Better Get to Running

Summary

Podcast Summary – Fear Thy Neighbor

Episode: Better Get to Running
Date: August 25, 2025
Host: ID

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Overview

This episode of Fear Thy Neighbor, titled "Better Get to Running," explores the tragic escalation of a conflict between two families in the rural heartland outside Hagerstown, Indiana. What begins as minor annoyances between the retired Wilson couple and their new neighbors, the young Simpson-Southard family, spirals into a deadly feud fueled by personality clashes, property disputes, animal altercations, and unresolved resentment. The story is told through interviews, commentary from law enforcement, family, and neighbors, and features real 911 audio, culminating in a fatal day and the legal aftermath.

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Key Discussion Points and Episode Structure

Setting the Scene and Introductions

• Location: Countryside on the edge of Hagerstown, Indiana—quiet, open, rural farmland.
• The Wilsons: Billy Wilson, Vietnam vet, and his wife Mabel, inhabitants for nearly 40 years (04:09).
• The Simpsons-Southards: Young couple Casey Simpson and Rachelle Southard, two young kids, new to the area. Casey is a jack-of-all-trades with a passion for racing, and Rachelle a healthcare worker (05:15, 05:34).
• Initial Relations: Friendly and cordial beginnings—offers of leftover shingles, gentle neighbor interactions (07:09).
• Tone: From peaceful coexistence to simmering resentment.

Escalation of Tensions

• Lifestyle Clashes:
  – The Wilsons disapprove of the noise and perceived mess from Casey’s garage projects, ATV use, and parties (07:53, 08:10).
  – Nighttime incidents (fireworks, parties) disrupt Wilsons’ peace (08:46).
  – Perception divides: Rick Bush (town marshal) defends Casey’s property maintenance (08:22).

• Inciting Incidents:
  – Party on what Billy claims is a cemetery sparks emotional confrontation (11:15); Casey and friends unaware, as there are no visible markers (11:47, 11:57).

• Quotable Confrontations:

  “These are soldiers. They fought for our freedom. I fought in Vietnam for people like you. Now show some damn respect.”
  – Billy to Casey over fireworks on alleged graveyard (12:05).

Animal and Property Disputes

• New Family Member:
  – Casey gets a large, intimidating dog named Zeus. Frequent concerns about the dog roaming and threatening the Wilsons’ cat, Elsa (15:30–16:10).
• Gun Range Incident:
  – Zeus appears aggressive toward Billy at the local range, increasing Billy’s anxiety (16:27).
• Police Involvement:
  – Billy seeks advice from a VA psychologist; tries to remain calm (17:02).
  – After more altercations, Billy calls the sheriff, who tells him he can protect himself from the dog (18:34).

Violence Erupts

• Zeus is Shot:
  – Billy shoots Zeus, claiming self-defense. Dog was retreating when shot, based on wound location (19:20–20:39).
• Aftermath:
  – Police intervention, but no charges against Billy (20:49).
  – Relations worsen; Casey builds a fence for security but the boundary is disputed (21:25–23:15).
• Psychological Toll:
  – Both families feel besieged and unsafe. Casey installs surveillance; kids are barred from outside (23:15–23:32).

Retaliation and Tit-for-Tat

• Chickens Killed:
  – Rachelle’s chickens are mysteriously killed; suspicion falls on Billy but is unproved (26:52).
• Elsa the Cat is Killed:
  – Casey, still bitter over Zeus and the chickens, kills the Wilsons’ cat and leaves it in their yard (27:54).
• Cycle of Threats:
  – Direct threats escalate:

  “One day, I’m gonna take care of you. You and your kids.” – Billy to Rachelle (25:15)
  “It means I’m gonna shoot you all.” (25:20)

The Fatal Encounter

• Property Line Survey Showdown:
  – Surveyor confirms property line favors Casey, including Billy’s driveway (30:02). – Confrontation escalates; Billy loses control.
  • As Casey begins marking his new boundary, Billy threatens him:

    “You better get your ass back in the house before I shoot you.” – Billy (31:01)
    “You better get to running.” (31:13)

• Shooting:
  – Billy shoots Casey multiple times as he flees. Casey tries to escape and loses his gun (31:19–31:46). – Rachelle witnesses Billy approach the house with gun in hand, slams the door, and calls 911 (32:29).
• Real 911 Call (32:29):
  – Rachelle: “Please get in here now. Somebody’s trying to shoot you. I am kissing home.”
  – Billy calls 911, confesses shooting Casey, but claims self-defense (32:47).
  – Police arrive, Billy refuses initial commands, but is ultimately arrested (33:12).

