True Crime Garage: "Lane Bryant Murders 2026 /// Part 2"

Release Date: January 14, 2026
Hosts: Nic & The Captain
Topic: The 2008 Lane Bryant Murders, Tinley Park, Illinois (Deep Dive, Ongoing Unsolved Case)

Episode Overview

This episode is the second part in Nic and The Captain’s thorough exploration of the Lane Bryant murders, the 2008 mass murder at a women’s clothing store in Tinley Park, Illinois, where five women were killed, and one survived. The hosts revisit previously discussed material and integrate new insights, focusing on suspect profiling, forensic details, investigative missteps, and the ongoing challenges in solving the case. Rich in detail and speculation, the conversation blends seasoned true crime analysis with the show's trademark candidness and banter.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Reviewing the Known Details

[03:02 - 07:50]

Recap: Five women murdered, one survived; the suspect remains unidentified despite an eyewitness's solid description.
Unique Suspect Description:
- Black male, single braid on the right cheek with four light green beads.
- Hosts shocked that such a unique hair feature ("Not only should his friends and family… recognize this hair, but… someone helped him do [it]." – Captain, 05:15) has not led to a tip strong enough to solve the case.
- Debate on whether hairstyle was self-done or required an accomplice.
- The sketch and later 3D composite images are unusually lifelike and haunting, but still didn’t crack the case.

2. Suspect's Gender and Height Clarity

[07:02 - 12:15]

Internet speculation once suggested the killer could be female, but all law enforcement and eyewitness reports confirm the perpetrator is male.
Suspect’s height reported inconsistently: initially 5’8”–5’10”, later 6’0”–6’2”; hosts urge listeners not to dismiss potential suspects based on slight variances.
Weapon used was a Smith & Wesson .40 cal; killer took between $200–$300, possibly more, from store, customers, and employees.

3. The Duct Tape & Preparation

[12:15 - 13:51]

Duct tape possibly brought by suspect; debate over whether more tools (like tape) were improvised on-site or planned.
Killer wore a waist-length dark jacket, possibly with a roll of duct tape in the pocket, and black jeans with embroidered back pockets ("cursive G" design).
He did not attempt to conceal identity with a mask but may have worn a ball cap or other head covering initially, removed at some point during crime.

4. Criminal Profiling

[13:51 - 18:34]

Two FBI profilers, Greg McCrary and Van Zant, believe:
- The killer had likely been incarcerated and had “vowed never to go back to prison,” possibly prompting the mass killing to eliminate witnesses.
- He possibly felt recognized or feared being identified.
- He would kill again, even loved ones, rather than risk arrest.
- The emotionless, execution-style shooting, for a small sum, is deeply chilling and unusual.
Hosts partially challenge the “targeted victim” theory: based on store activity, random customer arrivals, and hostage sequence, targeting seems unlikely unless it was an employee.

Quote:

"He was in the store prior to any of the customers arriving… so that would tell me, if a person was targeted, it had to be one of those employees… But the surviving employee doesn’t tell us who this man’s name is." – Nic, 15:07

5. Theories on Motive and Method

[18:34 - 25:02]

Potential for drug-related desperation dismissed by hosts as unlikely, considering suspect’s composure and planning.
Robbery extended to both store and customers; likened to the diner scene in "Pulp Fiction."
The delivery ruse was well executed (with fake paperwork and coffee cup as props), suggesting intimate knowledge of store business or routines.
The store opened at 10am; killer entered shortly after, indicating prior knowledge and calculated timing.

6. DNA Evidence and Missed Investigative Opportunities

[25:49 - 33:12]

Various rumors about DNA sources:
- Blood under a victim’s fingernails from fighting back.
- A dropped coffee cup or ball cap potentially containing the killer’s DNA.
- DNA possibly left on duct tape if killer tore it with his teeth.
Frustration: Police have been secretive—if items like the coffee cup, ball cap, or delivery paperwork are real, why not release pictures or descriptions to the public?
Commentary on the lack of surveillance at Lane Bryant versus what could’ve been found at surrounding stores or gas stations.

Quote:

“You want information? Give us some information. You want tips? Give us the tips.” – Nic, 34:34

7. The Hairstyle and Beads: Clues or Red Herrings?

[35:04 - 38:27]

Discussed possible cultural or symbolic significance of single braid with green beads: representations of growth, unity, or simply a matter of personal style.
Reference to gangs using colors/symbols (e.g., Chicago Bulls clothing) but no direct evidence linking this killer’s beads to gang affiliation.
Hosts skeptical that the beads carried spiritual meaning—could be nothing or just an attempt at intimidation.

