Morbid Episode 634: Michael and Suzan Carson – San Francisco Witch Killers

Released on January 6, 2025
Hosted by Ash and Alaina | Morbid Network | Wondery

Introduction to the Case

In Episode 634 of Morbid, titled "Michael and Suzan Carson: San Francisco Witch Killers," hosts Ash and Alaina delve into a chilling true crime story from the early 1980s. This episode uncovers the disturbing tale of Michael and Suzan Carson, a couple whose twisted beliefs and violent actions left a dark mark on San Francisco's history.

Karen Barnes: The Victim

Background and Death
On the afternoon of March 7, 1981, San Francisco detectives responded to a distressing scene at Schrader Street Apartments. They found 23-year-old Karen Barnes's body in the kitchen's basement apartment, her skull crushed by repeated blunt force trauma and stabbed 13 times to her face and neck. Dr. Boyd Stevens, the coroner, concluded that Karen had likely attacked in her sleep and was dead or dying when the assaults began, with her body remaining untouched for about two days (08:00).

Detective Carl Klotz's Observations
Detective Klotz found the apartment unnervingly stark, illuminated solely by votive candles, with minimal furniture and bizarre crayon drawings on the walls signed "SUSAN." This unsettling environment hinted at something far more sinister behind Karen's death (11:15).

Introducing Michael and Suzan Carson

Background and Relationships
Karen had moved to San Francisco from Georgia with dreams of becoming an actress. However, her relocation led her into the company of Michael and Suzan Carson, whom friends described as disturbed and potentially mentally ill. Michael, originally James Clifford Carson, had a history of unstable behavior, while Suzan, born Susan Thornell Hamilton, grappled with schizophrenia (22:35).

Influence and Indoctrination
Karen became increasingly influenced by Michael and Suzan's distorted religious beliefs, which blended a poor understanding of Islam with their own unique and dangerous ideology. Friends noted how the couple's presence was both mesmerizing and deeply unsettling, leading Karen to isolate herself further (25:17).

The Murders

Clark Stevens' Death
In early May 1981, an altercation on a marijuana farm led Michael Carson to murder Clark Stevens, believing him to be a demonic threat to Suzan. The couple disposed of Stevens's body in chicken manure, later burning it to cover their tracks. This heinous act solidified Michael and Suzan as prime suspects in Karen Barnes's murder (38:24).

John Hellier's Murder
Their violent spree continued when they encountered John Hellier in Bakersfield, California, in January 1983. Claiming Hellier was a "powerful witch," Michael and Suzan shot him multiple times. Their actions were sporadically witnessed, leading to a high-speed police chase that ended with their capture after a dramatic pursuit (55:32).

Arrest, Trial, and Conviction

Initial Capture and Behavior
Upon arrest, the couple presented themselves as "Mike and Michael Baer," adopting false identities. Their courtroom demeanor was erratic and confrontational, with Suzan frequently disrupting proceedings and Michael consistently displaying a lack of remorse. Notable moments include Suzan's refusal to accept her public defender and their simultaneous guilty and not guilty pleas (73:03).

Courtroom Antics and Testimonies
During their trials, Michael and Suzan incorporated their warped beliefs into their defense, with witnesses like Maude Reinerston, a self-proclaimed "good witch," trying to explain witchcraft's role. Despite their chaotic testimonies and attempts to manipulate the narrative, both were convicted of multiple murders and sentenced to 25 years to life (75:00).

Life After Conviction

Parole and Continued Legacy
Eligible for parole in 2015, Michael and Suzan faced unanimous opposition from victims' families and even Michael's own daughter, who vehemently opposed any possibility of their release. Their bids for parole were denied, ensuring they remain incarcerated until at least 2030. The lasting impact of their crimes continues to resonate, highlighting the tragic loss of Karen Barnes and others at the hands of this dangerous couple (78:06).

Notable Quotes

• Detective Carl Klotz:
  "It was so carefully cleaned and emptied before we arrived. Whoever did this wanted no trace left behind." (10:39)

• Susan Carson during Sentencing:
  "I'm crying, so I don't care." (70:18)

• Michael Carson on Commencing Violence:
  "I killed a witch because it's the law of God to do so. Someday the Lord God will set me free." (76:07)

• Michael Carson on Parole Denial:
  "I know this is absurd. No one is going to parole me because I will not and have not renounced my beliefs." (78:37)

Conclusion

The story of Michael and Suzan Carson is a harrowing testament to how twisted beliefs and unchecked mental illness can culminate in unimaginable violence. Their manipulative and violent actions not only shattered lives but also left a permanent scar on the community they once moved within. Morbid sheds light on this dark chapter, reminding us of the fragile line between belief and madness.

Timestamps Reference

• 08:00: Details of Karen Barnes's murder scene and cause of death.
• 11:15: Detective Klotz's observations of the apartment and strange drawings.
• 22:35: Introduction to Michael and Suzan Carson's backgrounds.
• 25:17: Influence of Michael and Suzan on Karen.
• 38:24: Description of Clark Stevens's murder.
• 55:32: Account of John Hellier's murder and the ensuing police chase.
• 73:03: Courtroom behavior during trial.
• 75:00: Trial testimonies and eventual conviction.
• 78:06: Parole attempts and familial opposition.

Note: Timestamps correspond to the transcript segments provided.

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