The Book of the Dead

Courtney Liso
  • 4.4 (46)
  • TRUE CRIME
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Hosted by Courtney Liso, The Book of the Dead is a true crime podcast that focuses on the victims of lesser-known crimes. Each episode presents a deep dive into a case from around the world, dissecting the details to tell the whole story of who each victim was, in addition to what happened to them. Formerly hosted by a mother-daughter team, the podcast has evolved with one host, taking the care necessary to ensure each victim is honored as they should be. Join Courtney every Wednesday at 12am EST for a new chapter in The Book of the Dead. 

  1. Chapter 132: Buried Beneath The Water: The Death of Olivia Lone Bear

    2D AGO

    Chapter 132: Buried Beneath The Water: The Death of Olivia Lone Bear

    In 2017, Olivia Lone Bear disappeared from the Fort Berthold Reservation in North Dakota. Months later, her truck was discovered submerged in a reservoir, but the answers never surfaced. As the investigation stalled, the story of a missing mother and the community that searched tirelessly for her became part of a larger, devastating pattern: the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women whose cases remain unsolved, yet refuse to be forgotten. If you have any information regarding the death of Olivia Lone Bear, you are urged to contact the FBI at: 1-800-CALL-FBI, or you can submit a tip at fbi.tips.gov Check out Adventures with Purpose  Connect with us on Social Media! You can find us at: Instagram: @bookofthedeadpod X: @bkofthedeadpod Facebook: The Book of the Dead Podcast TikTok: Bookofthedeadpod Or visit our website at www.botdpod.com Featuring a Promo for True Crime Connections: True Crime Connections is a survivor-led podcast where stories of abuse, trauma, and resilience are shared with raw honesty and purpose. Listen here Body found in submerged truck believed to be missing mother of five. (2018, August 3). NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/feature/missing-in-america/fbi-confident-body-found-submerged-truck-belongs-missing-mother-olivia-n897546BREAKING: New information in Olivia Lone Bear case. (2019, November 20). KX News. https://www.kxnet.com/news/local-news/breaking-new-information-in-olivia-lone-bear-case/Dura, J. (2018a, February 3). Searchers comb Bismarck for missing woman as volunteer effort expands. The Jamestown Sun, A4.Dura, J. (2018b, February 4). Bureau of Indian Affairs takes lead in Lone Bear Case. The Bismarck Tribune, 1.Dura, J., & Emerson, B. (2018a, December 28). Lone Bear case awaits answers. The Bismarck Tribune, A1.Dura, J., & Emerson, B. (2018b, December 29). 14 months after North Dakota woman was last seen alive, family and tribes await answers. The Dickinson Press, A3.Emerson, B. (2019, April 9). Stenejhem: Lone Bear report of death exempt from open records. The Jamestown Sun, B4.Emerson, B., & Dura, J. (2019, August 2). One year later, no answers from FBI about death of Olivia Lone Bear. Grand Forks Herald, B2.Family frustrated by lack of search efforts in Native America woman Olivia Lone Bear’s disappearance. (2017, December 11). NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/feature/missing-in-america/family-frustrated-lack-search-efforts-native-america-woman-olivia-lone-n828561Hopkins, R. (2018, September 11). When the missing and murdered Indigenous women crisis hits home. Teen Vogue. https://www.teenvogue.com/story/when-missing-and-murdered-indigenous-women-epidemic-hits-homeKeeler, J., & Keeler, J. (2024, January 24). ‘No crime scene’: The search for Olivia Lone Bear. High Country News. https://www.hcn.org/issues/50-12/tribal-affairs-no-crime-scene-the-search-for-olivia-lone-bear/Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Relatives (MMIWR) | NIWRC. (n.d.). https://www.niwrc.org/mmiwr-awarenessObituary for Olivia Keri Lone Bear at Langhans Funeral Homes, Inc. (2018, August 5). https://www.langhansfuneralhome.com/obituary/olivia-lone-bearOgden, E. (2018, January 2). $5000 more reward offered in search of Olivia Lone Bear. The Dickinson Press, 2.OLIVIA LONE BEAR. (n.d.). FBI. https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/seeking-info/olivia-lone-bearSkurzewski, J. (2019a, July 31). Investigation continues into death, disappearance of Olivia Lone Bear. https://www.kfyrtv.com. https://www.kfyrtv.com/content/news/Timeline-of-events-in-Olivia-Lone-Bear-investigation-513457331.htmlSkurzewski, J. (2019b, November 20). Feds meet with Lone Bear family, offer reward for information. https://www.kfyrtv.com. https://www.kfyrtv.com/content/news/Feds-meet-with-Lone-Bear-family-offer-reward-for-information-565233562.htmlSuspicious death: Olivia Lone Bear | New Town, ND | Uncovered. (n.d.). https://uncovered.com/cases/olivia-lone-bearThe Associated Press. (2019, November 21). Native woman found in Fort Berthold Lake was belted in. Rapid City Journal, A5.Wigginton, C. (2018, July 9). Frustration with investigation mounts. The Bismarck Tribune, A5. If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know!  If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com with Case Suggestion in the subject line. Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.

