Noble Podcast - Episode 2: The Special Agents | Chapter 2

Introduction

In the second episode of the gripping podcast series "Noble," host Sean Raviv takes listeners deeper into the harrowing discovery of over 300 bodies on a single property in Noble, Georgia. Titled "The Special Agents," this episode introduces key figures in the investigation, notably Special Agent Greg Ramey of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) and Robin Hedden from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Their combined efforts unravel the dark secrets of the Marsh family's Tri State Crematory.

The Unexpected Call

At the heart of this episode is a pivotal moment when Robin Hedden receives a troubling voicemail. At [04:59], Robin mentions, "It was a female's voice, and she said that she's walked her dog and that she had found. Her dog had found a human body part near a creek, and she wanted it to be looked into." This disturbing message sets the stage for the subsequent investigation, highlighting Robin's commitment to his role despite the seemingly bizarre nature of the complaint.

Robin Hedden: The EPA's Detective

Robin Hedden isn't your typical environmental agent. As he explains at [05:35], "An environmental crime can be dynamic. I can pollute here, and it can affect somebody, you know, 10 miles down the road." His dual expertise as a scientist and a law enforcement officer equips him uniquely for this case. Despite being assigned routine office tasks on February 15, 2002, Robin's dedication leads him to pursue the mysterious voicemail further.

The Journey to Noble

Determined to verify the claim, Robin and his partner Larry embark on a 100-mile drive from Atlanta to Noble. Their mission is shrouded in secrecy to avoid tipping off the Marsh family, known for their reputable standing in the community. As they navigate the expansive and wooded landscapes of Noble, their search initially proves futile, leading them to consider calling it a lost day.

A Chilling Discovery

However, fate has other plans. While regrouping near the crematory, Robin spots something unusual: "I saw this shiny little, kind of a brownish looking, thought it was a rock... It was the upper part of a cranium" ([10:35]). The realization hits hard as both Robin and Larry react in disbelief: "Holy shit. That's a skull." ([11:20]). This discovery transforms their routine investigation into a scene straight out of a horror movie.

Entering the Tri State Crematory

The gravity of the situation intensifies with the arrival of Special Agent Greg Ramey ([13:09]). Greg, with deep roots in Walker County and ties to the Marsh family, brings both expertise and personal connections to the case. His skepticism is evident as he rationalizes the find: "So I'm thinking probably somebody somewhere else, you know, has died. It's been a long time since, you know, the person died." ([13:26]). However, his professional instincts soon override his initial doubts.

Confrontation and Confirmation

Upon reaching the Tri State Crematory, Greg observes Brent Marsh, the crematory operator, displaying signs of fear. As they explore further, Greg discovers multiple bodies in various states of decomposition. Reflecting on his shock, Greg shares at [23:10], "He was already outside... It just wasn't a terrible bad odor," indicating the depth of the concealment. The team uncovers around 40 bodies on the Marsh property within the first day, a revelation that shakes the community to its core.

Unveiling the Atrocities

The Butler building, a substantial metal structure on the property, becomes the epicenter of the grisly findings. Greg recounts the horrifying discovery: "Bodies... just lying about on the floor just everywhere you look." ([22:18]). The realization that a respected family could perpetrate such heinous acts is a significant blow. The lack of immediate odor due to the cool February weather adds to the complexity, allowing the bodies to remain undetected for longer periods.

Interactions with Brent Marsh

Greg's interactions with Brent Marsh are tense and laden with unspoken truths. As they begin identifying the bodies, discrepancies in Brent's knowledge raise red flags. Greg confronts Brent's lack of documentation, leading to further suspicions about the extent of the Marsh family's involvement: "I need your help... I need the book." ([24:22]). Brent's eventual compliance by providing loose sheets of paper only deepens the mystery surrounding the crematory's operations.

The Aftermath and Emotional Toll

By the end of the day, the enormity of the discovery leaves Greg emotionally drained. He confides to his family, "This thing is... This is going to be huge." ([29:14]), highlighting the personal cost of uncovering such a massive crime scene. The community's perception of the Marsh family is shattered, replacing respect with suspicion and fear.

Notable Quotes

• Robin Hedden at [05:35]: "An environmental crime can be dynamic. I can pollute here, and it can affect somebody, you know, 10 miles down the road."

• Robin Hedden at [27:22]: "This looked like a horror movie. That's the first thing I thought. I was like, my God, there's skeletons everywhere."

• Greg Ramey at [13:26]: "So I'm thinking probably somebody somewhere else, you know, has died. It's been a long time since, you know, the person died."

• Greg Ramey at [14:13]: "I had even told my wife, if something happens to me, don't bury me. Just take me up to Morris Crematory, have me cremated, scatter my ashes."

• Greg Ramey at [30:36]: "The biggest betrayal I've ever felt in my life."

Conclusion

Episode 2 of "Noble" masterfully unravels the disturbing layers of the Tri State Crematory case, showcasing the relentless pursuit of justice by dedicated agents like Greg Ramey and Robin Hedden. Through vivid storytelling and firsthand accounts, Sean Raviv paints a comprehensive picture of the complexities and emotional turmoil involved in uncovering one of the most shocking mass fatalities in recent American history. As the investigation unfolds, listeners are left contemplating the depths of human deception and the profound impact on a small, tightly-knit community.