Legal and Emotional Aftermath

• Casey’s Death:
  – Casey dies in hospital after being airlifted (33:59).

• Trial and Sentencing:
  – Billy Wilson is charged with first degree homicide; claims self-defense. The surveyor testifies Billy shot Casey as he fled, undermining self-defense (34:33, 34:52).
  – Convicted and sentenced to 48 years; shows no remorse (35:12, 35:22).

• Enduring Trauma:
  – Casey’s mother, Andrea, imparts a lesson:

  “Don’t ever think your neighbor won’t shoot you if they’re threatening it, because evidently they will... Avoid them at all costs. You just can’t explain how you feel when you lose a child... It just affects you so bad every day like you just can’t even imagine.” (36:01)

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Notable Quotes and Memorable Moments

• Early Tensions:
  • "At the beginning, everything was pretty good. I mean, I don’t think that they had cookouts and stuff, but it was at least peaceful." – Detective Andy Wandersea (07:27)
• On Billy’s Motivation:
  • "If they was talking, it wouldn’t be the greatest conversation to be in since New York. Neither one of them liked the other one." – Danny McMillan (13:57)
• Surveillance and Fear:
  • "Casey did install surveillance cameras on the house because they were afraid of Billy’s threats." – Andy Wandersea (23:15)
• On the Shootings:
  • “Shot a dog. Shot the owner. Claimed self-defense on both occasions. Eyewitness testimony clearly pointed the other way.” – Andrea Simpson (34:57)
• Final Lesson:
  • "Don’t ever think your neighbor won’t shoot you if they’re threatening it because evidently they will … avoid them at all costs." – Andrea Simpson (36:01)

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Key Timestamps of Important Segments

• Rural Setting and Character Introductions: 03:50–05:26
• First Hospitality Turned Sour: 07:09–08:32
• Party Incident on “Cemetery” Land: 10:46–12:17
• Clash over Dog Zeus and Gun Range Attack: 15:30–16:45
• Billy Shoots the Dog: 19:16–20:39
• Cat is Killed in Retaliation: 27:38–28:14
• Showdown at Property Line, Surveyor’s Ruling: 29:56–30:32
• Deadly Confrontation and Shooting: 31:01–32:29
• Real 911 Calls: 32:29–32:56
• Casey’s Death and Legal Resolution: 33:59–35:22
• Reflection from Casey’s Mother: 36:01–36:41

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Tone and Reflection

The story is marked by a sense of mounting dread, disbelief at how small grievances can spiral into tragedy, and the heartbreak of irreparable loss for both families and community. The speakers candidly share sorrow, anger, and lessons hard-won through traumatic experience.

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This episode of Fear Thy Neighbor offers a visceral illustration of how resentment, pride, and lack of mediation can irreparably destroy lives—warning listeners of the deadly potential lurking even in the quietest neighborhoods.

Transcript

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Acast.com Most violent crimes that capture the public's imagination are about serial killers, mass shooters crimes, crimes of passion, or clashes among underworld figures. Yet some of the most shocking and deadly conflicts we encounter are between everyday neighbors in ordinary neighborhoods. Their seemingly minor quibbles escalate until violence erupts and it impacts an entire community. What makes a good neighbor go bad? We may never truly know, but heed this warning about the terrible things that can happen when even the pettiest disagreements pass the point of no return and good neighbors become worst enemies. How can you sleep at night when the person you fear or hate the most lives right next door? We're in the American heartland, where two neighboring homes in the countryside sit circle, surrounded by wide open spaces and big blue skies. In one residence is a long retired couple living out their golden years in the other, two newly arrived young parents happy to be raising their children in a rural setting. The encounters between the neighbors are friendly, warm and welcoming. Until they're not. What was annoying becomes intractable and intractable becomes dangerous as heels are dug in and threats escalate to a point of no return. This is fear thy neighbor. Better get to running. The countryside on the outskirts of Hagerstown, Indiana, is home to rich farmland and easygoing people. Here's Indiana State Police Detective Andy Wandersea and true crime podcaster Heather Curran.

[E]

It's more of a rural area, a few houses here and there, but mostly farms and farm fields.

[G]

Hagerstown, Indiana, attracts young people and retirees looking for quiet country living.

[H]

Everybody is just in a big family or group or whatever. Everybody knows everybody else, and that's just the way small towns are.