8. The Vehicles: Another Overlooked Avenue?

[38:27 - 41:02]

America’s Most Wanted, using NASA video enhancement, spotted two suspicious vehicles parked in front of the store at the time of the killings—both left in the window believed to match the killer's escape.
Vehicles may have held either witnesses or been part of the escape plan, but nobody has come forward.

9. Critique of Investigation & Potential Inside Knowledge

[41:02 - 53:14]

Noted delays in involving the FBI officially (not until six months post-crime).
Read a listener letter from a former manager at Fashion Bug (Lane Bryant’s sister company) explaining store delivery and banking procedures—suggests perpetrator likely had inside knowledge or experience (e.g., delivery driver or ex-employee, or tipped off by same).
Deposits generally kept for morning drop-offs, meaning large amounts of cash could be present at opening, contrary to official company statements claiming otherwise.

Quote:

“Based on my firsthand knowledge of company procedures, I have long believed the Lane Bryant murders may have involved someone with inside knowledge of store operations.” – Listener Letter, 42:17

10. The Challenge of DNA and Jurisdiction

[53:14 - 56:35]

Illinois law has required DNA collection from felons since 2002, but a reported gap left ~2,000 former inmates escaping DNA cataloging by release before law implementation.
If killer was from out-of-state (Indiana is only 25 minutes away), their own DNA database was not up-to-date until 2018/19, so suspect might never have been collected or compared.

Quote:

“If the general public’s idea is right, that this guy was a violent offender and the profilers were right… what if he’s in that batch of 2,000 [un-collected DNA]?” – Nic, 55:05

11. Importance of Revisiting Cold Cases

[56:42 - 58:05]

Emphasized value in re-examining cases: “We feel like time has passed since we covered it last. It’s important to revisit these cases. It’s important to continue to shine light on these cases that aren’t solved.” – Captain

12. Upcoming Documentary & Call to Action

[58:05 - End]

Upcoming documentary: "Who Killed These Women? The Tinley Park 5" (Charlie Min, Feb 2026).
Hopes that media attention reignites investigation and public engagement.
$100,000 reward for information leading to an arrest; safety warnings for tipsters due to killer’s dangerousness.
Tip line: 708-444-5394 and email: lanebryant.tipline@tinleypark.org

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Unique Hairstyle: “This is a hairstyle that somebody helped him do. Obviously that individual would definitely know who this person was.” – Captain, 05:15
On Targeting Theory: “I put him targeting one of these women very close to zero.” – Nic, 15:07
On Evidence Secrecy: “Release a picture of the hat. Release a picture of the coffee cup. Release a picture of the paperwork… You want information? Give us some information.” – Nic, 34:34
Cultural/Braid/Theory: “I don’t see somebody going, ‘I’m braiding my hair, put green in there because of my rebirth,’ and by the way, I’m going to Lane Bryant and execute a bunch of women.” – Captain, 38:27
Listener Tip – Inside Knowledge: “Based on my firsthand knowledge of company procedures, I’ve long believed the Lane Bryant murders may have involved someone with inside knowledge of store operations.” – Listener Letter, 42:17
On Revisiting Cases: “It’s important to revisit these cases. It’s important to continue to shine light on these cases that aren’t solved. We have five individuals that were executed and one that was almost executed. This case needs to be solved.” – Captain, 56:42

Timestamps for Important Segments

03:02 – Case re-introduction, suspect description
07:02 – Gender/height clarification/debate
13:51 – FBI criminal profile
15:07 – Motive speculation and sequence analysis
25:49 – DNA evidence discussion
30:26 – Critique of leaked/withheld evidence
38:27 – Significance of vehicles
42:17 – Listener letter (inside knowledge)
53:14 – DNA law and cross-state logic
58:05 – Upcoming documentary, reward, and tip info

True Crime Garage: "Lane Bryant Murders 2026 /// Part 2"

Release Date: January 14, 2026
Hosts: Nic & The Captain
Topic: The 2008 Lane Bryant Murders, Tinley Park, Illinois (Deep Dive, Ongoing Unsolved Case)

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Reviewing the Known Details

[03:02 - 07:50]

Recap: Five women murdered, one survived; the suspect remains unidentified despite an eyewitness's solid description.
Unique Suspect Description:
- Black male, single braid on the right cheek with four light green beads.
- Hosts shocked that such a unique hair feature ("Not only should his friends and family… recognize this hair, but… someone helped him do [it]." – Captain, 05:15) has not led to a tip strong enough to solve the case.
- Debate on whether hairstyle was self-done or required an accomplice.
- The sketch and later 3D composite images are unusually lifelike and haunting, but still didn’t crack the case.

