Official Detective 56-11-01 (499) Drunk Accused Of Murder [Mrs Abel Murdered]

Summary

Podcast Summary: Official Detective 56-11-01 (499) Drunk Accused Of Murder [Mrs Abel Murdered]

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Episode: Official Detective 56-11-01 (499) Drunk Accused Of Murder [Mrs Abel Murdered]
• Release Date: March 9, 2025
• Host/Author: Harolds Old Time Radio
• Description: Relives the captivating radio shows from the Golden Age of Radio, showcasing beloved classics like The Shadow, Abbott & Costello, Amos & Andy, Dragnet, and more.

---

I. Introduction

Official Detective 56-11-01 unfolds as a gripping murder mystery set in a time before television, where families gathered around the radio to immerse themselves in suspenseful tales. This episode centers on the murder of Mrs. Abel and the subsequent investigation that unravels layers of deceit, hidden motives, and unexpected twists.

---

II. Key Characters

1. Lieutenant John Hogarth – The dedicated detective leading the investigation.
2. Sergeant Allen – Lieutenant Hogarth’s dependable partner.
3. Lester Abel – The distraught husband of the murder victim, Vivian Abel.
4. Vivian Abel – The victim, whose murder sets the plot in motion.
5. Joe Price – A drunken guest accused of murdering Vivian Abel.
6. Bella Morgan – An enigmatic woman with a vendetta against Vivian Abel.
7. Additional Characters:
   • Mrs. Abel – Victim of the murder.
   • GEICO Narrator & Police Announcer – Provide contextual ambiance.

---

III. Plot Summary

A. The Incident (00:45 - 02:56)

The episode opens with Lieutenant John Hogarth briefing about Joe Price, described as a drunk who "doesn't know when he's had enough" (00:45). Price, a recent guest at the Abels' home, caused a disturbance during dinner, leading to a heated altercation. Despite attempts by Vivian Abel and her husband Lester to calm him, Price becomes increasingly aggressive, indicating a readiness for trouble (02:49).

B. Discovery of the Murder (04:20 - 06:04)

Later that evening, Mrs. Abel is found dead. Lester Abel recounts to Lieutenant Hogarth how Price, under the influence, mistakenly shot his wife, believing it to be him approaching the front door (04:51). Despite Price's erratic behavior, including threats and aggressive demeanor, Lester insists on Price's guilt, highlighting Price's instability and their brief acquaintance (06:04).

C. Initial Investigation and Suspects (07:35 - 12:37)

Detective Hogarth and Sergeant Allen interview Bella Morgan, who claims to have witnessed the murder but provides conflicting details about the perpetrator's appearance (07:37). Concurrently, Price is apprehended but denies involvement, maintaining his innocence despite admitting to possessing a gun, which he later disposed of (10:01 - 12:37).

D. Emerging Evidence and Twists (13:10 - 18:24)

As the investigation progresses, discrepancies arise between Lester Abel’s account and Bella Morgan's testimony. Hogarth and Allen uncover Vivian Abel’s dark past, revealing her involvement in violent acts, including assault and acid attacks against former associates (17:55). This revelation shifts the focus, suggesting potential motives beyond Price's confrontational appearance.

E. The Climactic Confrontation (16:20 - 22:18)

Bella Morgan confronts Lester Abel, accusing him of murdering Vivian Abel and revealing her own vendetta. It is unveiled that Bella was the true antagonist, responsible for both Vivian’s and Lester’s deaths. Her motive stems from Vivian Abel’s prior violent actions against her, leading Bella to orchestrate a plan to eliminate both individuals she held accountable (16:20 - 17:30).

F. Resolution and Arrest (20:26 - 22:18)

In the final act, Hogarth and his team successfully apprehend Bella Morgan. During her interrogation, Bella confesses to orchestrating the murders out of revenge for Vivian Abel's past atrocities. The episode concludes with Bella’s arrest, bringing closure to the tragic events and highlighting the complexities of human motives and justice (21:03 - 22:18).

---

IV. Notable Quotes

• Lieutenant John Hogarth (00:45): "A drinker who doesn't know when he's had enough is inviting trouble."

• Joe Price (01:08): "If you don't follow orders around here, this company don't need you no longer."

• Lester Abel (04:51): "We were married five whole years, Lieutenant, and now she's dead. I can hardly believe it."