[A]

That last speaker is Danny McMillan, an area resident, friend and former coworker of Billy Wilson, one of the central figures in this story. Billy is a retired Vietnam veteran. He and his wife Mabel have lived in the same house on Brick Church Road for nearly four decades lately with their adopted stray cat, Elsa. Danny worked with Billy for years in a local construction plant.

[H]

Well, they was older people, so they didn't get out in the yard much. They was basically in house.

[G]

Billy and Mabel lived beside an older couple for years who they got along with.

[A]

But when their longtime next door neighbors sell their home, new neighbors move in.

[B]

Mom, can I go next, hon?

[A]

Work before play.

[D]

Too late. I told you they'd love Go Karts.

[A]

Rachelle Southard and Casey Simpson know each other from their high school days and have only recently reconnected. Rachelle is a healthcare worker with two young kids from a previous relationship.

[F]

She was young, pretty, long hair. She had two children, Gavin and Emma. And, you know, she was a young mom and she kind of reminded me of myself a little bit.

[A]

We just heard from Casey's mother, Andrea Simpson. As she explains, Casey rises to the occasion as stepfather.

[F]

I saw him use real patience with the kids, putting them on the four wheelers and stuff. He would show them how, you know, what to do and what not to do.

[D]

See what he's doing. Two hands on the wheel. I want you to be doing that. Always do that.

[F]

I think Casey liked being the dad figure to them. He always said that he didn't want to have children, and I think this was a way he didn't have to. He had a girlfriend that already had kids and he loved them like his own.

[A]

Casey's dedication to Rachelle's children is also noted by Rick Bush, a town marshal with the Greens Fork Police Department.

[I]

Casey pretty much raising them kids as his own. It's kind of neato, you know, seeing a young guy take on a family that's not his.

[A]

The stepfather is a jack of all trades with a passion for racing cars.

[F]

He would just take off and go and he would pass everybody and win. He's got trophies at home.

[A]

When he's not racing, Casey loves working on his new house, which includes a chicken coop out back.

[F]

Do we have to do this?

[D]

Yeah, we got to do this, buddy. You called poop duty? You're on poop duty.

[I]

You know, he was looking at doing different projects in the house, in the yard, in the back. He was just wanting to start, you know, start building his life with a Rochelle.

[A]

Someone who looks after his property is just the kind of neighbor the Wilsons were looking for.

[B]

Howdy, neighbors. Oh, our last neighbor mentioned the coupe had a leety roof. We got some leftover shingles if you need them.

[D]

Actually, that would be incredible. I was just thinking about what to do next. Billy Wilson.

[B]

Nice to meet you. Hi.

[D]

Kc. Yeah, this is Rochelle. Rochelle, Gavin M. Hi, I'm Maple.

[F]

Hi.

[D]

Pleased to meet you.

[A]

According to Andy Wandersea, things get off to a promising start.

[E]

At the beginning, everything was pretty good. I mean, I don't think that they had cookouts and stuff, but it was at least peaceful.

[A]

But as Danny McMillan tells us, the young family makes a lot more noise than the Wilsons are used to.

[B]

What a racket.

[H]

Casey had the ATVs and the cars back there at the garage and all that kind of stuff. He was working on something all the time, so it was quiet at one house. And there's always something going on at Casey's house.

[A]

And it's not just the clamor that bothers the Wilsons.

[G]

Billy and Mabel weren't happy about having a scrap yard next door.

[E]

They didn't like all the stuff that was in the back of the yard.

[A]

Marshal Rick Bush disputes this description of KC's property.

[I]

It wasn't a junkyard or anything. His four wheeler was out back and I think there were some toys and stuff out back as well. There was nothing that would indicate it was anything but a taken care of house.

[A]

Yet no one disputes a late night incident that rouses the elderly Wilsons from their sleep. It all starts with a bang.

[F]

What are they doing?

[B]

Some kind of party?

[F]

I know that they were shooting off fireworks. He had ping pong table out there. He had a drum set out there.

[A]

It's no secret that Casey likes to have a good time when he parties. And some might even argue that he can be a little reckless.

[F]

Casey was riding his four wheeler in his yard at like two in the Morning, and he had had a couple drinks, I think, and he wrecked the four wheeler in his own yard.

[A]

Yet when a police officer stops by by, it's not to ask KC to keep it down. It's to join the festivities.

[I]

He knew the Hagerstown officer. I mean, he lived in that area all of his life. So I'm sure that he knew some of the Hagerstown and some of the county guys and whatever. I mean, it's not illegal to go to a party in uniform. I guess it depends on what kind.