2. Suspect's Gender and Height Clarity

[07:02 - 12:15]

Internet speculation once suggested the killer could be female, but all law enforcement and eyewitness reports confirm the perpetrator is male.
Suspect’s height reported inconsistently: initially 5’8”–5’10”, later 6’0”–6’2”; hosts urge listeners not to dismiss potential suspects based on slight variances.
Weapon used was a Smith & Wesson .40 cal; killer took between $200–$300, possibly more, from store, customers, and employees.

3. The Duct Tape & Preparation

[12:15 - 13:51]

Duct tape possibly brought by suspect; debate over whether more tools (like tape) were improvised on-site or planned.
Killer wore a waist-length dark jacket, possibly with a roll of duct tape in the pocket, and black jeans with embroidered back pockets ("cursive G" design).
He did not attempt to conceal identity with a mask but may have worn a ball cap or other head covering initially, removed at some point during crime.

4. Criminal Profiling

[13:51 - 18:34]

Two FBI profilers, Greg McCrary and Van Zant, believe:
- The killer had likely been incarcerated and had “vowed never to go back to prison,” possibly prompting the mass killing to eliminate witnesses.
- He possibly felt recognized or feared being identified.
- He would kill again, even loved ones, rather than risk arrest.
- The emotionless, execution-style shooting, for a small sum, is deeply chilling and unusual.
Hosts partially challenge the “targeted victim” theory: based on store activity, random customer arrivals, and hostage sequence, targeting seems unlikely unless it was an employee.

Quote:

"He was in the store prior to any of the customers arriving… so that would tell me, if a person was targeted, it had to be one of those employees… But the surviving employee doesn’t tell us who this man’s name is." – Nic, 15:07

5. Theories on Motive and Method

[18:34 - 25:02]

Potential for drug-related desperation dismissed by hosts as unlikely, considering suspect’s composure and planning.
Robbery extended to both store and customers; likened to the diner scene in "Pulp Fiction."
The delivery ruse was well executed (with fake paperwork and coffee cup as props), suggesting intimate knowledge of store business or routines.
The store opened at 10am; killer entered shortly after, indicating prior knowledge and calculated timing.

6. DNA Evidence and Missed Investigative Opportunities

[25:49 - 33:12]

Various rumors about DNA sources:
- Blood under a victim’s fingernails from fighting back.
- A dropped coffee cup or ball cap potentially containing the killer’s DNA.
- DNA possibly left on duct tape if killer tore it with his teeth.
Frustration: Police have been secretive—if items like the coffee cup, ball cap, or delivery paperwork are real, why not release pictures or descriptions to the public?
Commentary on the lack of surveillance at Lane Bryant versus what could’ve been found at surrounding stores or gas stations.

Quote:

“You want information? Give us some information. You want tips? Give us the tips.” – Nic, 34:34

7. The Hairstyle and Beads: Clues or Red Herrings?

[35:04 - 38:27]

Discussed possible cultural or symbolic significance of single braid with green beads: representations of growth, unity, or simply a matter of personal style.
Reference to gangs using colors/symbols (e.g., Chicago Bulls clothing) but no direct evidence linking this killer’s beads to gang affiliation.
Hosts skeptical that the beads carried spiritual meaning—could be nothing or just an attempt at intimidation.

8. The Vehicles: Another Overlooked Avenue?

[38:27 - 41:02]

America’s Most Wanted, using NASA video enhancement, spotted two suspicious vehicles parked in front of the store at the time of the killings—both left in the window believed to match the killer's escape.
Vehicles may have held either witnesses or been part of the escape plan, but nobody has come forward.

9. Critique of Investigation & Potential Inside Knowledge

[41:02 - 53:14]

Noted delays in involving the FBI officially (not until six months post-crime).
Read a listener letter from a former manager at Fashion Bug (Lane Bryant’s sister company) explaining store delivery and banking procedures—suggests perpetrator likely had inside knowledge or experience (e.g., delivery driver or ex-employee, or tipped off by same).
Deposits generally kept for morning drop-offs, meaning large amounts of cash could be present at opening, contrary to official company statements claiming otherwise.