    29 min
  2. Chapter 131: In the Shadow of the Sun-The Disappearance of Myron Traylor

    FEB 11

    Chapter 131: In the Shadow of the Sun-The Disappearance of Myron Traylor

    On a blisteringly hot day in Phoenix, Arizona, 13-year-old Myron Traylor set out with his mother to do laundry. He stopped for a drink as his mother continued on, promising to catch up with her, but he never did. What would follow would be a decades-long mystery, plagued by rumors, as investigators searched for the missing boy. With no evidence, only theories to base a motive on, and a witness who may know more than what they're saying, this is the story of a boy who was here one moment and gone the next.  If you have any information regarding the disappearance of Myron Traylor, please contact:  The Phoenix Police Department at 602-495-5394 or The Missing and Unidentified Persons Unit at 602-534-2121 Connect with us on Social Media! You can find us at: Instagram: @bookofthedeadpod X: @bkofthedeadpod Facebook: The Book of the Dead Podcast TikTok: Bookofthedeadpod Or visit our website at www.botdpod.com 5 who still stymie searchers. (1997, July 29). The Arizona Republic, A4.Aug 06, 1990, page 8 - The Arizona Republic at Newspapers.comTM. (n.d.). Newspapers.com. https://www.newspapers.com/image/122454381/?match=1&terms=myron%20traylorBaxter, J. (2021, February 14). Gone Before Sunset: The Disappearance of Myron Traylor. Medium. https://medium.com/@jennbaxter_69070/gone-before-sunset-the-disappearance-of-myron-traylor-cd382f027cfcDaunt, T. (1989, February 16). Mom of missing boy fears worst, prays. The Arizona Republic, B1–B2.FindtheMissing. (2020, February 20). Myron Timell Traylor. The Resource Center for Cold Case Missing Children’s Cases. https://rcccmcc.com/2019/08/23/42-azm-myron-timell-traylor/Jeong, Y. (2016a, November 25). Missing Arizona children: Myron Traylor vanished after a stop for soda pop. The Arizona Republic, A3–A4.Jeong, Y. (2016b, November 26). 28 years later, still waiting at house on Pecan Road. The Arizona Republic, A3–A4.Missing: Myron Timell Traylor | Phoenix, AZ | Uncovered. (n.d.). https://uncovered.com/cases/myron-timell-traylorMissing Person / NAMUS #MP3935 | NAMUS. (n.d.). NamUs. https://namus.nij.ojp.gov/case/MP3935Missing person: Myron Traylor. (n.d.). Missing People in America. https://missingpeopleinamerica.org/missing/myron-traylorMyron Timell Traylor – The Charley Project. (n.d.). https://charleyproject.org/case/myron-timell-traylorMyron Traylor still missing without a trace 27 years later. (2015, August 3). NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/feature/cold-case-spotlight/myron-traylor-still-missing-without-trace-27-years-later-n398101Newbart, D. (1991, July 24). THE MYSTERY OF MYRONTHE TRAIL MAY BE COLD, BUT THE MEMORIES STILL HURT. Phoenix New Times. https://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/news/the-mystery-of-myronthe-trail-may-be-cold-but-the-memories-still-hurt-6411812/The National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NAMUS). (n.d.). NamUs.gov. https://www.namus.gov/MissingPersons/Case#/3935/detailsTorrey, J. F. (1989, August 4). Police hit dead end in search. The Arizona Republic, B2.Villa, J. (2002, May 22). Aunt remains hopeful he’ll come home. The Arizona Republic, B4. If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know!  If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com with Case Suggestion in the subject line. Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.