[B]

Of party it is, ladies, but hey, okay.

[A]

But the sight of a police officer partying with KC has Billy feeling a certain way. So the next morning, as Casey is cleaning up his yard, Billy pays him a visit.

[B]

You had a party last night?

[D]

Yeah. Rochelle got off work at midnight, so we started a little late.

[B]

Thought I saw a policeman. Must be nice to have friends like that.

[D]

I guess. Yeah.

[G]

Billy was convinced Casey had a special in with police. He thought he was friends with a lot of them.

[B]

You fired this bottle rocket last night. Hit my truck.

[D]

Oh, man. Hey, I'm really sorry about that. I promise it won't happen again.

[B]

I'd appreciate that.

[F]

Bottle rockets don't exactly go straight. They can wiggle around. The wind can get him. So they did not aim it at his house.

[A]

The next time Casey has a get together, he moves it out of the yard so as not to bother his neighbors. But it doesn't help.

[D]

Ok, get ready. I got a whole other box to fire off.

[B]

Woo.

[F]

They decided to take the fireworks out front, probably because Wilson complained about him doing it in their backyard.

[A]

Unfortunately, Casey's new party spot only sparks further animosity between the households.

[B]

What the hell, Mabel? This is desecration.

[A]

It turns out Casey is setting off fireworks on what his neighbor considers sacred ground.

[B]

What the hell are you doing?

[D]

What's the problem?

[B]

This is a graveyard. A cemetery. Have you no respect?

[D]

What? What are you talking about?

[F]

He comes out accusing Casey and his friends of being disrespectful to the dead that nobody even knew were there except Wilson.

[A]

Chief Deputy Prosecutor Ashley Green tells us there's no way Casey could have known where he was stand.

[J]

There's nothing in the area that you would look at it and instantly know it's a cemetery. It's not like a normal one with large grave markers.

[A]

Still, Billy goes off on KC Pointing out a flat piece of stone embedded in the earth he insists is a burial plaque.

[B]

These are soldiers. They fought for our freedom. I fought in Vietnam for people like you. Now show some damn respect.

[A]

After this incident, the hostility on both sides becomes entrenched, and both sides are about to reach the point of no return. I'm not switching my team to some.

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[C]

I'm Dennis Cooper, host of Culpable, and I want to tell you about this case I've been following in a small Ohio town. When 17 year old Danny Violet stormed out of his house one afternoon in 1998, his family thought it was just another episode of Teenage Angst. But their worst fears materialized when his lifeless, asphyxiated body was later found in a nearby cornfield. The question remains, what happened to Danny? From Tenderfoot tv An all new season of Culpable is available now.

[A]

As Casey's mom, Andrea Simpson and Billy's co worker Danny McMillan explain, the two feuding neighbors are seemingly unable to put their disagreements aside.

[F]

Casey found out that Billy had been in the service, had been in Vietnam. He thought that he just used that as an excuse to be mean and nasty.

[H]

If they was talking, it wouldn't be the greatest conversation to be in since New York. Neither one of them liked the other one.

[A]

It's a sentiment also echoed by prosecutor Ashley Green.

[J]

Billy and Mabel both described their new neighbors as loud. They just were not good neighbors.

[A]

Through it all, life goes on soon, bringing an exciting development to Casey and Rachelle's home.

[D]

So we got some big news.

[B]

Really?

[F]

What?

[D]

Got a brand new job.

[B]

That's cool.

[F]

He ended up finding a new way to make better money and be home more. He became a truck driver, a hotshot driver. So he had to drive with his own truck and trailer.

[A]

And mommy is gonna quit her job so we can spend more time together at home.

[B]

Yes. Yeah.

[A]

Not only that, but Rachelle has an idea to make some pocket money on the side while she's at home.

[F]

Rachelle babysat for some friends of hers and she babysat for us.

[A]

Casey and Rachelle's new work arrangements proved to be an adjustment for everyone. True Crime podcaster Heather Curran explains.

[G]

Billy and Mabel had to endure even more disturbance. Not only did they feel they were living next door to a scrapyard, but now there was a bunch of noisy kids next door, which disturbed their peace even more.

[A]

And just when the Wilsons think things can't deteriorate any further, the Simpsons welcome a new family member. Zeus.

[F]

And he's a pretty big, muscular dog. And he is scary looking.

[G]

Billy describes Casey training his dogs in his yard by holding up a rope and having Zeus jump and hang from it.

[F]

Why would he get a dog like that?

[B]

To scare people. Come here.

