Podcast Summary: Morbid Episode 625 – "Albert Johnson: The Mad Trapper of Rat River"

Introduction

In Episode 625 of Morbid, titled "Albert Johnson: The Mad Trapper of Rat River," hosts Elena and Ash delve into one of Canada's most enigmatic true crime cases. Set against the harsh backdrop of the Great Depression, this episode explores the mysterious manhunt for Albert Johnson, a skilled trapper whose violent encounters with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have left historians and enthusiasts baffled for decades.

Historical Context

The episode begins by setting the stage during the Great Depression, highlighting its severe impact on rural and remote areas of Canada. Elena explains how droughts devastated the agricultural sector, leading to widespread unemployment and pushing many to seek alternative means of survival in isolated regions.

Elena [08:00]: "By 1930, the economic shock had put as much as 30% of the workforce out of a job, particularly hitting the residents of remote areas hard."

The Arrival of Albert Johnson

In the summer of 1931, a man introducing himself as Albert Johnson arrives in Fort McPherson, a small village in the Northwest Territories. Initially appearing as a typical outsider seeking to survive the Depression, Johnson's true nature soon becomes evident.

Elena [07:38]: "His name was Albert Johnson, but it wasn't his real name. We don't know his true identity."

Initial Encounters with the RCMP

Constable Edgar Millen is tasked with questioning Johnson upon his arrival. Johnson's curt demeanor and evasive responses raise suspicions, especially when local native trappers report that Johnson has been tampering with their traps.

Ash [10:27]: "He's like, 'You going into my territory or not?'"

Despite the suspicions, Millen decides not to press the issue further, assuming Johnson will disappear into the wilderness. However, a week later, suspicious activities resume, leading to the realization that Johnson is not only interfering with traps but also poaching without a license.

Escalation and the First Shootout

Constables Alfred King and Joe Bernard are dispatched to investigate Johnson's cabin. Upon arrival, they find signs of habitation but no immediate response. Attempts to communicate are met with hostility, culminating in a violent confrontation where Constable King is fatally shot.

Elena [21:31]: "Johnson had shot a shotgun blast out the front door, hitting King in the chest."

The ensuing gunfight forces the constables to retreat for medical assistance, highlighting the extreme danger posed by Johnson.

The Prolonged Manhunt

Inspector Alexander Ames organizes a larger search team, incorporating experienced officers and eventually involving native tribes familiar with the treacherous terrain. The manhunt spans nearly five weeks, marked by multiple skirmishes and Johnson's elusive tactics.

Elena [35:43]: "He climbed a nearly 7,000-foot cliff wall to escape, moving swiftly across frozen creek beds."

Throughout the search, Johnson's ability to evade capture underscores his exceptional survival skills and deep knowledge of the wilderness.

Final Confrontation and Death

The relentless pursuit culminates on February 17th, when Johnson is cornered in a constructed barricade. In an intense final shootout, Johnson is fatally wounded by RCMP officers after a prolonged exchange of gunfire.

Ash [52:35]: "By the time they reached his position in the ditch, Albert Johnson had been shot seven times. The spinal wound was fatal."

Despite his death, many questions about Johnson's true identity and motives remain unanswered, leaving his legacy shrouded in mystery.

Theories and Identity Mystery

Posthumous investigations suggest Johnson may have been Johnny Johnson from North Dakota, a criminal with a history of bank robberies and an escape artist. DNA testing and fingerprint comparisons provided inconclusive evidence, perpetuating the mystery.

Elena [59:36]: "Dick North theorized that Johnson was actually Johnny Johnson, a North Dakota criminal involved in a 1915 bank robbery."

Cultural Impact

Albert Johnson's saga has become a fixture in Canadian folklore, inspiring songs, novels, and films. His story symbolizes the untamed wilderness and the enigmatic figures it can harbor.

Ash [63:00]: "This is truly one of the wildest stories I've ever heard."

Conclusion

The episode wraps up by reflecting on the enduring allure of Johnson's story, emphasizing the unresolved questions that continue to fascinate true crime enthusiasts. Elena and Ash highlight how Albert Johnson: The Mad Trapper of Rat River remains a captivating tale of survival, mystery, and the relentless pursuit of justice in one of Canada's most remote regions.

Elena [62:25]: "We still don't conclusively know who this man was and why he reacted the way he did. You can't let it go."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Elena [08:00]: "By 1930, the economic shock had put as much as 30% of the workforce out of a job, particularly hitting the residents of remote areas hard."

• Ash [10:27]: "He's like, 'You going into my territory or not?'"

• Elena [21:31]: "Johnson had shot a shotgun blast out the front door, hitting King in the chest."

• Elena [35:43]: "He climbed a nearly 7,000-foot cliff wall to escape, moving swiftly across frozen creek beds."

• Ash [52:35]: "By the time they reached his position in the ditch, Albert Johnson had been shot seven times. The spinal wound was fatal."

• Elena [59:36]: "Dick North theorized that Johnson was actually Johnny Johnson, a North Dakota criminal involved in a 1915 bank robbery."

• Ash [63:00]: "This is truly one of the wildest stories I've ever heard."

• Elena [62:25]: "We still don't conclusively know who this man was and why he reacted the way he did. You can't let it go."

Final Thoughts

Morbid Episode 625 offers a gripping exploration of Albert Johnson's life and the intense manhunt that defined his legend. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Elena and Ash provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of this true crime mystery, leaving them pondering the true nature of the Mad Trapper of Rat River.