Podcast Summary: Papi Killed Mommy - Episode: The Day They Told Me
Introduction and Context
In the emotionally charged episode titled "The Day They Told Me", host Nikki Wasolichen delves deeper into the tragic night her mother was murdered. As the tenth anniversary of the incident approaches, Nikki recounts the harrowing experiences of that day, the immediate aftermath, and the subsequent interactions with law enforcement. This episode aims to shed light on the inconsistencies and potential cover-ups surrounding her mother's death.
Trigger Warning and Episode Overview
Nikki begins the episode with a [00:12] trigger warning, cautioning listeners about graphic discussions of domestic violence and homicide. She emphasizes the podcast's commitment to portraying her mother's story with raw honesty while reminding listeners that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The Fateful Day: July 11, 1993
Nikki recounts the pivotal day when she was informed of her mother's death, describing it as the worst day of her life. At ten years old, she was taken to the Sedona Police Department by her foster family. In a stark, impersonal room filled with strangers, the only familiar face was Russell Peterson, her mother's boyfriend and her little sister's father.
Nikki Wasolichen [00:50]: "I sat frozen in a chair, facing people I didn't recognize and people I didn't trust. The only familiar face in that room was my mother's boyfriend, Russell Peterson."
Russell delivered the devastating news, attempting to comfort Nikki while her sister remained oblivious, playing with toys as if nothing had happened. Nikki recalls a particularly jarring memory of a pink Jeep tour Russell took them on just hours after the tragedy, highlighting his manipulative behavior.
Nikki Wasolichen [02:20]: "Just hours after telling me my mother was dead, he took us on a pink Jeep tour through Sedona, a fun, scenic ride."
Police Interrogation: Russell Peterson’s Walkthrough
A significant portion of the episode focuses on Russell Peterson's interrogation by Detective Walter Spokes. Nikki provides excerpts from the transcript, illustrating Peterson's contradictory and evasive statements.
Russell Peterson [05:02]: "I was sitting right here like this after I came home after I took the shower... She says Russell, I am going to shoot you."
Peterson's account fluctuates between claiming there was no struggle and hinting at possible conflict. His narrative introduces dubious details, such as the discovery of a hidden bottle of Seagram's whiskey in Nikki's mother's bag, which Nikki later challenges.
Nikki Wasolichen [15:06]: "I know the first thing you're probably thinking is what recorder? I've never brought this up because there is no evidence of finding it."
Father’s Interview: Craig Daly’s Testimony
Nikki interviews her father, Craig Daly, shedding light on his perspective and the discrepancies between his account and the police reports. Craig reveals that his interview with the authorities was uncooperative, leading to tension and a lack of closure.
Craig Daly [17:51]: "He jumped all over me about, 'You don't have any proof.'"
Craig disputes the existence of the alleged phone recorder Russell mentioned, suggesting it was either disposed of or never existed. He also confirms his mother's affair with a handyman, adding complexity to the case.
Craig Daly [22:36]: "No, he just made it up or something because I didn't say some of those things he said."
Post-Funeral Events and Investigation Shortcomings
Following the funeral on July 14, 1993, Nikki details the fragmented and incomplete investigation by the Sedona Police Department. Key events include:
- July 29, 1993: Russell Peterson submits his fingerprints.
- August 2, 1993: Examination of the Ruger Redhawk revolver reveals no identifiable fingerprints.
- August 3, 1993: Police reenact the shooting, concluding that Nikki's mother couldn't have fired the weapon alone.
- August 11, 1993: Dr. Philip Keene classifies the death as a homicide based on gunpowder residue.
- August 17, 1993: Dr. Keene confirms her defensive posture at the time of the shooting.
Nikki points out glaring omissions in the investigation, such as the lack of subpoenas, absence of phone and financial record examinations, and limited interviews of Russell Peterson.
Nikki Wasolichen [20:25]: "I'm not sure what to think of the investigators having skipped my dad's interview, but I can tell you I've always been upset by the fact that they never drove down to Phoenix and talked to my father in person."
Emotional Reflections and Unanswered Questions
Throughout the episode, Nikki shares poignant memories, including her mother’s funeral and the lasting impact of that day on her life. She emphasizes the unresolved nature of the case and the continuous search for truth.
Nikki Wasolichen [24:00]: "But nobody took the next step."
Conclusion and Call to Action
Nikki concludes the episode by outlining the subsequent steps in the investigation and hinting at future episodes that will explore the remaining interviews and evidence. She also expresses gratitude to her supporters and encourages listeners to contribute to keeping her mother's story alive.
Nikki Wasolichen [28:44]: "If you have any information that could help in my mother's case, please contact the Sedona Police Department at 928-282-3100 and join me next week as I continue the story until there is no more story to tell or no more breath in my body."
Key Takeaways
- Manipulation and Inconsistencies: Russell Peterson's behavior and testimonies raise suspicions about his involvement and the true circumstances surrounding the murder.
- Incomplete Investigation: Despite clear indicators of foul play, the investigation lacked thoroughness, leaving many questions unanswered.
- Family Dynamics: The separation of siblings and the differing accounts from family members highlight the complex interpersonal relationships affected by the tragedy.
- Unresolved Evidence: Critical evidence, such as the Ruger revolver, remains unexamined, suggesting potential oversights or intentional neglect by authorities.
Notable Quotes
- Nikki Wasolichen [00:50]: "I sat frozen in a chair, facing people I didn't recognize and people I didn't trust."
- Russell Peterson [05:02]: "I am volunteering this to you."
- Craig Daly [22:43]: "The cop was ad libent as he went along there. Plus he had a bad attitude."
- Nikki Wasolichen [15:06]: "There has been no evidence of a recorder. Nothing like that was ever turned up in the case."
Final Thoughts
"The Day They Told Me" serves as a poignant exploration of Nikki Wasolichen’s relentless pursuit of truth amidst familial betrayal and investigative shortcomings. The episode not only chronicles the personal anguish of losing a mother but also critiques the systemic failures that have kept this case unresolved for decades. As Nikki continues her quest for answers, listeners are left contemplating the deeper implications of justice and memory.