Podcast Summary: "Papi Killed Mommy"
Episode: The Final Interview
Host: Nikki Wassolichen
Release Date: July 28, 2025
Introduction to the Episode
In "The Final Interview," Nikki Wassolichen delves into the last recorded conversation with Russell Bennett Peterson, the man accused of murdering her mother, Stacy Wassolichen. This pivotal episode provides listeners with unprecedented access to the final interview conducted by the Sedona Police Department on September 3, 1993. Nikki emphasizes the significance of this interview, highlighting Russell's inconsistent narratives and evasive behavior, which have cast long shadows over the quest for justice in her mother's case.
Notable Quote:
"Listen closely not just to what he says, but to what he avoids saying." [00:10]
The Final Interview with Russell Bennett Peterson
The core of the episode revolves around the detailed transcript of the interview between Detective Walters, Lieutenant Dana Schmidt, and Russell Peterson. Nikki presents this conversation to showcase the discrepancies and contradictions in Russell's account of the night Stacy was killed.
Initial Statements and Phone Call Analysis
Russell begins by discussing unusual phone calls from Stacy to another individual, Craig, suggesting possible premeditation on her part. He offers to provide his telephone bill as evidence, implying that Stacy's repeated calls were suspicious and may indicate her intent to harm him.
Notable Quote:
"There was no reason for her to really have to call back... which leads me to believe that something went on with the conversation." [03:27]
Contradictions in the Struggle Narrative
As the interview progresses, Russell oscillates between claiming there was no struggle and suggesting there might have been one. He describes the physical evidence, such as the placement of the gun and the trajectory of the bullet, to argue that Stacy had premeditated the attack. However, forensic evidence and witness statements contradict his version, indicating Stacy was in a defensive posture during the shooting.
Notable Quote:
"I never in six years ever raised a hand to her." [07:54]
Inconsistencies in the Description of the Shooting
Russell's account of how Stacy fell after being shot is notably inconsistent. Initially, he describes her legs buckling and her falling forward, only to later claim he couldn't see her hands due to darkness and that she fell on her back. These conflicting descriptions undermine his credibility and suggest a deliberate attempt to obscure the truth.
Notable Quote:
"How do you explain forgetting all this?" [29:12]
Evasive Behavior and Lack of Cooperation
Detective Walters confronts Russell about his changing stories and refusal to undergo a polygraph test or participate in a reenactment of the crime scene. Russell's evasiveness and sudden withdrawal of cooperation raise suspicions, further weakening his defense.
Notable Quote:
"I can't explain it." [22:53]
Nikki's Analysis and Reflections
Following the transcript, Nikki provides a critical analysis of Russell's interview, highlighting several key points that cast doubt on his innocence:
-
Shifting Narratives: Russell's story changes with each interview, indicating potential dishonesty.
-
Premeditation Claims: He attempts to portray Stacy as having planned his murder, contradicting other evidence.
-
Scripted Aggression: The statement "Russell, I'm going to kill you" appears rehearsed and manipulative.
-
Contradictory Descriptions of Stacy's Fall: Different accounts of how Stacy fell suggest memory fabrication.
-
Distraction Tactics: Russell diverts attention to his career and relationship issues to appear sympathetic.
-
Misrepresentation of Witness Statements: He attempts to undermine his sister's account of witnessing him move the gun.
-
Scientific Evidence Contradictions: Forensic findings do not support his claims of Stacy acting in self-defense.
-
Unexplained Behavior: His refusal to continue cooperating with the investigation through polygraphs and reenactments raises red flags.
Notable Quote:
"His story shifts with every telling. He creates a convenient villain out of my mom..." [36:52]
Investigation Closure and Subsequent Developments
Nikki details the timeline following the final interview:
-
October 14, 1993: Russell provides his current telephone number.
-
October 15, 1993: He voluntarily submits a copy of his July telephone bill.
-
November 9, 1993: Yavapai County Attorney Jim Landis concludes there is insufficient evidence to prosecute Russell, citing inconsistencies and inconclusive forensic results.
-
November 18, 1993: Scientific examinations on the weapon are canceled, further stalling the investigation.
-
December 8, 1993: The Sedona Police Department and Yavapai County Attorney's office officially close the investigation, declaring the case unresolved.
Nikki expresses frustration over the abrupt closure of the investigation despite tangible evidence suggesting foul play.
Notable Quote:
"The investigation was over. Nothing really moved on my mom's case again for years." [35:22]
Impact on Nikki and Her Family
The unresolved case deeply affects Nikki and her family. Christmas 1993 becomes a poignant memory, as the absence of their mother disrupts the usual holiday magic. A year later, during a postponed Disneyland trip, Nikki's little sister alters her narrative from accusing Russell to claiming their mother committed suicide, adding another layer of complexity and confusion to the case.
Notable Quote:
"Poppy killed Mommy. Poppy killed Mommy. Poppy killed Mommy." [36:52]
Conclusion and Upcoming Episode Teaser
Nikki concludes the episode by emphasizing the persistent inconsistencies in Russell's accounts and the investigative process's shortcomings. She sets the stage for the next episode, which will explore the drastic change in her sister's testimony and the ensuing decade of uncertainty.
Notable Quote:
"I'll keep telling this story until there is no more story left to tell or no more breath in my body. Thank you for listening." [Final Remarks]
Supporting the Podcast
Nikki encourages listeners to support "Papi Killed Mommy" to continue uncovering the truth behind her mother's tragic death. She provides avenues for donations and ways to contribute information that may shed light on the case.
Support Links:
- Support on Buzzsprout
- GoFundMe (Link in episode notes)
- Social Media: Follow on TikTok and Instagram @ikolewassolichen
Final Thoughts
"The Final Interview" serves as a crucial piece in Nikki Wassolichen's relentless pursuit of justice for her mother. By presenting the transcript alongside her insightful analysis, Nikki underscores the pressing need for accountability and truth in unresolved cases of domestic violence and homicide.
Listeners are left with a heightened sense of urgency and anticipation for the forthcoming episodes, which promise to unravel more layers of this haunting mystery.
Disclaimer: The podcast contains discussions of domestic violence, homicide, and other potentially distressing topics. Listener discretion is advised.