[A]

Zeus may be well trained, but when Casey's not home, his pet roams free. And that spells trouble for the Wilsons cat, Elsa.

[F]

Zeus would see the cat chase the cat. The cat would run. I told you that dog was dangerous.

[G]

Billy and Mabel did not like Casey's dog. Billy thought that the pit bull breed was unpredictable. And Mabel had a fear of this dog.

[A]

Trouble carries over to the local gun range both families like to frequent. Nice shot, Casey. But as soon as Billy shows up, Zeus goes on the attack.

[G]

Zeus was growling and barking at him, and he felt like Casey sicced him on him.

[B]

Damn dog.

[A]

Casey, a little help here.

[B]

Zeus, stop. Get him away from me.

[D]

It's okay. It's okay.

[B]

You people.

[D]

Hey, you're a good boy, okay? You're a good man.

[A]

The stress from the ongoing conflict is getting to be too much for Billy. Unsure of what else to do, the veteran reaches out in search of help.

[G]

Billy visited a VA psychologist to ask for advice on how to deal with his neighbor. Billy suffered from PTSD from his experiences in the Vietnam War.

[F]

Hi, honey. What did the doctor say?

[B]

Whenever he confronts me? To stay calm and count from 10.

[A]

Soon, Billy is out by his driveway when this advice is put to the test.

[G]

When Billy was at the corner of his property, the dog was charging at him.

[B]

Stop.

[D]

Zeus, get out of here. I'm so sorry about that. I trained him to protect the property.

[A]

With these words, Casey opens a new front in the battle with his neighbor.

[B]

I'm not on your property.

[D]

Well, the previous owner said that the property ended here.

[F]

Wilson. He thought the driveway was his and part of the grass on the side.

[B]

I've lived here for 35 years. This has always been my land. Now you and your dog can get out of here.

[H]

That would be a trigger for Billy. He's possessive. And if you take something away from him, that would trigger him. Yes.

[D]

Look, Billy, I'm not looking for trouble. Zeus comes over, just raises her hand and yells, stop.

[B]

He'll stop. Six, five, three, two. I got a better idea. I'm gonna call the sheriff.

[G]

Billy calls the local sheriff's department to complain about Casey's. Dog coming onto his property.

[B]

Uh huh. Okay. I will do that. Thank you. Thank you very much.

[F]

What'd they say?

[B]

Sheriff's office said I could do whatever I need to do to protect myself.

[A]

Billy is determined to defend his home and property. And KC isn't going to allow the Wilsons to push his family around. Both men are content to keep their distance from each other, but that's easier said than done. Especially when their pets don't understand boundaries.

[G]

Mabel's cat was often spotted on Casey's property. And Casey's dog was often spotted roaming around on Billy and Mabel's property.

[A]

It's a recipe for disaster. And the feud is about to be taken one step further.

[B]

Get out of here.

[F]

They heard this. Pop, pop. And they open the door.

[B]

Zeus.

[F]

And Zeus is whining and bleeding.

[B]

You shot my dog. Are you crazy? It was on our property. You're a crazy old man. I'm gonna break your arms and your legs.

[H]

I didn't know it'd escalate to something like this.

[E]

Obviously. They rushed him to the vet's office. And then they also called the Wayne County Sheriff's Department and they came out and did an investigation.

[G]

Casey and Rachelle called the local police after Zeus was shot. However, Billy and Mabel call the sheriff's department as they do not trust the local police.

[A]

Each neighbor has a different story to tell. Bill claims his actions were completely justified.

[B]

Look, I've complained about that pit bull again and again. Your dispatch told me I could protect myself.

[D]

That is a bull. He's lying.

[B]

He is lying.

[F]

Wilson claimed that he was on his front porch and. And the dog was coming at him from Casey's house. So he shot him.

[B]

He's lying. He's lying. Your dog came on my property after.

[D]

Your cat comes on mine.

[B]

And Jason. He's always going for our cat. Get out of here, man.

[D]

You are lucky authorities are here.

[A]

Billy shows the police where he took aim at the dog. It's clearly on his land. Yet the bullet wounds suggest that Zeus was retreating when he was shot.

[F]

Casey told the police, look at my dog. He's shot in the butt. You know, he couldn't have been running toward Wilson to get shot in his butt.

[A]

Police leave without laying any charges.

[J]

Mr. Wilson was not arrested or charged related to the incident for shooting Zeus because he was on his property at the time it happened.

[F]

I feel like the police failed that day. They should have arrested him. You're not allowed to just shoot an animal.