• Bella Morgan (16:31): "Why did you murder Vivian? Answer me, you madman. Why did you kill her?"

• Lieutenant John Hogarth (21:21): "That's one confession. Now let's have the other."

---

V. Insights and Conclusions

Official Detective 56-11-01 masterfully intertwines elements of suspense, character development, and plot twists typical of the Golden Age of Radio dramas. The initial suspicion cast upon Joe Price serves as a red herring, diverting attention from the true antagonist, Bella Morgan. This narrative technique underscores the theme that appearances can be deceiving and that motives for crime are often deeply personal and complex.

The episode also delves into the repercussions of past actions, as Vivian Abel's history of violence directly leads to her untimely demise. Through Lieutenant Hogarth's diligent investigation, the story emphasizes the importance of uncovering hidden truths and the relentless pursuit of justice.

Overall, the episode captivates listeners with its intricate plot and memorable dialogue, staying true to the engaging storytelling that defined the era's radio shows.

Transcript

[GEICO Narrator]

All you homeowners have unique needs. Some feel the need to paint their door a vibrant shade of blue. Others have the need to decorate their bathroom with fish anchors and other nautical items. And because each homeowner has unique needs, GEICO helps you get the right coverage for your home and what's in it. That way you get exactly what's right for you, even if your needs are unique. Get more with geico.

[Police Announcer]

Official detective dedicated to the men who guard your safety and protect your home. Your police department.

[John Hogarth]

Lieutenant John Hogarth, headquarters. Lieutenant Dan Britt is on short leave. A drinker who doesn't know when he's had enough is inviting trouble. One night last week, a married couple named Vivian and Lester Abel were entertaining such a man, a fellow named Joe Price. Price, who was working on his seventh eyeball since dinner was becoming a loud nuisance.

[Joe Price]

So the boss said to me, look, Price, if you don't follow orders around here, this company don't need you no longer. What do you think I said? Hey, Lester, what do you think I said to the boss?

[Lester Abel]

I haven't any idea, Joe.

[Joe Price]

What about you, Mrs. Abel? What do you think I said?

[Vivian Abel]

I don't know, Mr. Price.

[Joe Price]

Well, let me tell you what I said. I said, look, fathead, if the company don't need Joe Price, Joe Price don't need the company. And I hauled off and smacked him in the jaw.

[Vivian Abel]

Mr. Price.

[Lester Abel]

Hey, watch it, will you, Price?

[Joe Price]

I got a little too strenuous, huh?

[Vivian Abel]

I'll get the dustpan and clean up that broken glass.

[Lester Abel]

Okay, Vivian.

[Joe Price]

Hey, Mr. Zapor. Vivian, wait a second. Well, let your husband clean up that glass. You don't want to cut those pretty little hands, do you? Look, Mr. Price, I. Ah, honey, don't. I guess. Let the old man go out and get the dust bag. Go ahead, Lester, go ahead. Give me a break. I've been wanting a couple of minutes along with Vivian anyway. Let's do it.

[Lester Abel]

Look, Pricey, let go of Vivian's hand.

[Joe Price]

What for? Maybe your wife likes me better than you. I said let go of her. Hey, who you trying to push around?

[Lester Abel]

You're drunk, Price. I think you better go home and go to bed.

[Joe Price]

That's a fine thing. You invite a guy to dinner, then.

[John Hogarth]

You give him the heave ho.

[Vivian Abel]

Lester's right, Mr. Price. You better go now.

[Joe Price]

Okay, beautiful, anything you say. But look, how about meet me for lunch tomorrow?

[Lester Abel]

That's enough, Price. Now beat it. Come on, come on, get going.

[Joe Price]

Hey, wait a second. Are you looking for trouble? Cause if you are, I'm Ready for it, See?

[Vivian Abel]

Lester, look out.

[Lester Abel]

Bryce, put that gun back in your pocket.

[Joe Price]

Okay, okay. I just want to give you a little warning, that's all. Now, you know I carry a rod.

[Lester Abel]

Yes, now I know it. Come on, come on. The door's out this way.

[Vivian Abel]

Be careful. Lester, please.

[Joe Price]

Good night. Vivian. You better have a little talk with your husband. Tell him to watch himself.

[Lester Abel]

You better go straight home, Price.

[Joe Price]

I don't like being thrown out, so remember what I said. Watch yourself.

