Park Predators – "The Stranger" (September 9, 2025)
Host: Delia D’Ambra
Overview
In this gripping episode, host and investigative journalist Delia D’Ambra delves into one of the earliest documented murders on the Appalachian Trail: the 1974 killing of Joel Polson at the Low Gap Shelter in Georgia. Featuring first-time audio testimony from Margaret Harrod—the 17-year-old survivor who witnessed Joel’s murder and was subsequently taken hostage—Delia reconstructs the sequence of events, the investigation, and the aftershocks of a crime that remains a chilling reminder of the dangers that can lurk in even the most beautiful natural places.
Key Topics & Discussion Points
1. Setting the Scene and Survivor’s Perspective
[02:23]
- Delia introduces the case as a story of both tragedy and remarkable survival.
- First full audio account from Margaret Harrod, who survived the attack as a teenager.
- Context: In 1974, the Appalachian Trail was not widely known for violent crime; hitchhiking was common, and law enforcement communication was far less integrated.
"Something I hope each and every one of you takes away from this episode is that stranger danger is very real... It's not just a saying that we teach to young children and teenagers. It's a mantra adults should keep in mind too, because the truth is, strangers can be dangerous, sometimes even deadly."
—Delia D’Ambra [03:49]
2. Discovery of the Crime and Margaret’s Ordeal
[05:02] – [20:00]
- On May 10, 1974, Margaret calls police from a bus station, recounting the murder and her harrowing captivity.
- Police were initially suspicious of Margaret due to her “alternative appearance” and circumstances.
- Recap of Margaret and Joel’s backgrounds and their friendship, not romantic as first reported.
- Timeline:
- Margaret and Joel meet in Columbia, SC, develop a friendship, and agree to hike the AT together.
- Encounter “Ralph” at the Low Gap Shelter—described as short, glasses, mustache, with minimal camping gear.
- Joel expresses unease about Ralph; the next morning, Margaret wakes to Joel being shot.
- Ralph binds and repeatedly moves Margaret, ultimately forcing her to travel with him for two days—culminating in a tense night at a motel before she is freed.
"As they hiked, they bumped into other travelers... Margaret did her best to act normal because Ralph had warned her beforehand that if she indicated to anyone that she was in trouble, he would kill her and whoever they came in contact with."
—Delia D’Ambra [26:22]
3. Investigation and Capture of Ralph Fox
[30:00] – [38:00]
- Margaret is quickly cleared as a suspect after a polygraph and is viewed as a critical witness.
- Massive manhunt and composite sketch lead to Ralph Fox being identified and arrested in Atlanta.
- Evidence: Joel’s belongings, revolver, and a map marking the crime scene found in Fox’s possession.
- Fox’s background: prior convictions for kidnapping, escape, and violence.
"He was quickly identified... as 31 year old Ralph Howard Fox, a Michigan native who'd previously been incarcerated for breaking and entering, kidnapping and escaping custody. He was wanted... for violating the conditions of his parole."
—Delia D’Ambra [34:55]
4. Legal Aftermath, Survivor’s Journey, and Fox's Subsequent Crimes
[38:00] – [45:00]
- Fox sentenced to life in prison with parole eligibility in 7 years—much to Margaret’s horror.
- After parole, Fox returns to Michigan, but is soon linked to the murder of Diane Good during his parole violation.
- Delia recounts Fox’s lifelong history of violence and his eventual death in prison in 2003.
- Margaret’s resilience: survived trauma, built an accomplished life, and found meaning beyond the crime.
"She made the conscious decision to take back her happiness... She realized that some greater force, far more powerful than Ralph Fox, had spared her life for a reason. And that reason was so that she could live—like truly live."
—Delia D’Ambra, paraphrasing Margaret Harrod [41:12]
5. Remembering Joel Polson
[45:00] – [47:30]
- Joel remembered as kind, gentle, and passionate about nature and photography.
- Aftereffects: Margaret credits Joel for her enduring love of the outdoors.
- The episode closes with a reflection on the enduring impact of the crime on both the victim’s and survivor’s lives.
"Sometimes when she was in nature and marveling at just how amazing the world is, she would think of Joel. She said that in many ways, she credits some of her passion for the outdoors as a gift he gave to her."
—Delia D’Ambra [47:00]
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
-
On the constant presence of danger:
“Stranger danger is very real... it’s not just a saying for kids.”
—Delia D’Ambra [03:49] -
Margaret’s survival strategy:
"Margaret did her best to act normal because Ralph had warned her beforehand that if she indicated to anyone that she was in trouble, he would kill her and whoever they came in contact with."
—Delia D’Ambra [26:22] -
Margaret on reclaiming her life:
"Maybe this experience helped me see that life is a fleeting moment, so grab it and go."
—Margaret Harrod, via Earl Swift [41:12] -
A judge’s condemnation:
"Mr. Fox, you were convicted of murder before in another state. You are now convicted of two murders in your lifetime. I am satisfied that you pose a substantial risk to a free society and that you should never be let out of prison ever, for any reason."
—Judge at Ralph Fox’s sentencing [44:00]
Timestamps for Key Segments
- [02:23] – Introduction, background, and survivor focus
- [09:00] – Details of the attack and Margaret’s hostage ordeal
- [20:00] – Margaret’s initial treatment as suspect and later as key witness
- [30:00] – The investigation, identification, and arrest of Ralph Fox
- [38:00] – Fox’s criminal history, legal proceedings, and ultimate fate
- [45:00] – Remembering Joel Polson and Margaret’s life after survival
- [47:30] – Episode reflection and closing
Tone and Style
Delia D’Ambra narrates with compassion, clarity, and attention to detail. The retelling focuses on both victim and survivor—avoiding sensationalism, honoring Joel’s life, and highlighting the resilience of Margaret Harrod. The narrative is both educational and cautionary, aligning with the series’ mission to expose “the hidden darkness haunting these natural wonders.”