[A]

The incident only stokes the ill will between neighbors. Thankfully, Zeus survives The shooting. But he's no longer safe to roam free. Casey must now keep him leashed, as instructed by police. But even that doesn't put Casey's mind at ease. So he gets to work on another project.

[D]

Look, there's no way around it. We have to build the fence.

[H]

He was tired of the neighbor doing what he does, being mean to his animals and stuff, so he decided he'd put a fence up.

[J]

Casey was ready to go to buy the supplies to install a fence that day. And he also grabbed some tools to start digging a hole to put a post up to mark the property line.

[A]

Oh, my God. You really weren't kidding.

[D]

By the end of this weekend. Bye. Bye, Billy.

[A]

I can't wait. But Billy has plans of his own, as relayed by Detective Andy Wandersea and Casey's mom, Andrea.

[E]

Hon, there was a shrub line that went down and kind of divided both of the properties.

[F]

Rochelle said they caught him out cutting on their bushes that run between the two properties.

[B]

Hey. Hey. Stop it.

[A]

What do you.

[D]

I wouldn't come on your property and do that.

[B]

Huh? This is my property. I'm gonna build a fence to keep your dog out.

[D]

I'll build a damn fence. But it's my property.

[B]

No, it ain't.

[D]

We've talked about this. The property line's over there. That's where I'm building my fence.

[A]

Heather Curran and Danny McMillan weigh in on the intractable positions the opposing men hold.

[G]

Billy and Casey could never agree on where the property line was located.

[H]

There's another situation where Casey's infringing on his space, trying to take advantage of him.

[B]

I'm calling the surveyor call.

[H]

He had to get it surveyed to know exactly where the line was at.

[A]

The fence is put on hold. But while Casey is stuck waiting for the survey, he won't let that stop him from protecting his family. So he invests in some extra security.

[E]

I do know that Casey did install surveillance cameras on the house because they were afraid of Billy's threats.

[A]

Oh, thank you, babe. But until that fence is built, I'm not letting the kids play outside. Okay. No more ATVs.

[D]

Okay.

[F]

Casey, and especially the kids, probably felt scared not being able to play outside, because who's to say he wouldn't shoot one of the kids on accident?

[A]

Billy hopes the property issue will get sorted once and for all.

[F]

Billy called a surveyor, and the surveyor came out, so surveyed the property. So this will prove to Casey that this is our property line?

[B]

Yep. Then we put up a fence and no more dog.

[A]

But things don't work out in Billy's favor. The survey sides with KC Evidently, Billy.

[F]

Didn'T like that response.

[B]

That kid doesn't know a damn thing. I'm calling somebody who knows how to do a damn survey.

[F]

So he ultimately called another surveyor.

[A]

Until a new verdict arrives, the Wilsons are forced to look at their neighbors a while longer. And what they see out their window drives Billy over the edge.

[B]

Mabel, look.

[E]

Rochelle is on her four wheeler. And so while she's riding there, she finds trash. And so she stated that she went over and picked up trash.

[A]

But as Billy sees it, his neighbors are once again desecrating the resting place of soldiers.

[B]

She's driving over the graves.

[F]

Here comes Wilson, yelling and screaming at her.

[B]

Get off that thing now. I told you this was a graveyard. And you, you showed no respect.

[A]

This time, it's Rochelle who fights back. I'm cleaning this place up. There's trouble. Trash everywhere. You know what? You show me some respect. Sri Billy answers Rachelle's demand with a threat, raising tensions even further.

[B]

One day, I'm gonna take care of you. You and your kids.

[A]

What is that supposed to mean?

[B]

It means I'm gonna shoot you all.

[F]

He told her, she better get in the house or he's gonna shoot her. I just thought that was freaking crazy. And I thought, you know, why would he do that? She was probably scared. Why would he shoot me? Why would someone really shoot me over something like this?

[A]

When KC Finds out what Billy said, he flies off the handle.

[B]

Billy, you threatened my girlfriend.

[D]

You were asking for trouble.

[B]

Enough.

[F]

He told him. You know, you hurt my family, and I'll shoot you.

[A]

For the Wilsons, the situation keeps getting worse.

[G]

Billy and Mabel felt like their peace was being disturbed and there was just no end in sight.

[A]

And Casey and Rachelle are sick of it all.

[G]

Casey and Rachelle were feeling very frustrated and on edge as the events continued to pile up. It was just one thing after another.