[Vivian Abel]

Oh, Lester. Has he gone?

[Lester Abel]

Yeah, he's gone.

[Vivian Abel]

He's an awful man. He's terrible.

[Lester Abel]

And if you thought he was so terrible, why didn't you slap him down?

[Vivian Abel]

What do you mean?

[Lester Abel]

I noticed you didn't fight too hard when he grabbed you.

[Vivian Abel]

But what could I do?

[Lester Abel]

I was making a play for you all evening. You could have told him off, couldn't you?

[Vivian Abel]

But he was a friend of yours. Lester, you talk as if I threw myself at him.

[Lester Abel]

Okay, Vivian, skip it. Skip it.

[Vivian Abel]

I don't like you to talk this way.

[Lester Abel]

Skip it, I said. Look, you better clean up that broken glass. I'm going upstairs to bed.

[Vivian Abel]

Who in the world can that be? Lester, are you in bed? There's somebody at the front door. Oh, I'll see who it is. Okay, okay, I'm coming. You don't have to.

[Lester Abel]

We were married five whole years, Lieutenant, and now she's dead. I can hardly believe it.

[John Hogarth]

We know how you must feel, Mr. Able. We've got to get all the facts quickly. Are you sure this man Price had a gun when he was here tonight?

[Lester Abel]

Of course I'm sure. He took it out of his pocket and Vivian said, lester, look out.

[Allen]

And he threatened you, Mr. Abel?

[Lester Abel]

Yes, sir. He told me to watch myself. It was Price who killed Vivian. I'm sure it was.

[John Hogarth]

Did you hear the doorbell?

[Lester Abel]

Yes, but only dimly. I was upstairs in the bathroom with the water running.

[John Hogarth]

Were you undressed?

[Lester Abel]

Yes, sir. I had these pajamas on. And all of a sudden I heard the shot.

[Allen]

What's the first thing you did then?

[Lester Abel]

I ran downstairs calling Vivian's name. The light was on in the front hall. Then I looked down and I saw.

[Joe Price]

Her lying on the floor.

[Allen]

You phoned the police right away?

[Lester Abel]

I didn't waste a second.

[John Hogarth]

When you got down here to the hall, was the front door open?

[Lester Abel]

No, Lieutenant. I guess Vivian didn't have a chance to open it. Price fired the gun just as she was about to do it.

[John Hogarth]

Why would he fire somebody he couldn't see?

[Lester Abel]

Because he thought it was me that was coming to the door. He was drunk. I told you that. He saw the shadow on the stained glass of the door, thought it was me and fired at it.

[Allen]

When you got downstairs, you didn't see anybody through the broken glass?

[Lester Abel]

No, sergeant, not on the porch. I guess he fired the gun and ran away before I got downstairs.

[John Hogarth]

How long have you known this man Price?

[Lester Abel]

Only about two weeks. I'm in the trucking business and he's a salesman for an automotive company. He seemed to be a lonely sort of a fella, so I invited him to drop in here for dinner. But like I said, he made passes at Vivian. Oh, if I'd only known what kind of a man he was.

[Allen]

Have you got Price's address, Mr. Abel?

[Lester Abel]

It's in the phone book. Joseph E. Price.

[John Hogarth]

Look it up, Alan.

[Joe Price]

Okay.

[Lester Abel]

Books on the hall table.

[John Hogarth]

I see it.

[Lester Abel]

You've got to catch him, Lieutenant, before he gets away.

[John Hogarth]

Try to get some rest, Mr. Abel. We'll investigate Price right away. Price. Owen. Up. Price. It's the police. Open the door. Hold it, Lieutenant. Careful, Allen. Don't get in front of the door.

[Joe Price]

That's okay.

[Allen]

Price isn't in there. Landlady said he went out at 6pm and hasn't come back.

[John Hogarth]

How does she know?

[Allen]

Price lost his key yesterday. He can't get into his room without borrowing her duplicate.

[John Hogarth]

I'll set a police watch in the house, front and back. When he shows up, he'll have a warm welcome.

[Allen]

Lieutenant, there's a woman outside. Says she wants to talk about last night's murder.

[John Hogarth]

You know her? No. Okay, call her in. All right, miss.

[Allen]

Lieutenant Hogarth will see you now.

[Vivian Abel]

Thank you.

[John Hogarth]

Good morning. Would you sit down, please?