Quote:

“Based on my firsthand knowledge of company procedures, I have long believed the Lane Bryant murders may have involved someone with inside knowledge of store operations.” – Listener Letter, 42:17

10. The Challenge of DNA and Jurisdiction

[53:14 - 56:35]

Illinois law has required DNA collection from felons since 2002, but a reported gap left ~2,000 former inmates escaping DNA cataloging by release before law implementation.
If killer was from out-of-state (Indiana is only 25 minutes away), their own DNA database was not up-to-date until 2018/19, so suspect might never have been collected or compared.

Quote:

“If the general public’s idea is right, that this guy was a violent offender and the profilers were right… what if he’s in that batch of 2,000 [un-collected DNA]?” – Nic, 55:05

11. Importance of Revisiting Cold Cases

[56:42 - 58:05]

Emphasized value in re-examining cases: “We feel like time has passed since we covered it last. It’s important to revisit these cases. It’s important to continue to shine light on these cases that aren’t solved.” – Captain

12. Upcoming Documentary & Call to Action

[58:05 - End]

Upcoming documentary: "Who Killed These Women? The Tinley Park 5" (Charlie Min, Feb 2026).
Hopes that media attention reignites investigation and public engagement.
$100,000 reward for information leading to an arrest; safety warnings for tipsters due to killer’s dangerousness.
Tip line: 708-444-5394 and email: lanebryant.tipline@tinleypark.org

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Unique Hairstyle: “This is a hairstyle that somebody helped him do. Obviously that individual would definitely know who this person was.” – Captain, 05:15
On Targeting Theory: “I put him targeting one of these women very close to zero.” – Nic, 15:07
On Evidence Secrecy: “Release a picture of the hat. Release a picture of the coffee cup. Release a picture of the paperwork… You want information? Give us some information.” – Nic, 34:34
Cultural/Braid/Theory: “I don’t see somebody going, ‘I’m braiding my hair, put green in there because of my rebirth,’ and by the way, I’m going to Lane Bryant and execute a bunch of women.” – Captain, 38:27
Listener Tip – Inside Knowledge: “Based on my firsthand knowledge of company procedures, I’ve long believed the Lane Bryant murders may have involved someone with inside knowledge of store operations.” – Listener Letter, 42:17
On Revisiting Cases: “It’s important to revisit these cases. It’s important to continue to shine light on these cases that aren’t solved. We have five individuals that were executed and one that was almost executed. This case needs to be solved.” – Captain, 56:42

Timestamps for Important Segments

03:02 – Case re-introduction, suspect description
07:02 – Gender/height clarification/debate
13:51 – FBI criminal profile
15:07 – Motive speculation and sequence analysis
25:49 – DNA evidence discussion
30:26 – Critique of leaked/withheld evidence
38:27 – Significance of vehicles
42:17 – Listener letter (inside knowledge)
53:14 – DNA law and cross-state logic
58:05 – Upcoming documentary, reward, and tip info

Lane Bryant Murders 2026 /// Part 2

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Summary

True Crime Garage: "Lane Bryant Murders 2026 /// Part 2"

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Reviewing the Known Details

2. Suspect's Gender and Height Clarity

3. The Duct Tape & Preparation

4. Criminal Profiling

5. Theories on Motive and Method

6. DNA Evidence and Missed Investigative Opportunities

7. The Hairstyle and Beads: Clues or Red Herrings?

8. The Vehicles: Another Overlooked Avenue?

9. Critique of Investigation & Potential Inside Knowledge

10. The Challenge of DNA and Jurisdiction

11. Importance of Revisiting Cold Cases

12. Upcoming Documentary & Call to Action

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Timestamps for Important Segments

Further Reading & Final Notes

Summary

True Crime Garage: "Lane Bryant Murders 2026 /// Part 2"

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Reviewing the Known Details

2. Suspect's Gender and Height Clarity

3. The Duct Tape & Preparation

4. Criminal Profiling

5. Theories on Motive and Method

6. DNA Evidence and Missed Investigative Opportunities

7. The Hairstyle and Beads: Clues or Red Herrings?

8. The Vehicles: Another Overlooked Avenue?

9. Critique of Investigation & Potential Inside Knowledge

10. The Challenge of DNA and Jurisdiction

11. Importance of Revisiting Cold Cases

12. Upcoming Documentary & Call to Action

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Timestamps for Important Segments

Further Reading & Final Notes