[A]

In fact, it's enough to make the couple consider giving up their dream home. But Casey isn't going to be forced to move without a fight. Instead, he stands his ground. Yet he can't always be home when he's on the road. Rachelle is on her own. The surveillance cameras Casey installed offer some comfort, but not always. One night, they capture something unsettling.

[G]

Rochelle thinks she sees a person near her chicken coop. She suspected it was Billy, but could never prove it.

[A]

Whether it was her neighbor or not. The next morning, she's in for a shock.

[F]

All of their chickens wound up dead.

[J]

Rochelle suspected that Billy Was somehow to blame for the chickens being dead. However, there was never any evidence to confirm or deny that that was correct.

[A]

When KC returns home, he promises the Wilsons he'll retaliate.

[D]

I know what you did. If you want to kill my chickens, the next time I see your cat on my property, I'm going to shoot it.

[A]

Mabel takes his threat very seriously.

[F]

What if he kills Elsa?

[B]

Surveyor's coming Wednesday. Fence will be up before anything bad happens, I promise.

[A]

But Elsa the cat, couldn't care less. She roams wherever she wants, and that includes Casey and Rachelle's property.

[E]

At one point, the cat got into their garage.

[A]

Casey is still upset over his dead chickens, and even more so about what Billy did to his dog. He decides it's time to return the favor.

[F]

And he just. Fine. You shot my dog. I'm gonna shoot your cat. And then Casey took the cat and put it in Wilson's yard to make sure he's seen it. He thought maybe that would make him shut up and leave him alone.

[G]

When Mabel finds the cat, she is extremely upset.

[F]

Billy is.

[B]

Elsa. It's okay, Mabel.

[A]

It's okay. Their cat's death throws even more fuel on the fire. The conflict on Brick Church road reaches a tipping point, and it's about to come to a head. On the afternoon of Wednesday, November 4, 2020, Rachelle sees a stranger wandering her property.

[B]

Aha.

[A]

There's someone in our yard. Casey's mom, Andrea Simpson, Detective Andy Wandersea, and podcaster Heather Curran walk us through the event.

[F]

They were wondering who was in their yard. So Casey threw on a hoodie and had his gun in the front pocket of it because he knew to have it for any dealings with Wilson or going anywhere near the property line.

[E]

He walked outside, found out that he was a surveyor.

[B]

Hey.

[E]

He was there. Trying to survey and find out where their actual property lines were.

[A]

Casey decides to take advantage of the surveyor's surprise appearance.

[D]

Do you mind doing my property after? I just want to build a fence. Sure.

[A]

But things don't go as smoothly as he's hoped.

[B]

Hey, he's working for me. Now you back off and mind your own business.

[D]

The property line is my business.

[B]

Oh, yeah, and killing cats, too. You shot my dog. That was self defense.

[G]

In front of the surveyor, Casey and Billy were bickering back and forth about past events.

[B]

Look, guys, please calm down. If not, I gotta call the sheriff.

[F]

The surveyor kind of tried to settle him down a little.

[D]

As soon as you figure out the property line, I'm building my fence.

[A]

The search begins for A metal property line indicator set in the ground by the original owners.

[G]

The surveyor goes to the front of the driveway between KC and Billy's property to find the property marker.

[A]

When the marker is discovered, it's bad news for Billy. Not only does the property line favor kc, it also claims Billy's driveway as belonging to his neighbor.

[G]

I imagine Billy was very upset when the marker was uncovered.

[F]

He was mad because he was wrong.

[A]

Kc, on the other hand, is ecstatic and immediately starts marking out his fence on his newly designated land. While a furious Billy looks on.

[D]

Okay, you're my witness. I'm gonna build my fence right on my property line.

[B]

No way. That can't be right. Mabel. Years we've lived here. Thank you.

[A]

No.

[B]

Hey, look. That's wrong. You better stop.

[D]

It's my property.

[F]

Casey said. You heard the surveyor. This is where it's at.

[B]

Wait a sec. Your fence can wait.

[G]

The surveyor asked Casey to wait while he goes to his truck. But Casey doesn't wait.

[A]

Billy counts down to try and control his temper, but it doesn't work.

[B]

10, 9, 8. You better get your ass back in the house before I shoot you.

[D]

Oh, yeah, we're gonna have to get a bigger bullet than what you shot my dog with.

[B]

6, 5, 4. You better get to running.

[F]

He literally started shooting at my son for no reason. The first shot raised Casey's arm, and one got him in the shoulder in an artery. As this is happening, Casey's trying to just turn around and hide behind a tree. Wilson just kept coming at him. He shot him again and got him in his bottom. Makes it hard to walk any. He fell.