[Vivian Abel]

Thank you. I'm Bella Morgan, Lieutenant. I read about Vivian's murder in the morning paper.

[John Hogarth]

You know Something about it, Ms. Morgan?

[Vivian Abel]

Yes, I do. I apologize for my appearance.

[John Hogarth]

I don't understand.

[Vivian Abel]

You were looking at this bandage on my face.

[John Hogarth]

I'm sorry. I didn't mean to embarrass you.

[Vivian Abel]

I'm terribly conscious of it. You see, I've been taking treatment for a skin ailment.

[John Hogarth]

I understand. Now, what do you know about Mrs. Abel's murder?

[Vivian Abel]

Nothing. Except that I saw it take place.

[Joe Price]

What?

[Vivian Abel]

I was passing Vivian's house last night when it happened.

[John Hogarth]

Why did you wait till this morning to tell us about it?

[Vivian Abel]

I didn't know Vivian had been killed. Until I read about it. I didn't know anybody had been killed. Poor Vivian. She was one of my dearest friends.

[Allen]

What were you doing in that neighborhood last night, Ms. Morgan?

[Vivian Abel]

I was just Coming home. I live in the same block.

[Allen]

At what address?

[Vivian Abel]

419 Hopper.

[John Hogarth]

Okay, we've got that straight. Now tell us exactly what you saw last night.

[Vivian Abel]

As I was walking by Vivian's house, I saw somebody on her front porch. I kept right on walking, but as I looked back, I saw it was a man wearing pajamas.

[Allen]

Pajamas?

[John Hogarth]

Ms. Morgan, are you sure this man was wearing pajamas?

[Vivian Abel]

I'm positive.

[John Hogarth]

Was it Mr. Abel?

[Vivian Abel]

That's just the trouble, Lieutenant. I'm not sure.

[Joe Price]

Okay, go ahead.

[Allen]

Then what?

[Vivian Abel]

Suddenly the man raised his arm. I heard a shot and shattering glass.

[John Hogarth]

What did you do then?

[Vivian Abel]

I was panic stricken. I ran home as fast as I could.

[Allen]

You realize, don't you, that you should.

[Joe Price]

Have called the police?

[Vivian Abel]

Oh, yes. Yes, I realize that now. But I was so frightened. And I never dreamed that Vivian had been killed.

[John Hogarth]

This man in pajamas, did he look like Mr. Able?

[Vivian Abel]

Well, I can't say definitely. I didn't see his face.

[Allen]

Is Lester Abel a good friend of yours too?

[Vivian Abel]

Oh, no. I met him only once. But I knew Vivian long before she was married.

[Allen]

Does Abel know you?

[Vivian Abel]

I'm not sure whether he'd recognize me or not. When Vivian introduced us, I wasn't wearing this bandage.

[John Hogarth]

Excuse me, Lieutenant Hogarth. Good. Have any trouble? Fine. Bring him right to my office. Men just caught Joe Price. Well, he was coming back to his room. Didn't make a fuss.

[Allen]

Smart man.

[John Hogarth]

I want to talk to Abel again. Alan. Bring him in, will you?

[Joe Price]

Sure.

[John Hogarth]

I'll finish with Ms. Morgan, then I'll stay here and question Price. All right, Price. Sit down.

[Joe Price]

Yes, sir.

[John Hogarth]

Not that chair. This one.

[Joe Price]

But that sunlight hurts my eyes.

[John Hogarth]

This chair.

[Joe Price]

Okay. Oh, brother.

[John Hogarth]

What's the matter?

[Joe Price]

Hangover, Lieutenant. Every time I move my head, it's like a tornado.

[John Hogarth]

I heard you were pretty drunk last night.

[Joe Price]

I was fractured. I ought to know better than to drink like that. Next morning. I always get the whips and jingles.

[John Hogarth]

Let's get down to business. You know why you're here?

[Joe Price]

Sure. But I didn't do it, Lieutenant. So help me, I didn't kill Mrs. Abel.

[John Hogarth]

Do you admit having a gun at their house last night?

[Joe Price]

Well, how can I deny it?

[Police Announcer]

Able saw it.

[John Hogarth]

It wasn't on you when you were picked up. What did you do with it?

[Joe Price]

I threw it in the river this morning.

[John Hogarth]

Why? To get rid of it. What kind of a gun was it?