    27 min
  3. Chapter 130: A Failure of Justice-The Murder of D’Lisa Kelley

    FEB 4

    Chapter 130: A Failure of Justice-The Murder of D’Lisa Kelley

    The 2014 unsolved murder of D’Lisa Kelley has raised serious questions about investigative decisions and accountability. In this episode, I explore the timeline of her case and the concerns surrounding the law enforcement response. The investigation draws additional scrutiny due to the involvement of a Dallas police sergeant who was later connected to the controversial 2016 death of Tony Timpa, a man who died while restrained by officers during a call for help. The overlap between these cases raises difficult but necessary questions about oversight, responsibility, and how repeated controversies can impact public trust and justice outcomes. If you have any information about the murder of D’Lisa Kelley, you can call the North Texas Crime Commission at 877-373-8477   or visit their website to submit a tip  at www.ntcc.crimestoppersweb.com Connect with us on Social Media! You can find us at: Instagram: @bookofthedeadpod X: @bkofthedeadpod Facebook: The Book of the Dead Podcast TikTok: Bookofthedeadpod Or visit our website at www.botdpod.com Featuring a promo for Tragedy with a View: Hosted by Kayla, Tragedy with a View is an outdoor lover’s podcast for those who love true tales of tragic loss and unbelievable survival involving the wilderness, wildlife and weather.  Listen here For a full list of soures, visit botdpod.com Barry, A. (2017, April 1). Cold Case 2014: Missing Person Case Turns into Homicide. Who Killed Young Mother D’Lisa Kelley? NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth. https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/cold-case-2014-missing-person-case-turns-into-homicide-who-killed-expectant-mother-dlisa-kelley/13955/Binion, B., & Binion, B. (2023, September 28). Tony Timpa wrongful death trial ends with 2 out of 3 cops getting qualified immunity. Reason.com. https://reason.com/2023/09/27/tony-timpa-wrongful-death-trial-ends-with-2-out-of-3-cops-getting-qualified-immunity/Case, P. C. (2023, November 21). Cold Case Spotlight - D’Lisa Kelley - Project: Cold Case. Project: Cold Case. https://projectcoldcase.org/2016/07/03/cold-case-spotlight-dlisa-kelley/Dallas Police internal investigation launched in D’Lisa Kelley case. (2014, March 29). NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth. https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/dallas-police-launch-investigation-into-911-call-about-slain-pregnant-mother/1973171/Eiserer, T. (2014a, March 12). Dallas police seek help in locating missing pregnant mother. WFAA wfaa.com. https://web.archive.org/web/20140316154407/https:/www.wfaa.com/news/local/Dallas-police-seek-help-in-locating-missing-pregnant-mother--249913821.htmlEiserer, T. (2014b, November 18). Tapes raise new questions in unsolved murder case. wfaa.com. https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/tapes-raise-new-questions-in-unsolved-murder-case/287-304608176FOX 4 News Dallas-Fort Worth. (2016, March 15). Murder woman’s family sues Dallas police. FOX 4 News Dallas-Fort Worth. https://www.fox4news.com/news/murder-womans-family-sues-dallas-policeKalthoff, K. (2014, March 18). Friends, relatives hold vigil for slain Dallas mother. NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth. https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/friends-relatives-hold-vigil-for-slain-dallas-mother/205956/Kelley Alert Foundation. (2015a). 01. Initial call from grandmother (D’Lisa Kelley). Soundcloud. https://soundcloud.com/911tapes/01-1-initial-call-from-grandmother-dlisa-kelley?si=958757c79e7e49aeaa5923ca8cb9b49a&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharingKelley Alert Foundation. (2015b). 03 Operator called Seargent (D’Lisa Kelly). Soundcloud. https://soundcloud.com/911tapes/03-2operator-called-sergeant-dlisa-kelley?si=3d54961ad4aa46edb31c1ab9e18591f8&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharingLassiter, E. (2014, November 18). Audio Evidence: New 911 Calls in Pregnant Mom Murder Case. CW33. https://cw33.com/news/audio-evidence-disturbing-new-911-calls-in-pregnant-mom-murder-case/Lopez, R. (2024, February 3). “We could’ve found her”: D’Lisa Kelley’s family reflects on police investigation into her murder 10 years later. wfaa.com. https://www.wfaa.com/article/syndication/instagram/crime-reporters-notebook-dlisa-kelley-was-tortured-and-murdered-dallas-a-decade-ago-her-family-thinks-police-could-have-done-more-to-save-her/287-1a1af961-bd61-40b5-a8ed-ceaf21028a88Massie, G. (2023, October 2). Jurors share regret over verdict in trial for man who died when officer kneeled on his back. The Independent. https://www.the-independent.com/news/world/americas/timpa-dallas-police-trial-jurors-b2422609.htmlMurdered: D’Lisa Kelley | Dallas, TX | Uncovered. (n.d.). https://uncovered.com/cases/dlisa-kelleyMyParisTexas, MyParisTexas, & MyParisTexas. (2019, June 10). Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signs the go-ahead on the Kelley Alert. MyParisTexas - Rapid. Reliable. Respected. https://myparistexas.com/texas-gov-greg-abbott-signs-the-go-ahead-on-the-kelley-alert/Osibamowo, T. (2023, September 27). Federal jury awards " million to Tony Timpa’s son, finds 3 Dallas police officers liable for his death. KERA News. https://www.keranews.org/criminal-justice/2023-09-27/tony-timpa-verdict-wrongful-death-lawsuitSobell, C. (2021, March 16). Law and Disorder: Who Killed D’Lisa Kelley? Medium. https://medium.com/the-mystery-box/who-killed-dlisa-kelley-2014-cold-case-sparks-criticism-of-dallas-pd-88e6e4a910a1SWIFS investigative narrative. (n.d.). DocumentCloud. https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/6226349-SWIFS-Investigative-Narrative/Timpa v. Dillard - MacArthur Justice. (2023, November 12). MacArthur Justice. https://www.macarthurjustice.org/case/timpa-v-dillard/ If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know!  If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com with Case Suggestion in the subject line. Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.

