Murder: True Crime Stories

Episode: SOLVED: The Co-ed Murder 1
Host: Carter Roy
Release Date: March 4, 2025

Introduction to Theora Hicks' Tragic Story

The episode opens with Carter Roy setting the stage for a haunting exploration into the life and untimely death of Theora Hicks, a promising 24-year-old medical student whose life was brutally cut short in 1929. Drawing listeners into the historical context, Carter emphasizes the sensationalism surrounding Theora's murder and the long-term impact of the narrative shaped by her killer.

Carter Roy [00:06]: "People's lives are like a story. There's a beginning, a middle, and an end. But you don't always know which part you're on."

Theora Hicks’ Background and Ambitious Aspirations

Carter delves into Theora's early life, highlighting her upbringing as the only child of Melvin and Joanna Hicks in upstate New York. Despite her parents' traditional Victorian values, Theora was a trailblazer, aspiring to join the rare ranks of female physicians in the early 20th century. Her move to Flushing, Queens, exposed her to new opportunities, fueling her determination to pursue higher education.

Narration [05:24]: "As the only child of Melvin and Joanna Hicks, Fiora was her parents' pride and joy... By the time Theora was in high school, she dreamed of becoming a doctor."

Despite the challenges of limited opportunities for women at Ohio State University (OSU), Theora remained steadfast, balancing her studies with a stenography job to fund her education. Her quiet and private nature is emphasized through anecdotes from her roommates, Alice and Beatrice Buston.

An Unconventional Affair with Dr. James Snook

A pivotal moment in Theora's life was her affair with Dr. James Snook, a 46-year-old OSU professor and Olympic gold medalist. Carter paints a picture of James as a charismatic yet manipulative figure who exploited Theora's ambitions and vulnerabilities. Their relationship evolved from professional interactions to a passionate and secretive affair, characterized by intense and unorthodox dynamics.

Carter Roy [12:21]: "By the time she started medical school at OSU in 1927, 22-year-old Theora had been dating 47-year-old James for about a year."

The complexity of their relationship is highlighted by Theora's progressive views on sexuality, which clashed with societal norms of the time. The introduction of substances like cantharidin raises questions about substance use and manipulation, adding layers to the investigation.

Tensions and Tragic Climax

As their affair continued, tensions between Theora and James escalated. By spring 1929, Theora's feelings for James deepened, leading to conflicts over the future of their relationship. Carter meticulously details the events leading up to June 13, 1929, the night Theora disappeared and was later found murdered.

Carter Roy [24:08]: "By the spring of 1929, 25-year-old Theora Hicks had been having an affair with 49-year-old Dr. James Snook for around three years."

The confrontation at the country club and the subsequent disappearance of Theora set the stage for a dramatic police investigation. The discovery of her body at a local rifle range revealed the brutality of the crime, marked by extensive injuries and a fatal neck wound.

Investigation and Unraveling the Truth

Carter outlines the police investigation, focusing on the primary suspects: Dr. James Snook and Marian Myers, a 33-year-old graduate student previously involved with Theora. Despite alibis and initial denials, inconsistencies in James' story and eyewitness accounts directed suspicion towards him.

Carter Roy [21:59]: "The coroner determined she had a fractured skull, bone particles lodged in her brain and a clean slice across her neck."

The testimonies of the Buston sisters and the landlady, Margaret Smalley, were crucial in connecting Theora to James Snook. The revelation of James' alias, James Howard, and his eventual confession under mounting pressure underscored his central role in the tragedy.

Carter Roy [24:08]: "The lies wouldn't last forever. Eventually, the world would learn the truth about James Snook. And it was terrifying."

Conclusion and Teaser for Part Two

As the episode concludes, Carter teases the forthcoming second part, promising a deeper dive into the investigation and the ultimate resolution of Theora Hicks' murder case. The intricate web of relationships, deceit, and ambition leaves listeners eager for the next installment.

Carter Roy [End of Transcript]: "We'll be back next Tuesday for part two of our series on the murder of Theora Hicks."

Notable Quotes

• Carter Roy [00:06]: "People's lives are like a story. There's a beginning, a middle, and an end. But you don't always know which part you're on."

• Carter Roy [05:24]: "As the only child of Melvin and Joanna Hicks, Fiora was her parents' pride and joy... By the time Theora was in high school, she dreamed of becoming a doctor."

• Carter Roy [12:21]: "By the time she started medical school at OSU in 1927, 22-year-old Theora had been dating 47-year-old James for about a year."

• Carter Roy [21:59]: "The coroner determined she had a fractured skull, bone particles lodged in her brain and a clean slice across her neck."

• Carter Roy [24:08]: "The lies wouldn't last forever. Eventually, the world would learn the truth about James Snook. And it was terrifying."

Behind the Scenes

The episode was expertly crafted by the Murder True Crime Stories team, including Max Cutler, Ron Shapiro, Alex Benedon, Natalie Pertzofsky, Lori Marinelli, Sarah Carroll, Emma Lehman, Sheila Patterson, and Russell Nash, bringing to life the intricate details of Theora Hicks' case.

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This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the first part of "SOLVED: The Co-ed Murder," providing an in-depth look into Theora Hicks' life, her tragic murder, and the ensuing investigation. With detailed sections and notable quotes, it serves as an engaging overview for both seasoned true crime enthusiasts and newcomers alike.