Killer Minds: Inside the Minds of Serial Killers & Murderers
Episode: SERIAL KILLER: "The Alaskan Attacker" Pt. 2
Release Date: May 22, 2025
Hosts: Vanessa Richardson and Dr. Tristin Engels
Description: This episode delves into the complex and atypical case of Joshua Wade, an Alaskan serial killer whose unpredictable and chaotic nature sets him apart from typical serial murderers. Hosts Vanessa Richardson and Dr. Tristin Engels explore Wade's crimes, psychological motivations, interactions with law enforcement, and his behavior within the prison system.
1. Introduction to Joshua Wade
Vanessa Richardson opens the episode by contrasting the typical profile of a serial killer with Joshua Wade's unconventional traits. Unlike the calculated and methodical killers like Jeffrey Dahmer or Ted Bundy, Wade is portrayed as chaotic and unpredictable, making him particularly dangerous because his next move is unforeseen.
Vanessa Richardson [00:06]: "...Joshua Wade was not that kind of person. He was chaotic and unpredictable, far from a criminal mastermind..."
2. Overview of Joshua Wade's Crimes
The podcast recounts Wade's involvement in multiple murders, starting with the 2000 death of Della Brown, for which he was acquitted of murder charges but convicted of tampering with evidence. In 2007, Wade was charged with the murder of his neighbor, Mindy Schloss. Wade's crimes are characterized by their lack of consistency, both in victim selection and modus operandi.
Vanessa Richardson [05:11]: "By 2004 he was out on probation... but things didn't go as planned."
3. Investigation and Apprehension
Authorities' pursuit of Wade highlights his initial evasion tactics and the breakthrough through surveillance footage and canine units. Despite his attempts to disguise himself, distinctive marks like his black jacket with gray stripes led to his discovery. The meticulous organization found in his personal space contrasted sharply with his erratic criminal behavior.
Vanessa Richardson [06:06]: "He shared the house with two other young men... but Josh's room was the complete opposite."
4. Psychological Profile and Behavior in Prison
Dr. Tristin Engels provides an in-depth analysis of Wade's psychology, emphasizing his lack of organized patterns typical of serial killers. Wade's violent outbursts in prison, including assaults on fellow inmates, are dissected to reveal his struggles with impulse control and his need for power and control even while incarcerated.
Dr. Tristan Ingalls [02:34]: "Josh is very atypical when it comes to serial murderers because nothing about this is consistent."
5. Plea Deal and Confessions
Facing substantial evidence, Wade opts for a plea deal in 2010, pleading guilty to the murder of Mindy Schloss and admitting to the earlier killing of Della Brown. This deal spares him from the death penalty, resulting in a life sentence with an additional federal sentence. Wade's seemingly genuine remorse is later scrutinized as potentially self-serving.
Vanessa Richardson [24:13]: "He said, 'I deserve much worse. I'm sorry.'"
6. Additional Murders and Family Insights
In 2014, Wade agrees to another plea deal, confessing to three additional murders, including one committed at age 14. These confessions raised questions about their authenticity, with Dr. Engels expressing skepticism about Wade's motivations, suggesting he might be seeking notoriety or attempting to manipulate his prison environment.
Dr. Tristan Ingalls [29:43]: "This is just more evidence that confirms that Josh is a product of his environment."
7. Dr. Ingalls' Analysis and Conclusion
Dr. Engels challenges the classification of Wade as a traditional serial killer, highlighting the lack of consistent patterns and the possibility that his confessions may be false or exaggerated. He suggests that Wade's actions are more characteristic of a career criminal driven by opportunism and environmental factors rather than the psychological thrill typical of serial killers.
Dr. Tristan Ingalls [39:34]: "I doubt it very much."
8. Josh’s Death and Ongoing Investigations
Joshua Wade's life comes to an end in June 2024 under mysterious circumstances in his Indiana prison cell. His death marks the conclusion of his direct influence, but investigations continue to determine the full scope of his crimes and whether there are additional victims, aiming to provide closure for affected families.
Vanessa Richardson [38:00]: "In June 2024, after 10 years in prison, Josh was found dead in his cell."
9. Final Reflections
Vanessa wraps up the episode by reflecting on the impact of Wade's crimes on the community and the lingering questions about his true nature and motivations. The hosts express hope that ongoing investigations will uncover the truth behind any additional murders Wade may have committed.
Vanessa Richardson [42:57]: "Josh's crimes left a deep, lasting scar on his local community."
Quotes Highlights
- Vanessa Richardson [00:06]: "Joshua Wade was not that kind of person. He was chaotic and unpredictable..."
- Dr. Tristan Ingalls [02:34]: "Josh is very atypical when it comes to serial murderers because nothing about this is consistent."
- Vanessa Richardson [24:13]: "He said, 'I deserve much worse. I'm sorry.'"
- Dr. Tristan Ingalls [29:43]: "This is just more evidence that confirms that Josh is a product of his environment."
- Dr. Tristan Ingalls [39:34]: "I doubt it very much."
- Vanessa Richardson [38:00]: "In June 2024, after 10 years in prison, Josh was found dead in his cell."
- Vanessa Richardson [42:57]: "Josh's crimes left a deep, lasting scar on his local community."
Conclusion
This episode of "Killer Minds" offers a comprehensive examination of Joshua Wade's life and crimes, blending gripping storytelling with expert psychological insights. Wade's case challenges conventional understandings of serial killers, illustrating the complex interplay between individual psychology and environmental factors. Through detailed analysis and compelling narratives, Vanessa Richardson and Dr. Tristin Engels provide listeners with a nuanced perspective on one of Alaska's most enigmatic and dangerous criminals.