MrBallen Podcast: Episode Summary – "Underworld" (Podcast Exclusive Episode)

Release Date: November 4, 2024
Host: Ballen Studios
Podcast: MrBallen Podcast: Strange, Dark & Mysterious Stories

Introduction

In this exclusive episode titled "Underworld," hosted by Ballen Studios, listeners are immersed in a chilling true-crime narrative that intertwines elements of the occult, psychological turmoil, and familial tragedy. The story unfolds in the rural landscapes of Loudoun County, Virginia, where a heinous murder disrupts the serene community, leading investigators down a dark and twisted path.

The Discovery of Dr. Robert Schwartz's Murder (00:00 - 10:30)

The episode begins on a cold Monday afternoon in December 2001. Two police officers respond to a frantic 911 call reporting a man found gruesomely injured in the kitchen of a farmhouse. As they cautiously enter the silent, creaky house, they discover the lifeless body of Dr. Robert Schwartz, a respected biophysicist, covered in blood.

A pivotal moment occurs when one officer notices an unusual mark on Dr. Schwartz's neck. As he pulls down the victim's collar, he fears they may be dealing with devil-worshipping occultists roaming their community. This discovery sets the tone for the investigation's eerie and mysterious nature.

Notable Quote:
"It was obvious to both of them that he was dead." (00:12)

Introducing Dr. Robert Schwartz and His Family (10:31 - 20:45)

Delving into Dr. Schwartz's personal life, the host paints a picture of a devoted father who lost his wife to cancer four years prior. This tragedy deeply affected their three children, especially Clara, who was only 15 at the time and descended into a severe depression after witnessing her mother's death. Over the years, Clara emerges from her gloom, finding solace in creating a fantasy game called "Underworld" and forming close friendships centered around Renaissance fairs.

Dr. Schwartz's work as a biophysicist at the Center for Innovative Technology is highlighted, emphasizing his dedication to DNA research and his contrasts between the sterile lab environment and his rustic farmhouse home.

Notable Quote:
"Clara had created a fantasy game called Underworld, and the kids all spent a lot of time playing it." (15:20)

The Investigation Begins (20:46 - 35:10)

Two days after the murder, investigator Greg Locke is alerted to Dr. Schwartz's disappearance after missing an important work meeting. Promptly, Locke initiates an investigation, visiting Robert's farmhouse. Upon arrival, he finds the home seemingly untouched since the construction crew had left hours earlier. However, the absence of any signs of forced entry or struggle intensifies the mystery.

Locke interviews neighbors and discovers that on the night of the murder, two teenagers had their car stuck on the dead-end road near Robert's house. The tow truck driver, Michael Foale, claims the teenagers avoided paying the towing fee by leaving without settling their bill—a suspicious detail that initially points toward potential suspects.

Notable Quote:
"The savagery of the stabbing itself supported that theory because it suggested a highly emotional killer who felt true rage towards the victim." (30:15)

Unearthing Strange Clues (35:11 - 50:00)

Further analysis reveals that the murder weapon was an unusually long blade, at least two feet in length, indicating the possibility of a ritualistic killing. This discovery steers the investigation towards the occult, but Locke remains cautious, opting to follow the simpler lead regarding the teenagers.

Locke's pursuit leads him to Michael Foale, who deceitfully claims the teenagers fled without paying, hiding the truth that they were actually trying to pay via an ATM. This revelation casts doubt on the initial suspicions and suggests a more complex motive behind the murder.

Notable Quote:
"The murder weapon had such a long blade only strengthened their fear that this murder might have a ritualistic or even satanic element to it." (45:50)

Connecting the Dots: Clara and Kyle (50:01 - 1:10:30)

Investigator Locke faces a dead-end until he interviews Clara and her sister Michelle at James Madison University. Clara recalls a recent friend of her father, Kyle Hulbert, who exhibited strange behavior and had a concealed weapons charge. Her mention of Kyle introduces a crucial lead linking him to the murder weapon's unique characteristics.

Subsequent investigations uncover that Kyle Hulbert, along with Michael Foale and his girlfriend, were deeply involved in Clara's fantasy game "Underworld." This game blurred the lines between reality and fiction for Kyle, who struggled with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, leading him to believe that Dr. Schwartz posed a real threat.

Notable Quote:
"Clara slowly listed off the names of some of her dad's closest friends, but said none of them had a grudge..." (1:05:20)

Revelations and Arrests (1:10:31 - 1:38:41)

Locke's persistence pays off when Michael Foale is apprehended and reveals the true nature of the night in question. A search warrant leads to the discovery of a long sword and documents about human sacrifice at Michael's home, directly linking him to the murder. However, the most shocking revelation surfaces when it is uncovered that Clara Schwartz orchestrated the entire plot. Consumed by paranoia and convinced her father intended to murder her, Clara manipulated Kyle and the others to eliminate Robert.

The climax arrives in February 2002 when Clara is arrested and sentenced to 48 years in prison for first-degree murder and conspiracy, alongside Kyle and Michael receiving their respective sentences. The use of DNA research—Dr. Schwartz's own field—played a pivotal role in solidifying the evidence against them by matching blood traces to the murder weapon.

Notable Quote:
"Clara herself was the driving force behind the murder of her father." (1:35:45)

Conclusion

"Underworld" is a gripping tale of how fantasy and reality can dangerously intertwine, leading to tragic consequences. The episode skillfully navigates through the complexities of mental health, the allure of escapism, and the devastating impact of familial loss. Investigator Greg Locke's methodical approach and the application of scientific expertise ultimately unravel the sinister plot, delivering justice for Dr. Robert Schwartz.

Listeners are left reflecting on the thin line between reality and delusion, and how deeply one's psyche can influence actions with catastrophic outcomes.

Additional Information

For those intrigued by this story and eager for more strange, dark, and mysterious tales, Ballen Studios offers a variety of related podcasts, including "Mr. Ballin's Medical Mysteries," "Bedtime Stories," "Wartime Stories," and "Runful." These can be accessed through major podcast platforms or the Mr. Ballin YouTube channel.

Notable Quote from Credits:
"Thank you for listening to the Mr. Ballin podcast. If you liked today's story and you're looking for more strange, dark and mysterious content, be sure to check out all our studio's podcasts." (1:37:00)

Disclaimer: This summary is based on the transcript provided and aims to encapsulate the key elements of the "Underworld" episode for those who have not listened to it.