[A]

Taken by surprise, Casey doesn't have time to defend himself. As he struggles to escape from Billy, he loses his gun. Here's Danny McMillan again.

[H]

I was surprised that he didn't pull his weapon. It all happened so fast. And Casey probably couldn't believe it either. He just wanted Casey gone. At that point, I think Rachelle is.

[A]

Inside protecting the children. With her husband down, she sees Billy coming toward the house.

[F]

She said he held the gun at the door. She reached forward and slammed the big door shut.

[A]

What follows is Rachelle's actual 911 call. In this moment.

[B]

Please get in here now. Please try to hit me. I am kissing home. Somebody's trying to shoot you.

[A]

Billy returns home and makes his own call to the sheriff's department. Here is that actual audio.

[B]

And somebody has been shot. Yeah. Who shot him?

[I]

I did.

[B]

You shot him? Why did you shoot him? He was coming after me.

[A]

Hagerstown police arrive within Minutes. Billy stands on his front porch and rejects their efforts to arrest him. It's unclear if he's still armed.

[B]

Get on the ground. Get down from there. I called the sheriff. I'm not budging till the sheriff comes.

[F]

Let me see your hands.

[B]

No.

[E]

He would not follow their commands and stated that he was waiting on the sheriff to arrive.

[A]

All the while, Casey lays on the ground fighting for his life.

[B]

He's still breathing. Show me your hands.

[G]

The responding officers decide the situation is urgent and start approaching Billy. They want to be able to give medical care to Casey as soon as possible.

[F]

Still, they couldn't tell if he had the gun in his hand.

[A]

Despite Billy's insistence on the sheriff's presence, the local police are compelled to secure the scene. They arrest the irate shooter while Rachelle rushes to K.C. still on the phone with 911.

[B]

Casey.

[A]

Oh, Casey, stay with me. Oh, my God. Oh, I love you, Casey. Please stay with me. Casey is airlifted to a hospital in Indianapolis. But that night, he succumbs to his wounds.

[F]

I was on the phone with Rochelle and I was crying the whole time. I just. All these thoughts are just running through my head. This ain't real. And tomorrow I'll be the mother of a murdered child.

[A]

Billy Wilson is charged with first degree homicide. @ his trial, he pleads not guilty. Ashley Greene is the prosecutor.

[J]

Mr. Wilson and his attorney claimed he shot Casey Simpson in self defense. And that was the defense they raised at trial.

[A]

But there was a witness. Though he didn't see the first shots, the surveyor observed Billy follow KC as he fled.

[J]

I mean, I can't. I couldn't have asked for a better witness. He was right there.

[F]

Shot a dog. Shot the owner, claimed self defense. On both occasions, eyewitness testimony clearly pointed the other way. When someone's trying to get away from you, it's no longer self defense.

[A]

In June 2022, Billy Wilson is sentenced to 48 years in prison. Those who watched his sentencing can't help but feel he lacked remorse.

[J]

I felt bad for Casey's family to one, have to experience this tragedy and two, have to sit through a trial and hear and see all the evidence. And then to see the person that killed their loved one not be sorry at all was sad.

[A]

In the quiet rural community around Hagerstown, the wounds from that November afternoon still run deep. And while nothing can be done to change the outcome, Casey's mother, Andrea believes there is a lesson to be learned in all of this.

[F]

Don't ever think your neighbor won't shoot you. If they're threatening it because evidently they will stay on the police until they do something and avoid them at all costs. Avoid the neighbor. You just can't explain how you feel when you lose a child. Especially when someone actually murdered them. Because how could someone dislike your child that much? It just affects you you so bad every day like you just can't even imagine.

[A]

This podcast is produced by Cream Productions in association with Fremantle Media and id. You can check out Fear Thy Neighbor on Max, Discovery plus and id. ACAST powers the world's best podcasts.

[D]

Here's a show that we recommend. This area was sort of a shark tank for predators.

[E]

Not just the Green River Killer, but.

[F]

Others in who Took Misty Copsey?

[A]

I'm investigating the disappearance of a 14.

[F]

Year old girl who vanished from the Washington State Fair in 1992.

[A]

How?

[B]

Why? She was so sweet and so young. What happened to her?

[F]

Listen to who Took Misty Copsey?

[A]

Wherever you get your podcasts.

[D]

ACAST helps creators launch, grow and monetize their podcasts everywhere.

[A]

Acast.com.