry Mahan in 1985.
Case 1: The Vanishing of Helen Voorhees Brock (1977)
Background and Early Life
Helen Voorhees Brock, a 65-year-old millionaire, led a life of luxury, inheriting over $20 million after the death of her husband, Frank Brock, in 1970. Despite her wealth, Helen's origins were humble; she hailed from a working-class family in Ohio and moved to Florida at 38, where she worked as a coat check girl before marrying Frank Brock.
"[Helen] became a bit reclusive, choosing to keep the lights off and the shades drawn."
— Vanessa Richardson [04:28]
Disappearance Details
On February 17, 1977, after a routine physical at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, Helen returned home to Glenview, Chicago. Accompanied by her trusted houseman, Jack Matlick, Helen was supposed to fly back to Florida. However, she never arrived.
"Helen's disappearance stunned the Chicago area and why her case still haunts so many people."
— Vanessa Richardson [00:06]
Investigation and Suspects
Initially, Jack Matlick emerged as the prime suspect due to inconsistencies in his account, financial transactions benefiting him, and suspicious activities surrounding Helen's estate. Despite his eventual death in 2011, deeper investigations years later implicated Richard Bailey, Helen's boyfriend, who was involved in fraudulent activities.
"Richard pleaded the Fifth over and over, even for basic questions like whether or not he knew Helen."
— Vanessa Richardson [12:53]
Legal Proceedings and Aftermath
In 1994, Richard Bailey was convicted of conspiracy to murder Helen, serving 30 years in prison. However, Helen's body remains undiscovered, leaving her case officially unsolved.
"Until it is, many still yearn for answers."
— Vanessa Richardson [12:53]
Case 2: The Disappearance of Cherry Mahan (1985)
Background and Family Life
Cherry Mahan, an 8-year-old girl from Winfield Township, Pennsylvania, lived with her mother, Janice McKinney, and stepfather, Leroy. Born from a traumatic experience, Cherry's early life was marred by her mother's struggle to provide a loving home.
"Cherry had been raped and became pregnant with Cherry. She decided to embrace motherhood and Cherry became her whole life."
— Vanessa Richardson [31:19]
The Day She Disappeared
On February 22, 1985, Cherry boarded her school bus to return home but never arrived. Witnesses reported seeing a distinctive blue van with a mountain and skier mural trailing the bus, sparking early investigative leads.
"Cherry was bundled up pretty well... She even had on a pair of Cabbage Patch Kids earmuffs to keep her ears toasty."
— Vanessa Richardson [23:25]
Investigation Efforts
The investigation saw extensive community involvement, including volunteer searches and media campaigns. Despite these efforts, the distinctive van remained elusive, and no concrete evidence surfaced linking Cherry's disappearance to any suspect.
"NBC did a reenactment to compel its audiences to come forward with information."
— Vanessa Richardson [31:19]
Ongoing Mysteries and Recent Developments
Years passed with sporadic leads, including anonymous letters and potential sightings, none of which provided definitive answers. As of June 2024, Cherry's case remains active, with continued efforts to uncover the truth.
"Police say they investigate each of these tips and have even fingerprinted some of the potential cherries."
— Vanessa Richardson [31:19]
Comparative Analysis
Both Helen Brock and Cherry Mahan's cases underscore the profound anguish families endure when a loved one disappears without a trace. While Helen's disappearance eventually led to a conviction, Cherry's case remains shrouded in uncertainty, highlighting the complexities and challenges inherent in true crime investigations.
"We can only hope that one day it will all stop and both of these cases will be definitively solved."
— Vanessa Richardson [31:19]
Conclusion
Vanessa Richardson masterfully intertwines the narratives of Helen Brock and Cherry Mahan, offering listeners a deep dive into the heart-wrenching realities of disappearances. Through meticulous research and poignant storytelling, the episode not only recounts these tragic events but also pays homage to the enduring hope for resolution and closure.
Notable Quotes:
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"When it comes to Helen Brock, it seems inconceivable that someone so high profile could vanish without a trace."
— Vanessa Richardson [00:06] -
"One day there will just be the truth."
— Vanessa Richardson [12:53] -
"Cherry was the first mailer child."
— Vanessa Richardson [31:19]
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