    28 min
  4. Chapter 129: Small Town Silence-The Murder of Corinne Perry

    JAN 28

    Chapter 129: Small Town Silence-The Murder of Corinne Perry

    When 17-year-old Corinne Perry disappeared from Creston, Iowa, she seemed to vanish into thin air, leaving behind only an abandoned car and carefully folded clothes. The mystery of what happened in the hours before her death and just who was responsible has evaded investigators for decades. This is the story of a missing girl, which hit too close to home, so soon after another young boy went missing, leaving a community reeling.  Anyone with information about the murder of Corinne Perry is asked to contact: The Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation at (515) 725-6010, email dciinfo@dps.state.ia.us, or contact the Creston Police Department at (641) 782-8402. Connect with us on Social Media! You can find us at: Instagram: @bookofthedeadpod X: @bkofthedeadpod Facebook: The Book of the Dead Podcast TikTok: Bookofthedeadpod Or visit our website at www.botdpod.com Cavallier, A. (2020, April 10). Decades-old murder of Iowa teen in 1983 remains unsolved. Yahoo News. https://www.yahoo.com/news/decades-old-murder-iowa-teen-171200453.htmlCorinne Elaine Perry (1965-1983) - Find a grave. . . (1965, August 28). https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/143319127/corinne-elaine-perryCoulter, C. (2025, June 7). She went to the laundromat alone — then a man followed her out, and she was never seen alive again. People.com. https://people.com/corrine-perry-iowa-teen-vanished-laundromat-11748033Gene “didn’t run away. . .his birthday was coming.” (1984, September 2). The Des Moines Register, 6A.Heinlein, G. (1984, November 4). Young hunters find remains of Corinne Perry. The Des Moines Register, 3B.Iowa Cold Cases, Inc. (2025, December 13). Corinne Perry | Iowa Cold cases. Iowa Cold Cases. https://iowacoldcases.org/case-summaries/corinne-perry/National Missing Children’s Day | About Missing Children’s Day | Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. (n.d.). Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/nmcd/about-missing-childrens-dayO’Brien, C. (2024, December 3). The Murder of Corinne Perry. Medium. https://medium.com/@Charlie_OBrien/the-murder-of-corinne-perry-e02aa50ff8dbOffer reward for teen. (1983, May 10). The Daily Reporter, 3.Pastor conducts prayer vigil for missing girl. (1983, May 15). The Des Moines Register, 8B.Perry, C., Creston Police Dept., & Iowa DCI. (1983). HOMICIDE VICTIM. https://www.iowaattorneygeneral.gov/media/cms/ICC_Playing_Card_9_clubs_5DE29B15A4BA0.pdfRaffensperger, G. (1984, February 6). Search goes on for girl missing nearly 10 months. The Des Moines Register, 3A.Santiago, F. (1983, July 3). Creston folks gather to find young woman who is missing. The Des Moines Register, 5B.Santiago, F. (1984a, November 5). Officers seek death cause. The Des Moines Register, 2A.Santiago, F. (1984b, November 7). Cause of Perry death may remain a mystery. The Des Moines Register, 2A.Shaw, B. (1984, September 18). Call about missing daughter mystifies, unnerves Iowa mother. The Des Moines Register, 2M.Woman still searching for justice in sister Corinne Perry’s murder nearly 40 years after she was killed after leaving Iowa laundromat. (2020, April 11). NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline/woman-still-searching-justice-sister-corinne-perry-s-murder-nearly-n1181291 If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know!  If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com with Case Suggestion in the subject line. Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.

