Podcast Summary: Small Town Murder – "Murder Mystery Gone Wild - Payson, Utah"

Introduction

In the episode titled "Murder Mystery Gone Wild - Payson, Utah," hosts James Pietragallo and Jimmie Whisman delve into the perplexing and tragic murder of Dr. K. Mortensen in Payson, Utah. Blending meticulous research with their signature comedic flair, the duo unravels a case fraught with twists, wrongful accusations, and eventual resolution.

1. Background of Payson, Utah

Payson, Utah, a town in Utah County with a population of approximately 21,093, serves as the setting for this intricate murder mystery. Known for its strong Mormon community (93.3% of residents), low unemployment rates, and a median household income slightly above the national average, Payson presents a façade of tranquility and safety.

• Historical Context: Founded in 1850 by Edward Pace Jr. and other settlers, Payson evolved from its original name, Petite Neat Creek, into a burgeoning small town. The establishment of industries like the Utah Idaho Sugar Company and events such as the Onion Days Festival highlight the town's agricultural roots and community spirit.

James Pietragallo [05:03]: "The settlement was originally named Petite Neat Creek, after which Chief Petit Neat was named."

2. Dr. K. Mortensen: The Victim

Dr. K. Mortensen, born July 6, 1939, in Ephraim, Utah, was a respected metallurgy professor at Brigham Young University (BYU). A dedicated family man, Mortensen was known for his academic prowess, frugal lifestyle, and extensive prepping habits, including the accumulation of firearms and the construction of a fortified underground bunker.

• Personal Life: Married to Hermona Anderson, Mortensen had four children. Following his divorce from Hermona, he remarried Pamela Ann, who softened some of his more extreme prepping tendencies but did not alter his fundamental distrust of society.

Jimmy Wissman [12:23]: "This is Brigham Young's Zion. You don't get that in Saudi Arabia, for fuck's sake. That's... That's insane."

3. The Murder Incident

On November 16, 2009, tragedy struck when Dr. Mortensen was brutally murdered in his home. The initial 911 call came from his son, Roger Mortensen, who reported that intruders had invaded the house, tying up the family members and committing the heinous act.

• Description of the Crime Scene:
  • Mortensen was found hanging over the bathtub with his throat severely slashed and multiple stab wounds.
  • Evidence suggested a calculated attack, with specific weapons missing from various strategic locations in the home.
  • Unusual signs included seasoned meat on the stovetop, indicating the preparation of a meal amidst the chaos.

James Pietragallo [66:55]: "There's certainly been a scene. They go upstairs to find that Kay's body is indeed in the bathroom, hanging over the edge of the tub with his throat slashed."

4. Initial Investigation and Wrongful Accusations

Given Mortensen's well-known prepping habits and amassed firearms, suspicion initially fell on his son, Roger, and Roger's wife, Pam. Their financial struggles and high stakes as potential heirs to Mortensen's estate made them prime suspects.

• Arrest of Roger and Pam:
  • Inconsistencies: Roger and Pam's accounts of the night of the murder contained numerous inconsistencies, particularly regarding the number and description of the intruders.
  • Behavior: Their subdued demeanor and failed polygraph tests further fueled suspicions.
  • Charges: They faced first-degree murder and obstruction of justice charges but maintained their innocence, claiming to have been victims themselves.

James Pietragallo [89:57]: "And then the killer told a prayer... so they said, you were telling the truth. They know who you are. Shit. With the truck driver."

5. Revelation of the Real Culprits

The breakthrough in the case came from an anonymous tip linking the murder to Martin Bond and Ben Reddick, acquaintances of the Mortensen family.

• Martin Bond and Ben Reddick:
  • Both 23 years old with no prior criminal history.
  • Bond, a childhood friend, admitted involvement through jail notes and later testimony, implicating Reddick as the actual perpetrator.
  • Collaboration: They orchestrated the robbery, forcibly tying up the family and murdering Dr. Mortensen to steal his firearms.

Jimmy Wissman [116:09]: "Imagine telling a story that's true and nobody believes you."

6. Trial and Convictions

• Grand Jury Proceedings:

  • Despite initial wrongful accusations, the grand jury was presented with evidence pointing to Bond and Reddick.
  • Bond's trial revealed he acted under duress, claiming Reddick forced him to commit the murder.

• Outcomes:

  • Martin Bond: Convicted of aggravated murder, kidnapping, burglary, and robbery. Received life without the possibility of parole.
  • Ben Reddick: Pleaded guilty to aggravated murder and kidnapping in exchange for a reduced sentence. Received 25 years to life.

James Pietragallo [115:57]: "They said, you got anything to say for yourself, Marty? Sure do. He said, if I really was the monster everyone thinks I am, then Roger and Pam wouldn't be sitting here today."

7. Aftermath and Legal Battles

Following their exoneration, Roger and Pam Mortensen faced immense social ostracization and legal hurdles, including unsuccessful lawsuits against law enforcement for wrongful accusations. The ruling underscored flaws in the grand jury system, particularly the inability for defendants to present their side during proceedings.

Jimmy Wissman [126:27]: "You're allowed to lie because you're a cop. That's the fucking stupidest thing I've ever heard."

8. Media Coverage and Public Perception

The case garnered significant media attention, featuring on shows like Dateline and Trace of Evil. Public opinion was deeply divided, with many initially condemning Roger and Pam before embracing the truth of their innocence.

James Pietragallo [160:30]: "Check this wild ass shit out. So more recently it was covered in an episode of Trace of Evil titled the Perplexing Case of K. Mortensen, which aired in 2021."

Conclusion

The murder of Dr. K. Mortensen in Payson, Utah, is a harrowing tale of misunderstanding, wrongful accusation, and ultimate justice. Hosts James Pietragallo and Jimmie Whisman effectively highlight the complexities of the case, emphasizing the critical role of thorough investigation and the perils of initial biases. This episode serves as a stark reminder of the importance of seeking the full truth before passing judgment.

Notable Quotes

• James Pietragallo [05:03]: "The settlement was originally named Petite Neat Creek, after which Chief Petit Neat was named."
• Jimmy Wissman [12:23]: "This is Brigham Young's Zion. You don't get that in Saudi Arabia, for fuck's sake. That's... That's insane."
• James Pietragallo [66:55]: "There's certainly been a scene. They go upstairs to find that Kay's body is indeed in the bathroom, hanging over the edge of the tub with his throat slashed."
• Jimmy Wissman [116:09]: "Imagine telling a story that's true and nobody believes you."
• James Pietragallo [89:57]: "And then the killer told a prayer... so they said, you were telling the truth. They know who you are. Shit. With the truck driver."
• James Pietragallo [115:57]: "They said, you got anything to say for yourself, Marty? Sure do. He said, if I really was the monster everyone thinks I am, then Roger and Pam wouldn't be sitting here today."
• Jimmy Wissman [126:27]: "You're allowed to lie because you're a cop. That's the fucking stupidest thing I've ever heard."
• James Pietragallo [160:30]: "Check this wild ass shit out. So more recently it was covered in an episode of Trace of Evil titled the Perplexing Case of K. Mortensen, which aired in 2021."

Final Thoughts

"Murder Mystery Gone Wild - Payson, Utah" is a compelling episode that not only narrates a tragic event but also critiques systemic issues within the justice system. Through engaging storytelling and sharp humor, James and Jimmy invite listeners to reflect on the importance of due process and the human cost of miscarried justice.