Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio - "Whitehall 1212 51-11-18 (01) The Blitz Murder Case"

Introduction

"Whitehall 1212 51-11-18 (01) The Blitz Murder Case" is the inaugural episode of the "Whitehall" series on Harold's Old Time Radio. This episode delves into a gripping murder mystery set against the tumultuous backdrop of World War II's Blitz. Drawing from the authentic and secretive files of Scotland Yard, the story unravels the complexities of a tragic crime that occurred in the midst of wartime chaos.

Case Background

The episode introduces listeners to New Scotland Yard, the renowned headquarters of the Metropolitan Police in London, situated near significant landmarks like the Embankment, 10 Downing Street, and Big Ben. Chief Superintendent James Davidson oversees the infamous Black Museum, a repository of artifacts linked to Scotland Yard's most notable cases.

At [01:23], Chief Superintendent Carruth provides a vivid description of the museum:

Chief Superintendent Peter Carruth [01:23]: "Here we possess an imposing collection of lethal weapons... Together with a statement of particulars concerning its use."

One of the museum's exhibits includes fragments of tea caps, which served as crucial evidence in solving a heinous crime during the Blitz of July 1940.

The Crime Scene

The narrative shifts to July 3rd, 1940, when Chief Superintendent Peter Carruth receives a distressing call from Chief Constable Thomas Bennett of Matfield, a village near Tunbridge. Three women—Miss Evans, Mrs. Ames, and her daughter Jessica—have been found shot to death in their home. Amidst the ongoing air raids and the relentless assault by the Luftwaffe, this murder stands out as a chilling anomaly.

Upon arrival at the crime scene, Chief Constable Bennett briefs Carruth and his team:

Chief Constable Thomas Bennett [05:14]: "Miss Evans, the servant, has always lived here. Mrs. Ames and her daughter moved here a year ago."

The house is described as thoroughly ransacked, with violent signs evident from the two holes in Miss Evans's head. The tranquility of wartime life is starkly contrasted by the brutality of the murders.

Investigation Begins

Detective Sergeant Small takes charge of the investigation, focusing first on the house:

Detective Sergeant Small [05:55]: "See what you can find out, Bernard."

The initial examination reveals a household torn apart, with Miss Evans identified as the long-term servant and Mrs. Ames and her daughter as recent additions to the household. The estranged relationship between Mrs. Ames and her husband, John Ames, becomes a focal point early in the investigation.

Key evidence uncovered includes:

• Glove Found at the Scene:

  Detective Sergeant Small [08:13]: "Woman's glove. Size six, I'd say. Hogskin shops sell thousands a week."

• Shooter's Motive: The presence of four tea cups suggests familiarity with the victims:

  Detective Sergeant Small [10:32]: "One for the mother, one for the daughter, one for the maid... One for the murderer."

The meticulous nature of the investigation highlights Scotland Yard's expertise in piecing together seemingly insignificant clues.

Interviews and Suspects

A pivotal interview takes place with Ms. Viola Masterson, the manager of the Ames farm and a key figure in the case. Her interaction with Detective Sergeant Small reveals underlying tensions and possible motives:

Ms. Viola Masterson [12:44]: "I'd have gone over to Natfield if I hadn't been so stupid as to fall off my bicycle and injure my arm."

Further scrutiny falls on John Ames, Mrs. Ames's estranged husband, whose alibi becomes questionable. The investigation uncovers that Ames was seen near the crime scene carrying a shotgun, contradicting his initial statements about his whereabouts.

Critical Evidence Uncovered

The investigation intensifies with the discovery of more evidence:

• Shotgun and Ballistics:

  Constable [19:44]: "The women were killed with a shotgun. Probably a .410 shotgun."

• Fingerprint Analysis: Fingerprints on the bicycle handlebar and the discovery of a mysterious glove add layers to the case:

  Detective Sergeant Small [25:35]: "You have uncovered some other evidence, sir."

• Parcel Inspection: A strange parcel resembling the size of a gun is traced to a woman matching the description found near Piddington station.

Conclusion and Resolution

The culmination of the investigation leads to the arrest of Ms. Viola Masterson. The evidence against her is overwhelming:

• Forensic Evidence: The shotgun pellets matched those fired by Ms. Masterson during a fatal rabbit shooting incident.

• Motive and Opportunity: Her desire to marry John Ames and eliminate witnesses provided a clear motive.

In the courtroom, the prosecution presents a compelling case:

Chief Superintendent Peter Carruth [26:02]: "The evidence... proved sufficient to convict Viola Masterson of the murders of Mrs. Ames and her daughter and of the servant, Margaret Evans."

Despite attempts to implicate John Ames as an accomplice, he is acquitted and later reported missing in action. Ms. Masterson is declared criminally insane and incarcerated at Broadmoor Asylum.

Notable Quotes

• Chief Superintendent Peter Carruth [02:09]:

  "This Black Museum of ours is rather unique. Everything in it was at one time connected with the successful solution of a crime..."

• Detective Sergeant Small [10:25]:

  "One for the mother, one for the daughter, one for the maid... One for the murderer."

• Ms. Viola Masterson [22:55]:

  "I'm afraid perhaps he's not as ferocious as I am. But he shares my views all right."

• Chief Superintendent Peter Carruth [19:54]:

  "I think those little lead pellets are going to hang someone, Bernie."

Epilogue

The episode concludes with a reflection on the resilience of Londoners during the Blitz and the unwavering commitment of Scotland Yard in upholding justice amidst chaos. "The Blitz Murder Case" sets a high standard for the "Whitehall" series, promising more enthralling tales from Scotland Yard's secretive archives.

Closing Remarks

"Whitehall 1212 51-11-18 (01) The Blitz Murder Case" masterfully intertwines historical context with a compelling murder mystery, offering listeners an immersive experience into the detective prowess of Scotland Yard during one of Britain's most challenging times. With its rich narrative and attention to detail, the episode serves both as entertainment and a homage to the Golden Age of Radio storytelling.