    26 min
  5. Chapter 128: A Stranger Came Home-The Disappearance of Nicholas Barclay

    JAN 21

    Chapter 128: A Stranger Came Home-The Disappearance of Nicholas Barclay

    In 1994, 13-year-old Nicholas Barclay vanished from San Antonio, Texas, never to be seen again. Three years later, a young man claiming to be Nicholas resurfaced in Spain, but something wasn’t right. His accent was wrong. His appearance had changed. And the truth was far more disturbing than anyone imagined. 3 years after I last covered it, I'm revisiting one of the most baffling missing persons cases I have ever come across, with a conman whose lies buried the mystery of what happened to a young teenager even further into obscurity. If you have any information on the disappearance of Nicholas Barclay, please contact the San Antonio Police at 210-207-7484 Connect with us on Social Media! You can find us at: Instagram: @bookofthedeadpod X: @bkofthedeadpod Facebook: The Book of the Dead Podcast TikTok: Bookofthedeadpod Or visit our website at www.botdpod.com Featuring a promo for Sinister Story Hour: These are the stories your mother never told you! Join Steph for the spookiest story time as she tells short tales of true crime, cults, or missing persons. Listen Here Annett, J. (2025, September 6). Boy lived with parents for five months before they realised he wasn’t their son. Daily Mirror. https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/boy-lived-parents-five-months-35860585Davis, N. (1998, November 7). The boy who came back from the dead. Sydney Morning Herald, 4S-5S.Dec 13, 1998, page 54 - San Antonio Express-News at Newspapers.comTM. (n.d.). Newspapers.com. https://www.newspapers.com/image/1280925736/?match=1&terms=%22nicholas%20barclay%22Grann, D. (2008, August 4). The Chameleon. The New Yorker. https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2008/08/11/the-chameleon-annals-of-crime-david-grannHave you seen this child? Nicholas Patrick Barclay. (n.d.). https://www.missingkids.org/poster/NCMC/802112/1Hernandez, E. (2019, May 2). Case of missing San Antonio boy from 1994 remains a mystery. KSAT. https://www.ksat.com/news/2019/05/02/case-of-missing-san-antonio-boy-from-1994-remains-a-mystery/Nicholas Patrick Barclay – The Charley Project. (n.d.). https://charleyproject.org/case/nicholas-patrick-barclaySamuel, H. (2005, June 13). “Chameleon” caught pretending to be boy. The Telegraph. https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/france/1491956/Chameleon-caught-pretending-to-be-boy.html?ICID=continue_without_subscribing_reg_firstSerena, K. (2025, September 26). The mystery of Nicholas Barclay and his imposter, Frédéric Bourdin. All That’s Interesting. https://allthatsinteresting.com/nicholas-barclay-frederic-bourdinThe mysterious disappearance of Nicholas Barclay. (n.d.). Criminal. https://vocal.media/criminal/the-mysterious-disappearance-of-nicholas-barclaywww.lostnfoundblogs.com. (n.d.). Nicholas Barclay: A cruel con. https://lostnfoundblogs.com/f/nicholas-barclay-a-cruel-con If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know!  If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com with Case Suggestion in the subject line. Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.

