Summary of "The Murder of Walter Page" Episode on Dark Downeast

Podcast Title: Dark Downeast
Host: Kylie Lowe
Episode Title: The Murder of Walter Page (New Hampshire)
Release Date: June 26, 2025

Introduction

In the gripping episode titled "The Murder of Walter Page," investigative journalist Kylie Lowe delves into the mysterious and tragic death of Walter Page, a respected member of the Freemasons in Manchester, New Hampshire. This episode meticulously unpacks the events leading up to Walter's untimely demise, the ensuing investigation, and the lingering questions that remain nearly three decades later.

Background of Walter Page

Walter Page was a 76-year-old investment broker and a dedicated Freemason who served as the treasurer of his local lodge for years. Renowned for his philanthropic efforts, Walter was instrumental in managing the finances of the lodge, especially after previous incidents of financial theft.

• Quote:
  "Walter Page was a longstanding member of the Freemasons in Manchester, New Hampshire. As treasurer of his local lodge, Walter had overseen the philanthropic efforts of their chapter for years."
  (00:01)

The Night of the Murder

On December 14, 1995, around 3 PM, Walter Page's home at 123 Walnut Hill Road was reported to be on fire. Firefighters battled the extensive blaze, only to discover Walter deceased in his basement office. Initial assumptions pointed to an accidental fire caused by a split heating oil tank, but deeper investigations revealed a more sinister reality.

• Quote:
  "Walter Page was found deceased in his basement office... Walter was reportedly known to keep two of everything, even oil tanks."
  (00:01 - 02:30)

Investigation and Initial Suspects

The investigation took a pivotal turn when it was revealed that, just hours before the fire, Walter, along with two other Freemasons, had received threatening anonymous phone calls. These calls warned of potential explosions targeting their homes, specifically mentioning Renee Lemire, an administrator convicted of embezzlement.

• Quote:
  "The caller told Walter they would blow up his house for, 'what he did to Renee Lemire.'"
  (12:15)

Despite these alarming threats, autopsy results contradicted the initial assumption of an accidental fire. Walter had sustained 12 stab wounds, indicating a clear homicide attempt that was concealed by setting his house ablaze.

• Quote:
  "Walter had suffered 12 stab wounds and it appeared that someone intentionally set his house ablaze in an attempt to cover the evidence."
  (02:30 - 05:00)

The Freemasons Context

Freemasonry, with its rich history and secretive practices, plays a central role in this case. Established in England in 1717, the organization has been both revered and scrutinized throughout American history. Walter's involvement in the Freemasons, especially amidst recent financial controversies, sets the stage for potential motives behind his murder.

• Quote:
  "Freemasonry is one of the largest and oldest fraternal organizations in the world... Their primary aim is to promote brotherhood and foster morality."
  (15:45 - 20:30)

Bonnie Bickford's Involvement

The investigation initially pointed towards Renee Lemire due to the threatening call, but further scrutiny revealed alarming discrepancies in the Masonic Service Association's finances. Bonnie Bickford, the wife of Carl Bickford (a fellow Masonic treasurer), emerged as a prime suspect after confessing to embezzling over $100,000.

Bonnie not only admitted to the financial theft but also took responsibility for the threatening phone calls and the placement of a Molotov cocktail at Conrad Ekdahl's home to divert suspicion from herself.

• Quote:
  "Bonnie admitted to stealing money from the organization and gave responsibility for the threatening phone calls to stop the investment meeting."
  (25:10 - 30:00)

Despite being a beloved member of the community, Bonnie's actions shattered the trust within the Freemasons, leading to her indictment on multiple counts of theft and arson. However, her connection to Walter's murder remains legally uncharged, leaving the case unsolved.

• Quote:
  "Bonnie Bickford has never been charged with any crimes as it relates to Walter Page's death. She remains innocent until proven guilty in a court of law."
  (31:20 - 32:00)

Legal Proceedings and Parole

Bonnie's legal journey saw her pleading guilty to theft and arson, resulting in a prison sentence with deferred terms for the arson charge. After serving four and a half years, she was granted parole in 2000, a decision met with strong opposition from Manchester police and Walter's family. Despite parole conditions, suspicion lingers over her potential involvement in Walter's murder.

• Quotes:
  "We are still investigating the death of Walter Page. We are still very much interested in Bonnie Bickford." – Deputy Chief James Stewart
  (29:50)

  "Bonnie was a treacherous person and her return to Manchester felt like a great injustice." – Chief Mark Driscoll
  (32:00)

Aftermath and Current Status

Nearly 30 years have passed since Walter Page's murder, yet justice remains elusive. The case is still open, with Bonnie Bickford being the only named suspect, albeit never charged for the murder itself. The destruction of Walter's home by fire significantly hampered the investigation, erasing vital physical evidence.

Walter's family continues to seek closure, remembering him fondly and yearning for answers. His legacy is commemorated through personal stories and symbolic gestures, such as the unofficial naming of a star "Walt" in his honor.

• Quote:
  "Walter shined throughout his 76 years, just as a star shines down upon the earth." – Dennett, Walter's daughter
  (32:50)

Despite Bonnie's parole and the passage of time, the cold case remains active, urging anyone with information to reach out to the New Hampshire Department of Justice Cold Case Unit.

• Call to Action:
  "If you have any information relating to the unsolved homicide of Walter Page, please submit a tip to the New Hampshire Department of Justice Cold Case Unit..."
  (32:55)

Conclusion

Kylie Lowe's episode on Walter Page's murder offers a comprehensive exploration of a complex case intertwined with fraternal organizations, financial deceit, and unresolved grief. As the investigation persists, the community remains hopeful that the shadows obscuring Walter's final days will one day be lifted, bringing the justice he and his family deserve.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• "Walter Page was a longtime member of the Freemasons in Manchester, New Hampshire."
  (00:01)

• "They would blow up Walter's house for, 'what he did to Renee Lemire.'"
  (12:15)

• "Bonnie admitted to stealing money from the organization and gave responsibility for the threatening phone calls to stop the investment meeting."
  (25:10 - 30:00)

• "Bonnie Bickford has never been charged with any crimes as it relates to Walter Page's death."
  (31:20 - 32:00)

• "Walter shined throughout his 76 years, just as a star shines down upon the earth."
  (32:50)

This summary encapsulates the crucial elements of the tragic murder of Walter Page, offering listeners a detailed understanding of the case, the investigative hurdles, and the enduring quest for justice by his family and the community.