Morbid Podcast Summary: Episode 679 – The Mad Bomber of New York (Part 2)
Release Date: June 9, 2025
Hosted by Elena and Ash, Morbid explores the chilling case of the Mad Bomber of New York, delving into the intricate details of his crimes, investigation, and ultimate fate.
Introduction to the Case
In this second part of their deep dive into the Mad Bomber of New York, Elena and Ash continue to unravel the complex story of a man whose grievances against the Consolidated Edison Company led to a prolonged spree of bombings over 15 years. The episode bridges the gap between the bomber's initial acts and the eventual discovery of his identity.
Escalation of Bombing Activities
Following a year without any new bombs, the Mad Bomber resurfaces in early November 1954 with a devastating attack at Radio City Music Hall. On [08:27], Elena narrates:
“A bomb buried in one of the seats in the 15th row exploded, sending shrapnel and pieces of chair everywhere, injuring two women and two boys.”
Despite the minimal casualties, the sophistication of the explosives increased, as evidenced by a subsequent bombing in a phone booth at the Port Authority Bus Terminal on [09:08], which caused widespread panic but no injuries. The bomber's tactics grew more calculated, causing heightened fear among New Yorkers.
Press and Public Reaction
Initially, the NYPD attempted to minimize the threats to avoid giving the bomber the fear and panic he desired. However, persistent attacks and the bomber's escalating sophistication forced the press to shift their approach. By [12:22], Elena explains how the media began sensationalizing the bombings:
“The front page of the New York Daily News led with 'Bomb Goes Off Panics, Rush Hour, Throng,' contrasting sharply with other papers downplaying the incidents.”
This change in media coverage increased public awareness and pressure on the authorities to act, ultimately intensifying the manhunt.
Profiling and Investigation Efforts
In late 1956, the NYPD enlisted the help of Dr. James Brussel, a criminologist, to create a psychological profile of the bomber. He described the bomber as a "paranoiac" with a "superiority complex" and "pathologically self-centered," attributes that fit George Matesky, born George Peter Malauskas Jr. [25:04] highlights Brussel's profiling:
“The paranoiac is the world's champion grudge holder... His delusion is essentially a defense of his love object himself.”
This profiling was instrumental in narrowing down the suspect pool, eventually leading Alice Kelly, a diligent clerk, to identify Matesky through his work compensation files [33:08].
The Arrest and Admission of Guilt
On January 21, 1957, after extensive cooperation between NYPD and local detectives in Waterbury, Connecticut, Matesky was apprehended. The calm and almost nonchalant demeanor with which he admitted his guilt was striking. At [47:38], Elena recounts his interaction with Detective Lehane:
“He just said, maybe you're not so mad... fair play.”
Matesky cooperated fully, providing a detailed timeline of his bombings, which solidified the evidence against him.
Legal Proceedings and Mental Health Evaluation
During his arraignment, Matesky's defense lawyer highlighted his severe mental health issues, arguing for psychiatric evaluation over immediate prosecution [52:04]. The court concurred, deeming him legally insane and committing him to Matawan State Hospital [53:46]. Matesky's diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia explained his inability to grasp the gravity of his actions and his detachment from societal norms.
Life Post-Incarceration
Matesky spent decades in the state hospital, during which he initially appeared to improve. However, his persistent resentment toward Con Edison remained unchanged. Despite multiple petitions for reevaluation, his most significant release came in September 1973 after 17 years, though he continued to harbor bitterness [57:14]. He lived out his remaining years in Waterbury, reflecting on his tumultuous life until his death in 1994 [58:30].
Conclusion: A Complex Legacy
Elena and Ash conclude the episode by grappling with the moral complexities of Matesky's actions. While acknowledging his severe mistreatment and mental illness, they emphasize that his choice to harm innocent people was indefensible. The case serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating effects of neglecting employee welfare and the dire consequences of untreated mental health issues.
Ash: "What he did was so incredibly wrong."
Elena: "You can't cause innocent people harm because of something that was done to you by a corporation."
The episode encapsulates a tragic narrative of personal suffering, systemic failure, and the irrevocable harm that unfolds when grievances fester into vengeance.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Elena [08:27]: “A bomb buried in one of the seats in the 15th row exploded, sending shrapnel and pieces of chair everywhere, injuring two women and two boys.”
- Alice Kelly [33:57]: “We’ve given up everything for ourselves to provide for him and give him everything he wants and needs.”
- George Matesky [49:44]: “Fair play.”
- Elena [52:38]: “He just doesn't see this as something he did wrong. It's just something he did periodically. This is justice.”
- Judge Samuel Leibowitz [54:07]: “One would be less than human not to be sympathetically moved by this pitiful condition of this hopeless, incurable man.”
- George Matesky [57:17]: “I have no bitterness, but I wanted to show up what was done to me.”
This episode of Morbid offers a compelling exploration of a case where personal trauma intersected with mental illness, leading to a prolonged period of fear and uncertainty in New York City. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Elena and Ash present a nuanced narrative that encourages listeners to reflect on the importance of addressing workplace grievances and mental health with compassion and responsibility.