    34 min
  6. Chapter 127: Gone in the Dark-The Disappearance of Tera Lynn Smith

    JAN 14

    Chapter 127: Gone in the Dark-The Disappearance of Tera Lynn Smith

    18 years before Sherri Papini shocked the world with her kidnapping hoax, another girl vanished from Redding, California, but she never came home. When 16-year-old Tera Lynn Smith disappeared on a quiet night in August 1998, her family was desperate to find her, but they received far more questions than answers. As I revisit her story, I uncover a lesser-known connection to the Sherri Papini case that complicates an already heartbreaking mystery, and walk you through why one man had every reason to want Tera to never be found.  If you or anyone you know has any information, you can contact the Shasta County Sheriff’s office Major Crimes unit at 530-245-6025.  You can also email them at sheriff@co.shasta.ca.us, and the case number to reference is 98-25673. Connect with us on Social Media! You can find us at: Instagram: @bookofthedeadpod X: @bkofthedeadpod Facebook: The Book of the Dead Podcast TikTok: Bookofthedeadpod Or visit our website at www.botdpod.com 2202DFCA - Tera Lynn Smith. (2007, March 9). The Doe Network. https://www.doenetwork.org/cases/software/mp-main.html?id=2202dfcaAdmin. (2024, February 17). The Disappearance of Tera Smith - Disappeared. Disappeared. https://disappearedblog.com/tera-smith/#:~:text=Case%20Information,What%20is%20this?Breitler, A. (1999, August 15). Tera Smith’s family still seeks answers. Record Searchlight, A1–A4.Brown, C. L. (1998, October 2). Investigators defend tactics in Tera’s case. Record Searchlight, A1–A8.Cold Case Spotlight: Tera Smith. (2022, April 17). [Video]. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline/family-pushing-justice-1998-disappearance-daughter-tera-smith-redding-california-n1294488Conklin, A., & Conklin, A. (2024a, July 16). Famed California kidnapping hoaxer Sherri Papini breathes new life into schoolmate’s 1998 disappearance. Fox News. https://www.foxnews.com/us/famed-california-kidnapping-hoaxer-sherri-papini-breathes-new-life-schoolmates-1998-disappearanceConklin, A., & Conklin, A. (2024b, July 16). Famed California kidnapping hoaxer Sherri Papini breathes new life into schoolmate’s 1998 disappearance. Fox News. https://www.foxnews.com/us/famed-california-kidnapping-hoaxer-sherri-papini-breathes-new-life-schoolmates-1998-disappearanceHart, A. (1998, September 12). Detectives again search Zink home and studio. Record Searchlight, B1–B2.Inside the haunting Tera Smith cold case that shadowed Sherri Papini’s kidnapping hoax. (2024, June 29). E! Online. https://www.eonline.com/news/1404342/inside-the-haunting-tera-smith-cold-case-that-shadowed-sherri-papinis-kidnapping-hoaxKindelan, K. (2025, June 20). Sherri Papini claims ex-boyfriend abducted her in 2016 hoax kidnapping case. ABC News. https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/News/sherri-papini-claims-boyfriend-abducted-2016-hoax-kidnapping/story?id=122988913King, T. (1998, November 8). Girl’s disappearance strains detectives. Record Searchlight, A-10.Lyon, R. (2023, October 2). The Mysterious Case of Homecoming Queen Tera Lynn Smith and Her Martial Arts Instructor. Medium. https://medium.com/@unquestionablycriminal/the-mysterious-case-of-homecoming-queen-tera-lynn-smith-and-her-martial-arts-instructor-df98810983a6MISSING - Tera Lynn Smith | Solve the Case. (n.d.). Solve the Case. https://www.solvethecase.org/case/1998-5/Tera-SmithPallas, G. (2023, March 24). Tera Smith: Strange case of a Lost Teen Girl. George Pallas. https://georgepallas.com/blog/2022/04/tera-smith/Papini possibly lying opens up old wounds for Tera Smith’s family. (2022, March 18). KRCR. https://krcrtv.com/news/local/papini-possibly-lying-opens-up-old-wounds-for-tera-smiths-familySchultz, J. (2022, April 19). 20-plus years without Tera Smith: Questions remain about Redding teen who vanished in 1998. Record Searchlight. https://www.redding.com/story/news/2022/04/18/tera-smith-redding-ca-questions-remain-teen-missing-homecoming-queen-vanished-2008-dateline-show/7362784001/Still seeking justice 25 years later the unsolved disappearance of Tera Smith from Redding. (2023, August 23). KRCR. https://krcrtv.com/news/local/tera-smith-disappearance-25-years-laterTera Lynn Smith – The Charley Project. (n.d.). https://charleyproject.org/case/tera-lynn-smithThe Associated Press. (1999, August 16). Redding girl, 16, vanished without a trace a year ago. Enterprise Record, 4.Vulpo, M. (2022, April 18). Sherri Papini formally pleads guilty after admitting kidnapping was a hoax. E! Online. https://www.eonline.com/news/1327711/sherri-papini-formally-pleads-guilty-after-admitting-kidnapping-was-a-hoax If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know!  If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com with Case Suggestion in the subject line. Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.