[Joe Price]

A Colt automatic, a.38.

[John Hogarth]

You're in serious trouble, Price. You know that, don't you?

[Joe Price]

And how. That's why I ditched the gun. But I didn't kill Mrs. Able. My gun's never been fired.

[John Hogarth]

If that's true, it's too bad you threw it in the river.

[Joe Price]

Why?

[John Hogarth]

Because the coroner extracted the bullet from Mrs. Able. If you hadn't thrown your gun away, you'd have proof that it wasn't fired from your gun.

[Joe Price]

Oh, brother, am I a jerk.

[John Hogarth]

You could be a liar, too. What do you mean? The gun you threw away might have been a.32. The murder bullet was a.32.

[Joe Price]

But I told you my gun was a.38 automatic.

[John Hogarth]

I know you did, but you could have read it in the paper about the caliber of the murder bullet. Is that why you said you had a.38 automatic?

[Joe Price]

No, I said it because it's the truth.

[John Hogarth]

Maybe so. Now tell me what you did last night. After Mr. Abel told you to get out of his house.

[Joe Price]

I left right away and went to a bar.

[John Hogarth]

What bar?

[Joe Price]

I don't remember. It's all a big blank.

[John Hogarth]

What do you remember, Price?

[Joe Price]

Just going to some bar and drinking more booze, which I needed like a hole in the head. After that, the whole night's a great big nothing. This morning I woke up on a park bench. I knew I must have passed out and slept there all night.

[John Hogarth]

What did you do after you woke up?

[Joe Price]

Well, I went into some joint to get coffee. That's when I saw a paper and read about Mrs. Abel and about me being suspected. I was scared as a rabbit. I didn't want the cops to catch me with a gun on me. So I took the ferry and dropped.

[John Hogarth]

It in the river.

[Joe Price]

Then I took the ferry back again, went to my place and the cops lowered the boom on me. That's the whole story. Every word is gospel.

[John Hogarth]

Do you admit threatening Able last night?

[Joe Price]

Yeah, sure. But it was only big talk. Drunk talk. You know what I mean?

[John Hogarth]

Sure. Okay, Price, let's get downstairs. I'm holding you on suspicion, Lieutenant.

[Allen]

Here's Mr. Abel. I talked to him on the way to headquarters. He denies Ms. Morgan's story.

[Lester Abel]

Of course I deny it. I wasn't outside my front door in my pajamas.

[John Hogarth]

But you were wearing pajamas when the shot was fired, right, Mr. Abel?

[Lester Abel]

Well, sure. And I was still wearing them when you men came and questioned me last night. But I told you I was upstairs in the bathroom getting ready for bed.

[John Hogarth]

Ms. Morgan says she's an old friend of your wife's. Her name's Bella Morgan. Do you know her?

[Lester Abel]

Bella Morgan? No, Lieutenant, I don't think so.

[Allen]

She says she met you once.

[Lester Abel]

Maybe she did, but I don't Remember her? And I never heard Vivian mention her name. What is this woman trying to do to me? Why did she say she saw me outside my front door in pajamas?

[John Hogarth]

I don't know, Mr. Abel, but that's what she said.

[Lester Abel]

I loved Vivian. We were happily married for five years. Why are you accusing me of killing her?

[John Hogarth]

We're not accusing you. We're just checking on Ms. Morgan's story, that's all.

[Lester Abel]

Why was I brought to police headquarters? Am I under arrest?

[Allen]

Look, Mr. Abel, we just wanted to hear your side of the story, that's all.

[Lester Abel]

Vivian was a beautiful girl, lovely wife.

[John Hogarth]

I'm sure she was. But even fine people make enemies.

[Lester Abel]

My Vivian had no enemies, Lieutenant. Everyone loved her almost as much as I do.

[John Hogarth]

You're not planning to leave town for a while, are you?

[Lester Abel]

No, sir. I'll be right there at my home. Oh, if you catch Joe Price, please let me know.

[Allen]

We've already caught him. He's downstairs in a cell.

[John Hogarth]

He's.

[Lester Abel]

What does he say? Has he confessed?

[John Hogarth]

No, sir. He denies the shooting, but he did it.

[Lester Abel]

Make him tell the truth.

[Joe Price]

Don't worry.

[Allen]

If there's a confession, you'll be the first to hear about it.

[John Hogarth]

You can go home now, Mr. Abel. Thanks for coming down.

