Small Town Murder - Episode #548: "Kill And Let Live - Horseshoe Lake, Arkansas"

Release Date: November 30, 2024
Hosts: James Pietragallo & Jimmie Whisman

Introduction

In Episode #548 of Small Town Murder, hosts James Pietragallo and Jimmie Whisman delve into the chilling case of a double murder that shook the small, rural community of Horseshoe Lake, Arkansas. Combining thorough research with their signature comedic flair, the hosts explore the intricate details of the crime, the ensuing investigation, and the profound impact on the tight-knit town.

Background of Horseshoe Lake

Horseshoe Lake, located in northeastern Arkansas, boasts a population of just 384 residents. Situated approximately 40 minutes from Memphis, the town is characterized by its serene oxbow lake and a predominantly agricultural landscape. The median household income stands at $48,827, significantly below the national average, and the median home price is an affordable $98,200. Horseshoe Lake serves as a summer recreation spot, attracting visitors from nearby Memphis who enjoy vacation cabins by the picturesque lake.

James Pietragallo at [07:34]:
"It's a really small town, way more people than animals, probably livestock outnumbered the residents."

The Snowden Family and Snowden House

Central to the story is the prominent Snowden family, particularly Sally McKay, the daughter of Colonel Robert Snowden. The family owns the historic Snowden House, a 6,000-square-foot mansion situated on the lake's eastern tip. Originally built as a family residence, the house was later converted into a bed and breakfast and wedding venue by Sally's daughter, Martha McKay.

Martha McKay in [16:25]:
"Growing up on Horseshoe Lake had been just wonderful. I felt like royalty with the big house and servants."

The Double Murder

Initial Incident

In August 1996, Lee Baker, a local musician and high school English teacher, experienced a devastating house fire at his residence near the Snowden House. Initially presumed accidental, the fire's extreme intensity suggested arson.

James Pietragallo at [27:40]:
"You smell burning flesh here. There's something here."

Discovery of the Bodies

On September 10, 1996, firefighters responded to the Baker residence and discovered both Lee Baker and his wife, Sally McKay, dead inside the burning house. Both individuals had been shot, leading investigators to question the fire's nature.

Jimmie Whisman at [23:53]:
"Inside the burning house, they found both Sally McKay and Lee Baker shot to death."

Investigation and Suspects

Initial Investigation

Authorities launched a comprehensive search for suspects, utilizing tracking dogs, helicopters, and helicopters. Despite extensive efforts, no immediate leads emerged, causing widespread fear in the community.

James Pietragallo at [36:05]:
"People are carrying huge guns, nobody's sleeping, everyone's scared."

Travis Lewis: The Prime Suspect

The investigation initially zeroed in on Edric Smith, a 20-year-old with a troubled past. However, focus shifted to his younger brother, Travis Sante Lewis, a 15-year-old high school student and the son of Joseph Lee Baker, Lee Baker's brother.

James Pietragallo at [39:00]:
"Travis Lewis, born in 1980, is Lee's younger brother and got arrested on October 5, 1996."

Travis was arrested after failing a polygraph test, where he admitted to participating in the burglary of Lee Baker’s home. However, he denied direct involvement in the murders, claiming an unknown friend committed the act.

Jimmie Whisman at [42:04]:
"I was there to rob the house. My friend killed them and tried to burn the house down."

Forensic evidence linked Travis to the crime scene, with his DNA found in Sally's car. Despite his initial denials, Travis pleaded guilty to two counts of first-degree murder and was sentenced to 28.5 years in prison, eligible for parole after approximately 20 years.

James Pietragallo at [45:07]:
"He'll be eligible for parole in a little over 20 years."

Martha McKay's Quest for Forgiveness

After the tragic murders, Martha McKay took over the Snowden House, transforming it into a successful bed and breakfast and wedding venue. Demonstrating remarkable forgiveness, she actively supported Travis Lewis's parole, believing in his innocence and seeking closure.

Martha McKay in [53:38]:
"I think he's just a kid who made a mistake. He didn't kill her."

Her compassionate stance faced skepticism within the community, but Martha maintained her belief in Travis's innocence, fostering a complex narrative of forgiveness amidst tragedy.

The Second Incident: Martha McKay's Murder

In March 2020, tragedy struck Horseshoe Lake once more. The Snowden House's silent alarm was triggered, leading deputies to respond swiftly. Upon arrival, they found Martha McKay brutally murdered, stabbed and bludgeoned multiple times. The suspect fled but was eventually found dead in the lake, identified as Travis Lewis.

Jimmie Whisman at [66:58]:
"They found him in the lake. He had cocaine and meth in his system."

Travis's death by drowning ended the hunt for the new suspect but left lingering questions about his true involvement.

James Pietragallo at [69:11]:
"He had cocaine and meth in his system. He got all methed up to go steal some shit."

Community Impact and Conclusion

The double murder and subsequent second tragedy deeply affected Horseshoe Lake, instilling fear and distrust within the community. Martha McKay's unwavering forgiveness contrasted sharply with the heinous acts, highlighting themes of redemption and the complexities of justice in a small town.

James Pietragallo at [73:18]:
"Maybe you can forgive, but maybe not. I don't know."

The episode underscores the fragility of small-town communities when faced with unimaginable loss and the enduring quest for truth and closure.

Notable Quotes

• James Pietragallo at [07:34]:
  "It's a really small town, way more people than animals, probably livestock outnumbered the residents."

• Martha McKay at [16:25]:
  "Growing up on Horseshoe Lake had been just wonderful. I felt like royalty with the big house and servants."

• Jimmie Whisman at [23:53]:
  "Inside the burning house, they found both Sally McKay and Lee Baker shot to death."

• Jimmie Whisman at [42:04]:
  "I was there to rob the house. My friend killed them and tried to burn the house down."

• Jimmie Whisman at [66:58]:
  "They found him in the lake. He had cocaine and meth in his system."

• James Pietragallo at [73:18]:
  "Maybe you can forgive, but maybe not. I don't know."

Final Thoughts

Episode #548 of Small Town Murder offers a gripping exploration of crime, forgiveness, and the enduring scars left on a small community. James and Jimmie's engaging storytelling, combined with their ability to balance serious content with humor, provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the tragic events in Horseshoe Lake, Arkansas.

For more gripping investigations and dark tales, subscribe to Small Town Murder on your favorite podcast platform and follow them on Instagram @smalltownmurder and Facebook @SmalltownPod.