Podcast Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Queen's Men 54-xx-xx (06) Manslaughter aka Hit and Run
Release Date: June 28, 2025
Introduction
In this gripping episode of Queen's Men, Harold's Old Time Radio transports listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio with an authentic tale from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Titled "Manslaughter aka Hit and Run," this story delves into a tense investigation that showcases the dedication and meticulousness of the Mounties in maintaining peace and justice.
Case Overview
The episode opens with Inspector Templeton recounting a perplexing hit-and-run case that left a man dead on Highway Number 3 in Nova Scotia. The incident, occurring approximately three to four years prior, presented the RCMP with minimal evidence, as the sole witness, a woman present during the accident, was too traumatized to provide a detailed description of the fleeing vehicle (02:15).
Notable Quote:
"I remember it. It was a nasty business. Man and woman walking along Highway Number 3... about three or four years ago." — Inspector Templeton [00:45]
Initial Investigation
Upon arriving at the accident scene, Sergeant Maynard and Constable Jacket assess the grim situation. The absence of skid marks and minimal debris suggested that the perpetrator had not slowed down before the collision, complicating the investigation.
Notable Quote:
"He mustn't have even slowed down. Nothing except a few smithereens of glass mirror it looks like." — Constable Jacket [04:30]
The female witness, Mrs. Malley, corroborated that she was unaware of the vehicle type, intensifying the challenge for the investigators.
Gathering Leads
Enter Mr. Brown, a local salesman, who provides a potentially vital lead. He mentions observing a Barrington Transport dump truck parked without lights—a suspicious detail given the dark night (12:05). Despite the initial discrepancy in company names, Brown's input directs the RCMP's attention toward Barrington Transport, leading to a deeper inquiry into their operations within the region.
Notable Quote:
"When I saw you officers here, I thought maybe you should know about this guy before he causes an accident." — Mr. Brown [11:20]
Narrowing Down Suspects
Inspector Templeton and Sergeant Maynard scrutinize Barrington Transport, identifying two trucks operating in the district. While one driver, Barrett, provides alibis that clear him of suspicion, the other, Harry Preston, becomes the primary suspect due to his unaccounted whereabouts and the unresolved nature of the hit-and-run case.
Notable Quote:
"He never did get the Sinkler and didn't report back to the company. Say, that's interesting." — Sergeant Maynard [24:50]
Confronting Mrs. Preston
The investigation leads the Mounties to Harry Preston's residence, where his wife, Mrs. Preston, becomes a crucial source of information. Initially evasive, her admissions about her husband's state of mind—particularly his frustration over not receiving a raise and his alcohol consumption—add layers to the potential motive behind the hit-and-run incident.
Notable Quote:
"He was mad because another driver got a raise and he asked for one and didn't get it." — Mrs. Preston [37:30]
Discovery of the Truck and Pursuit
Further probing reveals that Harry Preston's truck was found abandoned near a burnt-out barn, with a broken rear vision mirror—a critical clue linking it to the accident (52:10). Employing tire mark analysis and ground searches, the RCMP intensifies their efforts, eventually cornering Preston in the dense woods.
Notable Quote:
"Your men are ready. Jackass." — Inspector Templeton [58:40]
Resolution and Reflection
Constable Jacket's vigilance and Mr. Brown's timely information culminate in the apprehension of Harry Preston. The episode underscores the RCMP's unwavering commitment to justice, highlighting the meticulous investigative techniques that have cemented their esteemed reputation.
Notable Quote:
"It's no wonder the force holds the reputation it does the world over." — Constable Jacket [1:02:15]
Conclusion
"Manslaughter aka Hit and Run" serves as a testament to the relentless pursuit of truth by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Through strategic investigation, community cooperation, and unwavering determination, the Mounties successfully resolve a complicated case, reaffirming their role as pillars of safety and justice.
Final Reflection:
"It's a case of a thorough ground search... Disperse, men." — Sergeant Maynard [1:00:05]
Listeners are left with an appreciation for the intricate processes behind police work and the human elements that drive successful law enforcement operations.
Production Notes
- Music Direction: Sydney Torch
- Script and Adaptation: John Adaskin
- Produced and Directed by: Harry Allen Towers
The Queen's Men continues to deliver authentic and engaging stories from the esteemed Royal Canadian Mounted Police, preserving the legacy and valor of the Mounties for audiences to cherish.