[Lester Abel]

Well, I'll come anytime you want me, Lieutenant. Just make Price tell the truth. I don't care how you do it, but please make him confess that he committed murder.

[Allen]

What about it, Lieutenant? You want Able tailed?

[John Hogarth]

No, Alan, I'm sure he'll go right home.

[Allen]

Which one do you believe, Able or the Morgan Dane?

[John Hogarth]

I haven't made up my mind. Have you?

[Allen]

Well, I've been thinking that maybe Vivian and that Price guy might have had a little love affair on the fire. And maybe the husband knew about it and he was jealous. He could have sneaked downstairs in his pajamas and gone outside the front door. And when Vivian came to answer the bell, he could have shot her through the glass, right?

[John Hogarth]

Sure, Alan. That's possible. Price, having made that threat, Able knew he'd have a tailor made out.

[Vivian Abel]

Yeah.

[Allen]

Lieutenant, why did you suggest that Vivian might have had some enemy?

[John Hogarth]

Well, it struck me that maybe we've been following the wrong theory. Maybe the killer wasn't gunning for Able, but actually for his wife. So when he saw the woman's shadow on the glass, he fired purposely. That makes sense.

[Allen]

Sure, and it's a brand new angle.

[John Hogarth]

One I'd like to follow up. Let's get to the morgue and get Vivian's fingerprints. It's a long chance, but we Might find out that somebody had a motive for killing her.

[Vivian Abel]

Mr. Abel?

[Lester Abel]

Yes?

[Vivian Abel]

I'd like to speak to you. May I come in?

[Lester Abel]

Well, you're not one of those reporters, are you?

[Vivian Abel]

Oh, no, I'm an old friend of Vivian's.

[Lester Abel]

Oh, then please come in.

[Vivian Abel]

Thank you. I see you've already replaced the glass in the door.

[Lester Abel]

Yes, I had it done this morning, Miss.

[Vivian Abel]

Morgan.

[Lester Abel]

Bella Morgan?

[Vivian Abel]

Yes.

[Lester Abel]

Well, I'm certainly glad you came. I've been wanting to talk to you.

[Vivian Abel]

Please, Mr. Abel. My arm.

[Lester Abel]

So you're the woman who went to the police and told them that lie.

[Vivian Abel]

You know I told them you were on the porch last night in your pajamas.

[Lester Abel]

Listen, do you realize that because of what you told the police, I suspect me of Vivian's murder?

[Vivian Abel]

Of course they suspect you. Why did you do it, Mr. Abel? Why did you murder one of my oldest and dearest friends?

[Joe Price]

Don't talk that way.

[Lester Abel]

I won't stand for it.

[Vivian Abel]

You mean you're threatening me?

[Lester Abel]

Why did you come here?

[Vivian Abel]

Because I felt I had to see you. I had to find out for myself why you did it.

[Lester Abel]

Are you out of your mind?

[Vivian Abel]

You haven't answered my question. Why did you murder Vivian?

[Joe Price]

Stop it.

[Lester Abel]

Stop saying that. I love Vivian.

[Vivian Abel]

Then why did you kill her? Answer me, you madman. Why did you kill her?

[Joe Price]

Stop it.

[Lester Abel]

Keep on shouting that question. I'll find a way to stop you.

[Vivian Abel]

I believe you would. I believe you'd kill me too. Just as you killed Vivian.

[Allen]

Alan. Right here, Lieutenant.

[Joe Price]

Straightening up the closet.

[John Hogarth]

I just checked Vivian Abel's fingerprints. She had a police record.

[Joe Price]

No kidding. What was she pinched for?

[John Hogarth]

Shoplifting seven years ago, before she was married. Her maiden name was Vivian Carroll or Carill.

[Joe Price]

Uh huh.

[Allen]

Some surprise. You find anything else?

[John Hogarth]

Yes. The name of somebody who might have wanted to see her dead.

[Allen]

Anybody we know?

[John Hogarth]

Vivian was arrested because a girl accomplice was picked up from and squealed on her. Vivian served a minimum stretch. When she was released, she hunted up the squealing encompass and got even with her.

[Allen]

She beat her up?

[John Hogarth]

Worse than that, she threw acid in the girl's face. The girl's face was badly burned by the acid, but Vivian was never found. Now you know who might have wanted to see her dead? The woman with a bandaged face.

