The Murder That Shook a Family—and the Son Who Solved It
Podcast: Wild Boys
Host: Sam Mullins
Episode Release Date: March 12, 2025
Produced by: Campside Media / Sony Music Entertainment
Introduction to the Case
In the gripping episode titled "The Murder That Shook a Family—and the Son Who Solved It," host Sam Mullins delves deep into the mysterious disappearance of Noreen Boyle in Mansfield, Ohio, in 1990. The story centers around her 12-year-old son, Collier Boyle, whose relentless pursuit to uncover the truth about his mother's disappearance leads him to an unlikely partnership with Lieutenant Dave Messmore of the Mansfield Police Department.
Key Individuals
- Collier Landry Boyle: A precocious and determined 12-year-old boy whose mother, Noreen, goes missing.
- Lieutenant Dave Messmore: A middle-aged detective with a tough exterior and a reputation for going against the grain to solve cases.
- Noreen Boyle: The missing mother whose disappearance sets off the chain of events.
- Jack Boyle: Noreen's husband, a prominent local doctor.
The Disappearance of Noreen Boyle
The story begins on a quiet New Year's Day in 1990. Noreen Boyle, a 44-year-old woman, is reported missing. Initially, her disappearance doesn't garner much attention, as the Mansfield Police Department is overwhelmed with typical holiday incidents such as bar brawls and disorderly conduct. Lieutenant Dave Messmore, known for his methodical and unassuming nature, takes on the case reluctantly.
Lieutenant Dave Messmore [03:07]: "She was listed as a missing person by some of the friends of hers. Not family, but that's not unusual."
Messmore doesn't prioritize the case, assuming Noreen might have simply run away due to marital issues, a common assumption for missing persons without immediate red flags.
Collier Boyle's Determination
Unlike the average 12-year-old, Collier Boyle possesses a sharp intellect and unwavering determination. When his mother disappears, he refuses to accept that she left without a trace. Instead, Collier takes it upon himself to find her, showcasing remarkable maturity and resilience.
Collier Boyle [00:05]: "Where's my mother? She would never ever leave her children."
Collier's distress is palpable as he recounts the night his mother vanished, highlighting the turmoil and fear he experienced during those initial moments.
Detective Dave Messmore's Involvement
Lieutenant Messmore, despite his initial skepticism, begins to suspect that Noreen's disappearance might be more sinister than a typical runaway case. His encounter with Collier becomes a pivotal moment in the investigation.
Lieutenant Dave Messmore [08:02]: "I could just tell when I said to Dave, my mother would never leave me, something has happened to her. He just looked at me like he could tell that I was serious."
Messmore observes Collier's demeanor and realizes that the boy knows more than he's letting on. This interaction compels Messmore to reassess the case, leading him to collaborate with the boy in uncovering the truth.
Interaction Between Collier and Messmore
The initial meeting between Collier and Messmore is fraught with tension and unspoken understanding. Collier's composed yet intense behavior catches Messmore off guard, prompting him to take the case more seriously.
Collier Boyle [07:48]: "My mother would never leave without me or without me knowing where she was going."
Lieutenant Dave Messmore [07:53]: "Something happened. And I said, okay, I'll work on that."
Their conversation underscores the profound bond between Collier and his mother and hints at underlying family secrets that may have contributed to Noreen's disappearance.
Uncovering Family Secrets
As the investigation progresses, Collier and Messmore uncover a series of unsettling family secrets. Each revelation brings them closer to understanding what truly happened to Noreen Boyle. The episode intricately weaves through past events, family dynamics, and the psychological complexities that both Collier and Messmore face.
Narrator [01:51]: "Collier Landry Boyle wasn't your average 12 year old. He was very smart. He was very determined."
Through meticulous detective work and the boy's unwavering resolve, hidden motives and long-buried truths come to light, painting a comprehensive picture of the circumstances surrounding Noreen's disappearance.
Conclusion and Insights
"The Murder That Shook a Family—and the Son Who Solved It" is a compelling exploration of family bonds, resilience, and the pursuit of truth. Collier Boyle's determination to find his mother, combined with Lieutenant Messmore's seasoned investigative skills, creates a powerful narrative that underscores the lengths to which one will go to uncover the truth.
This episode not only sheds light on a missing person's case but also delves into the psychological and emotional impacts such an event has on a young boy and a dedicated detective. It serves as a testament to the human spirit's capacity to seek justice and closure, no matter the obstacles.
Notable Quotes
- Collier Boyle [00:05]: "Where's my mother? She would never ever leave her children."
- Lieutenant Dave Messmore [03:07]: "She was listed as a missing person by some of the friends of hers. Not family, but that's not unusual."
- Collier Boyle [00:09]: "Where's my mother? She would never ever leave her children."
- Lieutenant Dave Messmore [08:02]: "I could just tell when I said to Dave, my mother would never leave me, something has happened to her. He just looked at me like he could tell that I was serious."
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