Podcast Summary: Small Town Murder Episode #564 - "First Family Of Murder & Pecans - San Saba, Texas"
Introduction
In episode #564 of Small Town Murder, hosts James Pietragallo and Jimmy Whisman delve into the intricate and tragic history of the Harkey family in San Saba, Texas. This episode unpacks the dynamics of a small town pecan farming community, unraveling a web of greed, family tension, and ultimately, murder. Through in-depth research and the hosts' signature comedic flair, the episode paints a vivid picture of how a once-thriving family empire descended into darkness.
Setting the Scene: San Saba, Texas
San Saba, Texas, proudly claims the title of the "Pecan Capital of the World," producing up to 5 million pounds of pecans annually. Despite its agricultural prosperity, the town's population has dwindled to just over 3,000 residents, with median household incomes significantly lower than the national average. The Harkey family, long-time pecan farmers, are central to this narrative.
“Middle of God damn nowhere is the best way to describe this.” – [06:03] James Pietragallo
The Harkey Family Legacy
The Harkey family's roots trace back to the mid-19th century when Riley and Israel Harkey first settled in San Saba. Over generations, they expanded their pecan orchards, establishing a prosperous farming business. By the 20th century, Olga Brian Harkey had planted the first orchard, setting the stage for future growth. Riley Harkey, Olga's son, continued the family tradition, planting additional trees and solidifying the family's status in the community.
“They were one of the first families to settle into the area before pecans were even in industry.” – [19:44] James Pietragallo
Marital Turmoil and Family Tensions
Riley Harkey's personal life was fraught with challenges. After his first wife, Joan, left him and their children for Nevada, Riley married Bonnie Sawyer Compton. Bonnie, a divorced telephone operator with her own daughter, Connie, moved into the Harkey household, intertwining two families under one roof. However, the marriage was tumultuous from the start.
Bonnie's immersion into town life contrasted sharply with Riley's strained relationship with her stepchildren. The boys, John and Bruce Harkey, resented Bonnie, leading to ongoing familial conflicts. Bruce, in particular, developed a deep-seated grudge against Bonnie, blaming her for personal tragedies, including the death of his son, Eric.
“He said, ‘I just wish the old bitch was dead.’ I wish that old bitch would die already.” – [75:35] Jimmy Whisman
The Road to Murder
The Harkey family's prosperity attracted unwanted attention, particularly from their neighbor, actor Tommy Lee Jones, who sought to purchase additional land. Disagreements over property rights and water rights heightened tensions within the family. Bruce Harkey's frustration brewed over control of the orchards, leading him to plot Bonnie's demise to secure his inheritance.
In March 2012, the situation reached a boiling point. Bonnie Harkey, dealing with dementia and an aortic aneurysm, became the target of Bruce's lethal plan. Bruce enlisted his step-grandson, Carl Presley, a methamphetamine addict with a criminal record, to carry out the murder.
“Bruce tells me, how is it if I'm the mastermind, that I established an alibi before I plan the crime.” – [74:31] James Pietragallo
The Murder
On March 25, 2012, after a typical Sunday routine, Bonnie was found dead under suspicious circumstances. Carl Presley, under Bruce's coercion, confessed to suffocating Bonnie in her home. The plan involved smothering her with a pillow while manipulating the family members to create distractions and cover up their involvement.
“I just couldn’t do it anymore.” – [59:59] Carl Presley
Investigation and Arrests
The investigation swiftly implicated Bruce and Carl. Testimonies from Carl, Lillian King (Carl's girlfriend), and inmates at their detention facility linked Bruce to the murder plot. Despite Bruce's attempts to deny involvement, including claiming innocence and attacking his own alibi, the evidence was overwhelming.
“Life without parole for Bruce.” – [72:27] Jimmy Whisman
Trial and Sentencing
The trial concluded with a guilty verdict for Bruce Harkey, receiving life without parole. Carl Presley and Lillian King were also sentenced to long prison terms. The Harkey family's story became a cautionary tale of how greed and unresolved family conflicts can lead to tragic outcomes.
“Bruce is housed at the James V. Allred unit in Wichita Falls, Texas. Carl and Bruce in prison.” – [74:31] James Pietragallo
Conclusion: A Town Forever Changed
San Saba, once a thriving pecan farming community, remains scarred by the Harkey family's downfall. The orchards that symbolized prosperity now stand as reminders of the family's internal strife and the deadly consequences of unchecked ambition. The episode underscores the fragility of small-town harmony and the devastating impact of familial discord.
“We're just trying to figure out who Tommy Lee Jones plays in the movie if he doesn't play himself.” – [69:45] Jimmy Whisman
Notable Quotes
- “Middle of God damn nowhere is the best way to describe this.” – James Pietragallo [06:03]
- “I just wish the old bitch was dead.” – Bruce Harkey [75:35]
- “Life without parole for Bruce.” – Jimmy Whisman [72:27]
- “We're just trying to figure out who Tommy Lee Jones plays in the movie if he doesn't play himself.” – Jimmy Whisman [69:45]
Final Thoughts
Episode #564 of Small Town Murder masterfully intertwines humor with a gripping true-crime narrative, offering listeners a deep dive into the complexities of the Harkey family and their impact on San Saba, Texas. Through meticulous storytelling and engaging dialogue, James and Jimmy deliver a compelling account of how a family's legacy can be both a source of pride and a catalyst for tragedy.
For those intrigued by the intersection of small-town dynamics and dark family secrets, this episode is a must-listen, showcasing the essence of what makes Small Town Murder both entertaining and thought-provoking.