[Allen]

Bella Morgan.

[John Hogarth]

Bella Morgan. Lieutenant Olgarth, this is Lester Able.

[Lester Abel]

I've.

[John Hogarth]

Yes, Mr. Abel. Allen, listen to this.

[Joe Price]

Sure.

[John Hogarth]

Mr. Abel, are you still there?

[Lester Abel]

Yes. Listen Lieutenant, I just been shot.

[John Hogarth]

Who did it?

[Lester Abel]

That. That woman.

[John Hogarth]

Bella Morgan?

[Lester Abel]

Yes. She came here to my house and shot me.

[John Hogarth]

Then she left have you called a doctor?

[Lester Abel]

No, I think it's too late for a doctor. I wanted to tell you again that I didn't kill Vivian.

[John Hogarth]

I know you didn't, Mr. Abel.

[Lester Abel]

Thank goodness. I just wanted to hear you say that.

[John Hogarth]

Believe me, Mr. Abel. Allen, call an ambulance. First we'll check on Abel, and then we'll pick up Bella Morgan. Her apartment's down this hall, the second door on the right.

[Allen]

Okay, Lieutenant.

[John Hogarth]

The super says she's home now, so we've got her cornered.

[Allen]

Yeah, and with that gun, liable to be nasty.

[John Hogarth]

Let's have our own. Ready? Come on, now, quietly. Careful now. Don't stand in front of the door.

[Allen]

I'm ready, Lieutenant.

[John Hogarth]

Okay, Here we go. Ms. Morgan. Ms. Morgan.

[Vivian Abel]

Who is it?

[John Hogarth]

Police. Open up.

[Allen]

Why should I be smart, lady? We know all about you.

[Vivian Abel]

So what's that prove?

[John Hogarth]

Open the door. Don't try anything funny. We're armed.

[Vivian Abel]

I'll bet you are.

[John Hogarth]

Ms. Morgan, are you going to open this door? Answer me.

[Vivian Abel]

All right, here's my answer.

[Joe Price]

Okay, that does it.

[Vivian Abel]

Get out of here.

[Joe Price]

Get out.

[John Hogarth]

The gun's empty, lady.

[Joe Price]

Lucky for you I'll take it.

[Vivian Abel]

I'd have killed you both. You hear that?

[John Hogarth]

Killing comes easy to you, doesn't it?

[Vivian Abel]

Let me out.

[Joe Price]

Hold on.

[Allen]

You're not leaving yet. Put your arms out.

[Vivian Abel]

What are you doing?

[Allen]

Arresting you for double murder.

[Vivian Abel]

Double murder?

[John Hogarth]

Mr. Able died before we got to him.

[Vivian Abel]

I got both of them.

[John Hogarth]

We know why you shot Vivian, but why did you kill her husband?

[Vivian Abel]

I hated him for marrying Vivian. He must have been just as bad as she was. I tried to pin her murder on him. But when I saw him come back from police headquarters, I knew my plan didn't work. So I went to his house and got him myself.

[John Hogarth]

That's one confession. Now let's have the other.

[Vivian Abel]

Well, I planned to get Vivian for a long time. Ever since she threw the acid in my face. I rented this place just to be near her. And I waited for my chance. Last night, I sneaked up on her front porch and watched through the window. Drunken man staggered out and went away. Then I saw the husband go upstairs. I waited for a little while and then rang the doorbell. When I saw Vivian's shadow on the glass, I fired at her. She ruined my face.

[John Hogarth]

That didn't give you the right to kill her. Is that all, Ms. Morgan?

[Vivian Abel]

What more do you want? You want to see what Vivian did to my face? All right, I'll take this bandage off and shove it.

[John Hogarth]

That won't be necessary. Come on, Sergeant, let's Get her out of here.

[Police Announcer]

You have just heard Official Detective. Tense, dramatic stories of criminal Investigation. Starring Craig McDonnell as Detective Lieutenant Dan Britt. In our cast, Sergeant Allen was played by Lawson Zerby, Price by John Griggs, Lester by Blaine Cordner and Vivian by Briana Rayb. Official Detective is produced and directed by Wim Wright. Written by Albert G. Miller. All names of persons and places used in this program are fictitious. Any resemblance to names of actual persons, living or dead, is coincidental. Jack Irish speaking. This program came from New York.