Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast Summary

Episode Title: The Rub Out – Tales of the Texas Rangers
Original Air Date: February 3, 1952
Release Date: May 28, 2025
Host: Andrew Rines
Starring: Joel McCrae as Ranger Jace Pearson
Transcript Duration: 30:17 minutes

Introduction

In this gripping episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rines presents a digitally restored reenactment of a classic Texas Rangers case titled "The Rub Out." Starring Joel McCrae as Ranger Jace Pearson, the story delves into the mysterious death of a promising boxer, Johnny Buck, unraveling a tale of jealousy, betrayal, and meticulous investigation.

The Crime: A Deadly Fight Night [02:28 - 06:31]

The episode opens on a humid July night in 1936 at a border town's dimly lit fight arena. Johnny Buck, an ex-cowpoke turned boxer, is preparing for his match with the help of his handler, Slim Corey.

Gordon MacRae (as Slim Corey): "Hold still, cowboy. What are you talking about? You know I'm talking about Mike Morales kid sister, Nina. And don't go calling her no Philly."
[03:21]

As the fight progresses, tensions rise. Midway through, Johnny Buck collapses in the ring, bleeding from a cut over his eye. The crowd's concern escalates as medical help rushes him to the hospital, where Sheriff Haynes suspects foul play.

Initial Investigation: Suspicions Arise [06:31 - 14:05]

Ranger Jace Pearson teams up with Sheriff Haynes to investigate Johnny's sudden collapse. The absence of Buck's manager, Mike Morales, raises immediate red flags.

Gordon MacRae (as Sheriff Haynes): "What's wrong, cowboy? Johnny Buck to a neutral corner. He collapsed to the canvas."
[05:04]

Interviews reveal that Morales had a motive rooted in his disapproval of his sister, Nina Morales, and Johnny Buck's intentions to elope with her. Nina's emotional testimony hints at domestic strife and impending betrayal.

Nina Morales: "When I told him Johnny and I were going to get married, he went wild. He slapped me. And then he and Johnny headed out."
[09:14]

Forensic Breakthrough: The Nitroglycerin Clue [15:18 - 21:44]

The autopsy report unveils that Johnny Buck was not poisoned by traditional means but succumbed to nitroglycerin poisoning. This discovery shifts the investigation towards a more calculated method of foul play.

Mike Morales: "Nitroglycerin is an odorless liquid, dissolves in alcohol. Johnny could have had a rub down before he entered the ring. If the rubbing liniment had been spiked, his skin would absorb enough of it in the heat of action to kill him."
[14:49]

Ranger Pearson and Sheriff Haynes deduce that the poison was likely introduced through Johnny's liniment, narrowing down the suspects further.

Unraveling Motives: Chico Valdez in Focus [23:35 - 26:44]

Investigation leads to Chico Valdez, a rival handler with a history of animosity towards Johnny Buck. Through interviews and evidence collection, Chico's jealousy and past confrontations surface as significant motives.

Mike Morales: "Taste everything points to him like a signpost. Strong jealousy motive. Deliberate lies about his friendship for Johnny Buck."
[23:37]

A dramatic confrontation at Chico's residence culminates in his arrest, solidifying the case against him.

Conclusion: Justice Served [27:56 - 28:21]

The episode concludes with Chico Valdez's confession and subsequent sentencing. Ranger Pearson's unwavering dedication to justice ensures that the truth prevails, delivering closure to the affected parties.

Gordon MacRae (as Ranger Pearson): "Chico confessed to the premeditated murder of Johnny Buck."
[27:59]

Epilogue and Teasers

The host, Andrew Rines, wraps up the episode by highlighting the successful resolution of the case and teasing future installments, maintaining the listener's anticipation for more riveting Texas Rangers tales.

Key Takeaways

• Meticulous Investigation: The Texas Rangers showcased exemplary investigative skills, combining forensic evidence with keen interrogation to unravel the mystery.

• Complex Motives: The episode highlights how personal vendettas and emotional turmoil can lead to tragic outcomes.

• Forensic Science in Storytelling: The use of nitroglycerin poisoning as a plot device underscores the importance of scientific analysis in solving crimes.

Notable Quotes

• Slim Corey on Nina Morales:
  "You know I'm talking about Mike Morales kid sister, Nina. And don't go calling her no Philly."
  [03:21]

• Ranger Pearson on Investigation:
  "Nitroglycerin is an odorless liquid, dissolves in alcohol... If the rubbing liniment had been spiked, his skin would absorb enough of it..."
  [14:49]

• Mike Morales on Motive:
  "Taste everything points to him like a signpost. Strong jealousy motive."
  [23:37]

Conclusion

The Rub Out – Tales of the Texas Rangers masterfully blends suspense, character development, and investigative prowess, offering listeners an immersive experience into the golden age of radio Westerns. Through enhanced audio restoration, the episode brings to life a timeless story of justice and retribution on the Wild West frontier.