True Crime Obsessed Episode 438: Web of Death: Body of Evidence Release Date: June 26, 2025
Introduction
In this gripping episode of True Crime Obsessed, hosts Patrick Hines and Jillian Panzavalli delve deep into a complex and haunting true crime case titled "Web of Death: Body of Evidence." This episode intertwines meticulous investigation, personal dedication, and the relentless pursuit of justice, highlighting the significant role of amateur sleuths in solving cold cases.
Case Overview
The episode centers around the mysterious discovery of a skull encased in a bucket of cement at a truck stop in Kearney, Missouri, on August 28, 2001 (09:10). Initially reported by Susan Smith as a kidnapping incident involving her two sons, Michael and Alex, the case took a dark turn when Susan was arrested and ultimately convicted for the murder of her own children, falsely blaming a black man for the heinous crime.
Patrick Hines [09:10]: "A skull was found in a bucket of cement in Kearney, Missouri. It is as creepy and ghoulish as it sounds."
This frightening discovery raised suspicions, leading Ellen Lynch, an amateur internet sleuth and director of the Doe Network, to take a personal interest in identifying the remains and uncovering the truth behind Greg May's disappearance.
Ellen Lynch and the Doe Network
Ellen Lynch's journey begins with the devastation caused by her cousin's tragic loss, inspiring her to become an internet sleuth. The Doe Network, where Ellen serves as director, is a crucial platform used primarily by volunteers to match missing persons with unidentified remains.
Ellen Lynch [02:09]: "I feel that nobody helps these souls that are lost out there. And somebody's got to do it. Why can't that somebody be me?"
Ellen's dedication to the case is evident as she navigates through numerous websites and records, meticulously piecing together clues to identify the skeletal remains. Her persistence leads her to a critical breakthrough in March 2005, when a positive match is confirmed.
Ellen Lynch [36:11]: "The blood was determined to be Gregory May's."
Community and Key Individuals
The narrative introduces several pivotal characters who play significant roles in the unfolding of the case:
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Greg May: A well-respected tattoo artist and antique collector whose disappearance triggers the investigation. Greg was known for his generosity, allowing his associate Moose to crash in his basement and teaching him the art of tattooing.
Patrick Hines [14:18]: "Greg is such a character. He goes to the library every day and reads the Wall Street Journal."
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Shannon May: Greg's daughter, whose unwavering commitment to finding her father drives much of the investigation's momentum. Her emotional journey underscores the personal toll of unresolved disappearances.
Jillian Panzavalli [26:00]: "This is her life."
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Moose (Doug de Bruyne): Greg's associate and the primary suspect in his murder. Initially portrayed as a friend, Moose's involvement becomes increasingly suspicious as evidence mounts against him.
Jillian Panzavalli [22:28]: "So Moose and the girlfriend are now in Arizona. And Greg's antiques are all over the place."
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Chief Dennis Schroeder: The dedicated Chief of Police in Bellevue, Iowa, who collaborates with Ellen and the DA to build a case against Moose and his accomplice.
Patrick Hines [22:10]: "Chief Dennis, you didn't make it up."
The Investigation
The investigation progresses through a series of meticulous steps:
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Discovery of the Skull: The finding of the skull in Missouri sets off alarm bells, leading to a deeper inquiry into Greg May's whereabouts.
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Ellen's Research: Utilizing the Doe Network, Ellen discovers that the skeletal remains belong to Gregory May, despite initial resistance from the network's gatekeepers regarding the match's validity.
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Uncovering the Truth: Through relentless research and collaboration with law enforcement, Ellen identifies Greg May, providing the necessary evidence to move forward with the prosecution.
Todd Matthews [26:05]: "Finally, in March 2005, three months after I had made the submission, area director from Iowa got back with me. She told me it was a positive match, and I just kind of melted."
Legal Proceedings and Resolution
With Ellen's identification of Gregory May's remains, the DA's office faces the challenge of prosecuting the case without a body. However, the newfound evidence significantly strengthens the prosecution's position.
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Arrest and Trial: Moose and his girlfriend are arrested for theft and later charged with Greg May's murder. The trial emphasizes the overwhelming circumstantial evidence linking them to the crime.
Jillian Panzavalli [43:22]: "This is horrendous. I don't think I've ever seen anything this extreme."
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Verdict: The court convicts Moose of first-degree murder, sentencing him to life without parole. Julie, Moose's girlfriend, receives a lesser sentence for perjury but retains her immunity deal, raising questions about legal loopholes in such cases.
Patrick Hines [49:04]: "The killer is found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to life without parole for the murder of Gregory May."
Ellen's Heroic Efforts
Ellen Lynch's unwavering commitment and passion are celebrated throughout the episode. Her efforts not only brought justice to Greg May but also highlighted the critical impact of volunteer internet sleuths in solving cold cases.
Ellen Lynch [51:36]: "Thank you for your efforts to match the remains of Gregory May in the murder investigation of the killer. And he thanks her and, like, all the volunteers out there in the world who are doing this."
The episode concludes by emphasizing the importance of community involvement and the potential for individuals to make a significant difference in the pursuit of truth and justice.
Conclusion
"Web of Death: Body of Evidence" serves as a powerful testament to the relentless pursuit of truth by dedicated individuals like Ellen Lynch. Through meticulous research, collaboration with law enforcement, and an unwavering commitment to justice, the episode underscores the profound impact that amateur sleuths can have in solving perplexing true crime cases. This episode not only provides closure for Greg May's family but also inspires listeners to recognize the potential within themselves to contribute to meaningful investigations.
Notable Quotes:
- Ellen Lynch [02:09]: "I feel that nobody helps these souls that are lost out there. And somebody's got to do it. Why can't that somebody be me?"
- Patrick Hines [09:10]: "A skull was found in a bucket of cement in Kearney, Missouri. It is as creepy and ghoulish as it sounds."
- Todd Matthews [26:05]: "Finally, in March 2005, three months after I had made the submission, area director from Iowa got back with me. She told me it was a positive match, and I just kind of melted."
- Jillian Panzavalli [43:22]: "This is horrendous. I don't think I've ever seen anything this extreme."
- Ellen Lynch [51:36]: "Thank you for your efforts to match the remains of Gregory May in the murder investigation of the killer. And he thanks her and, like, all the volunteers out there in the world who are doing this."
This detailed summary captures the essence of Episode 438, highlighting key discussions, insights, and conclusions drawn by the hosts. By focusing on the core true crime narrative and the heroic efforts of those involved, the summary provides a comprehensive and engaging overview for both loyal listeners and newcomers.