Podcast Summary: Small Town Murder – "Jeepers Creepers Murder - Coldwater, Michigan"

Introduction

In the episode titled "Jeepers Creepers Murder - Coldwater, Michigan," released on July 18, 2025, hosts James Pietragallo (A) and Jimmy Whisman (B) delve into a harrowing true crime story set in the small town of Coldwater, Michigan. Balancing thorough research with their signature comedic flair, James and Jimmy explore the dynamics of a seemingly tranquil community unraveling under the shadow of a tragic murder.

Setting the Scene: Coldwater, Michigan [00:22 - 03:50]

Coldwater, located in Branch County, Michigan, is portrayed as a modestly sized town with a population of approximately 13,764. The median household income stands significantly below the national average at $45,021, and the median home cost is $178,700, about half of the national figure. The town's motto, "Live, Work, Play," epitomizes its attempt to foster a welcoming atmosphere, although opinions on its effectiveness vary.

Notable Quote:
A [05:00]: "When a town just doesn't try very hard for a motto, you get 'Live, Work, Play.' That's everything."

Profiles: Marilyn Lee McClanahan and Dennis Henry Depew [09:00 - 16:00]

The narrative centers on Marilyn Lee McClanahan, born January 24, 1941, in Detroit, and her husband, Dennis Henry Depew, born June 13, 1943, in Sturgis, Michigan. Marilyn is depicted as a compassionate high school guidance counselor with advanced degrees from Michigan State University and Wayne State University. Her commitment to community and education contrasts sharply with Dennis, a quiet, detail-oriented individual who works as a property tax specialist for Michigan's Department of Treasury.

Notable Quotes:
A [10:25]: "Marilyn is doing some education, and she wants to work with kids in some way."
B [13:30]: "Person who doesn't know shit about me."

The Marriage: From Bliss to Turmoil [16:00 - 24:00]

Marilyn and Dennis marry and have three children: Jennifer (1974), Julie (1976), and Scott (1982). Initially, their life seems idyllic, but cracks begin to emerge as Dennis becomes increasingly controlling and possessive. Marilyn's active social life and dedication to her work clash with Dennis's growing bitterness and withdrawal, leading to constant tension within the household.

Notable Quotes:
A [20:09]: "He would make, you know, he'd say sometimes that she's spending too much time at work or too much time."
B [23:17]: "Oh, boy."

The Murder: Unfolding on Easter [37:12 - 39:15]

The climax of the story occurs on April 15, 1990, Easter Sunday. Marilyn is preparing for a family meal when Dennis arrives to pick up their children. Tensions escalate when Julie refuses to go with him, leading Dennis to violently attack Marilyn by throwing her down the basement stairs and brutally assaulting her in front of their children. Dennis then attempts to take Marilyn to the hospital but instead drives away, leading to her eventual discovery dead along a deserted road.

Notable Quotes:
A [39:32]: "He threw her down the fucking stairs."
B [39:33]: "Oh, boy."

The Aftermath: Searching for Dennis [39:15 - 53:12]

Following the murder, Dennis disappears, leaving the community and authorities baffled. Despite extensive searches across Michigan and neighboring states, Dennis evades capture. He begins sending deranged letters blaming Marilyn and others for his actions, expressing no remorse and portraying himself as a victim. These letters contribute to the mystique and horror surrounding the case.

Notable Quotes:
A [54:18]: "He sent a total of 17 letters to various friends, family members, and acquaintances."
B [56:53]: "You're supposed to know that. It's your place, man."

The Letters and the Hunt [53:12 - 70:48]

Dennis's letters reveal his unstable mental state, filled with conspiracy theories and religious justifications for his crime. He claims that Marilyn manipulated the children and the legal system against him, leading him to a point of desperation. Despite these communications, Dennis remains elusive, ultimately leading to a multi-state manhunt.

In March 1991, Dennis is featured on an episode of "Unsolved Mysteries," which inadvertently aids in his identification. The episode prompts a high-speed chase across state lines, culminating in a fatal confrontation where Dennis dies by suicide after a violent pursuit by law enforcement.

Notable Quotes:
A [59:47]: "When they're treated unfairly and when there's little or nothing to lose."
B [60:30]: "Did he really?"
A [69:14]: "He died with his pistol in his hand, his thumb on the trigger, and $16,000 in his pocket."

Legacy: Connection to "Jeepers Creepers" [71:59 - 72:42]

The episode draws a parallel between this real-life case and the horror film "Jeepers Creepers," noting striking similarities in the opening scenes. Although the filmmakers have never acknowledged the connection, the resemblance adds a layer of cultural impact to the Coldwater murder case.

Notable Quote:
A [72:02]: "Apparently they said they've never acknowledged the connection, but the opening scenes of the film is the exact thing that Ray and Marie Thornton said on Unsolved Mysteries."

Reactions and Reflections [73:57 - End]

The hosts reflect on the bizarre and tragic nature of the case, emphasizing the suddenness of Marilyn's murder and Dennis's subsequent downfall. They highlight the lasting trauma experienced by the family and the community, underscoring the episode's grim narrative.

Notable Quotes:
A [72:43]: "What a day that is."
B [73:57]: "Bye."

Conclusion

"Jeepers Creepers Murder - Coldwater, Michigan" offers a compelling exploration of a dark chapter in a small town's history. Through meticulous storytelling and candid commentary, James Pietragallo and Jimmy Whisman shed light on the complexities of marital discord, mental instability, and the ripple effects of violence on a community. This episode serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of seemingly peaceful lives and the devastating impact of unchecked anger and despair.

Note: This summary excludes promotional segments and advertisements interspersed throughout the episode, focusing solely on the substantive content related to the murder case.