Serialously with Annie Elise
Episode 258: Rich Brothers, Affairs, and a Bloodbath | The Kissel Brothers
Release Date: April 7, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 258 of Serialously with Annie Elise, the host delves deep into the chilling true crime saga of the Kissel Brothers—Andrew and Robert Kissel. This episode unravels a tale of extreme wealth, sibling rivalry, deceit, and ultimately, murder. Through engaging storytelling and incisive analysis, Annie Elise paints a vivid picture of a family torn apart by greed and betrayal, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of one of the most perplexing cases in true crime history.

The Kissel Family Background

Upbringing and Sibling Rivalry

Andrew and Robert Kissel grew up in the affluent community of Saddle River, New Jersey, under the stern guidance of their father, a successful businessman who pushed both sons to achieve excellence. This environment fostered intense sibling rivalry, with each brother striving to outdo the other in every possible endeavor.

Annie Elise reflects on their childhood dynamics:

“Andrew and Robert’s whole relationship really was about competition and truly about trying to outdo one another.”
(03:02)

Career Paths and Personal Lives

• Andrew Kissel: The elder brother capitalized on family wealth to venture directly into high-stakes real estate development. His early success was bolstered by nepotism and strong family connections, allowing him to bypass the typical grind of the industry. However, this rapid ascent masked underlying issues of ethics and honesty.

• Robert Kissel: In contrast, Robert pursued a career in investment banking, working with top-tier firms like Merrill Lynch and Goldman Sachs. His role took him globally, leading him and his wife Nancy to settle in Hong Kong, where they enjoyed a life of opulence.

Nancy Kissel, Robert’s wife, was portrayed as a glamorous party enthusiast, sharply contrasting with Haley Kissel, Andrew’s wife, who embodied poise and reserve. Annie Elise notes the intriguing dynamic:

“Haley was basically the complete polar opposite of Nancy.”
(18:24)

The Disappearance and Murder of Robert Kissel

Robert's Vanishing Act

In November 2003, Robert Kissel abruptly vanished without a trace. His disappearance baffled family and friends, sparking a widespread investigation. Nancy Kissel reported him missing after a heated but seemingly inconsequential argument, maintaining an outward semblance of normalcy despite the profound crisis.

Discovery of the Body

The investigation took a grim turn when authorities discovered Robert's body in their luxurious Hong Kong apartment. Key evidence included:

• Blood-stained Items: Police found clothing and a rolled-up rug embedded with Robert’s remains, exuding a foul odor indicative of the brutality of his death.

  “Nancy could not make heads or tails of it... It started to seem a little bit off.”
  (15:29)

• Cause of Death: Robert was found with a bashed-in skull, conclusively indicating he was bludgeoned to death. The severity of his injuries suggested premeditation and significant force.

Nancy Kissel's Arrest and Trial

Arrest and Initial Trial

Nancy Kissel was swiftly arrested shortly after Robert’s body was found, primarily due to incriminating evidence within the apartment. The forensic details pointed directly to her involvement:

“Nancy had been sleeping in the same bed as Robert's corpse for days after he was killed.”
(19:58)

Defense and Conviction

Nancy initially pleaded self-defense, alleging years of abuse and portraying Robert as an alcoholic and aggressive individual. Her defense claimed that Robert had attacked her, prompting a desperate act of self-preservation. However, the prosecution countered this narrative with overwhelming evidence of premeditation and financial motives.

Notable Testimony:

“She really thought he was going to kill her, that he had a bad temper... And then he just blanks out.”
(51:14)

Despite a successful appeal citing procedural errors, a retrial reinforced the original verdict. Nancy was ultimately convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison.

Final Verdict and Aftermath

Nancy’s conviction highlighted the complex interplay of personal vendettas and financial desperation, serving as a stark reminder of how wealth and power can corrupt.

Andrew Kissel's Fraud and Murder

Andrew's Downfall

While Robert was embroiled in his own tumultuous situation, Andrew Kissel's fraudulent activities came to light. As Treasurer of his building's co-op board in New York, Andrew abused his position to embezzle millions through various schemes, including:

• Skimming HOA Funds: He exploited renovation projects to siphon funds, often under the guise of legitimate expenses.

  “Andrew managed to steal millions, multiple millions, because he basically stole from every single project that he worked on.”
  (26:28)

• Mortgage Fraud: Andrew engaged in elaborate mortgage fraud across multiple states, forging signatures and securing multiple loans on the same properties.

Discovery and Arrest

Andrew's unscrupulous actions eventually caught up with him when inconsistencies in notarized documents were uncovered. A pivotal moment was the realization that he had used the same notary stamp across various jurisdictions, raising red flags among his business associates.

“He dressed well. He knew the right people. They all assumed that they could just trust him.”
(56:06)

Andrew's Murder

In 2006, facing mounting legal troubles and a potential prison sentence, Andrew was found murdered in his Staten Island home. His body bore multiple stab wounds, and he was found tied up, suggesting a personal and deliberate execution rather than a random act of violence.

The Investigation and Culprits

Investigators probed numerous theories, eventually linking his murder to financial motives. Key suspects included:

• Carlos Trujillo: Andrew’s chauffeur, who was acquitted of murder but convicted of attempted murder.

• Leonard and Jair: Cousins linked to cartel activities, who felt threatened by Andrew’s financial deceptions and potential to expose their illicit operations.

Leonard struck a plea deal, acknowledging his role in the conspiracy to murder Andrew, while Jair’s fate remains unclear.

Aftermath and Reflections

Impact on the Kissel Family

The dual tragedies within the Kissel family not only decimated their wealth but also shattered familial bonds. Robert and Nancy’s children were placed under the custody of their maternal uncle, Leonard, aiming to shield them from the heinous crimes that plagued their lineage.

“The wealth, the success, the insane houses. It didn't protect Andrew and Robert from the super dark realities of greed and betrayal.”
(71:16)

Nancy’s Continued Influence

Even after her incarceration, Nancy maintained an obsessive connection with her former lover, Michael, the electrician with whom she had an affair. Her relentless correspondence underscored possible underlying psychological issues, further complicating the narrative of her character.

Annie Elise’s Reflections

Annie Elise concludes with profound insights into the case, emphasizing the deceptive nature of appearances and the hidden struggles that can reside behind seemingly perfect exteriors.

“This case was wild. But thanks for tuning in with me. I'll be back on the mic with you first thing on Thursday...”
(Annie’s closing remarks)

Her final thoughts serve as a poignant reminder of the complexities of human nature and the often unseen battles individuals face, regardless of their outward success.

Conclusion

Episode 258 of Serialously with Annie Elise masterfully navigates the intricate and dark narrative of the Kissel Brothers. Through meticulous examination of their lives, crimes, and the ensuing investigations, the episode underscores the fragile veneer of wealth and success. It serves as a compelling exploration of how familial pressures, personal demons, and unchecked ambition can lead to catastrophic outcomes. For true crime enthusiasts and casual listeners alike, this episode offers a gripping and insightful journey into one of the most disturbing family sagas in recent history.