    26 min
  7. Chapter 126: The Final Call-The Murder of Robbie Doerr

    JAN 7

    Chapter 126: The Final Call-The Murder of Robbie Doerr

    What happens when the danger isn’t on the job, but waiting at home? Robbie Doerr was a veteran firefighter who never imagined the greatest threat would come from someone he trusted.  When Evansville, Indiana, is rocked by the murder of a beloved member of their community, the police have very few clues to go on to find the killer. With no murder weapon, witnesses who saw nothing, and no known enemies to look into, the case should have hit a wall. However, the clue they needed to propel the case forward was in the form of one deleted phone call that the killer never thought would see the light of day.   Connect with us on Social Media! You can find us at: Instagram: @bookofthedeadpod X: @bkofthedeadpod Facebook: The Book of the Dead Podcast TikTok: Bookofthedeadpod Or visit our website at www.botdpod.com Featuring a promo for True Crime Connections Podcast: True Crime Connections is a survivor-led podcast where stories of abuse, trauma, and resilience are shared with raw honesty and purpose. We exist to break cycles of silence and shame by giving survivors the microphone—and turning lived experiences into sparks of hope and healing because your voice matters. Listen here  ABC News. (n.d.). Indiana woman on learning investigators believed sister cheated with her fiancé [Video]. ABC News. https://abcnews.go.com/2020/video/indiana-woman-learning-investigators-believed-sister-cheated-fianc-115617679Chute, N. (2019, March 18). What we know about the fatal shooting of an Evansville firefighter. Courier & Press. https://www.courierpress.com/story/news/2019/02/27/evansville-firefighter-death-what-we-know-indiana-shooting/3003459002/Court of Appeals of Indiana. (2025). Elizabeth Joanne Fox-Doerr V. State of Indiana. In Justia U.S. Law (No. 24A-CR-1673). Indiana Supreme Court of Appeals. https://law.justia.com/cases/indiana/court-of-appeals/2025/24a-cr-01673.htmlCrime Desk. (2025, February 18). Betrayal in Flames: The Murder of Firefighter Robbie Doerr. Medium. https://medium.com/@crimedesk/betrayal-in-flames-the-murder-of-firefighter-robbie-doerr-d82efb1494fcCup of Coffee & Crime. (2025, August 25). A Mistress, A Murderer, and Robbie Doerr: A Fallen Hero. Medium. https://medium.com/@coffeecrimeandcosmetics/a-mistress-a-murderer-and-robbie-doerr-a-fallen-hero-f4d342bc5c49Doyle, A., & Fater, T. (2019, February 28). “Another Dark Day”: Comrades react to firefighter’s fatal shooting. Evansville Courier and Press, A1–A5.Endale, B. (2020, February 27). Person of interest named in firefighter shooting. Evansville Courier and Press, A1–A6.Fater, T. (2019a, February 28). Police seeking anyone who has information. Evansville Courier and Press, A1–A5.Fater, T. (2019b, March 20). Things we learned from the 911 calls. Evansville Courier and Press, A3.Harris, D. (2024, June 18). Firefighter’s wife learns her fate for telling boyfriend to murder husband for benefits. Law & Crime. https://lawandcrime.com/crime/i-will-never-be-able-to-forgive-her-firefighters-wife-learns-her-fate-for-telling-boyfriend-to-murder-husband-so-she-could-receive-benefits/Jury reaches verdict in sentencing recommendation for man found guilty of murder of EFD firefighter. (2025, December 18). WEVV 44News. https://www.wevv.com/news/crime/jury-reaches-verdict-in-sentencing-recommendation-for-man-found-guilty-of-murder-of-efd-firefighter/article_2839444a-65b1-4254-94d0-e204786a2006.htmlLempert, C. (2024, November 8). Deleted cellphone data helps reveal murder of Indiana fireman. ABC News. https://abcnews.go.com/US/deleted-cellphone-data-helps-reveal-murder-indiana-fireman/story?id=115516049Lyman, J., & Carter, M. (2022, August 18). Wife and convicted murderer both charged in death of Evansville firefighter. https://www.14news.com. https://www.14news.com/2022/08/18/wife-convicted-murderer-both-charged-death-evansville-firefighter/Neumann, S. (2025, May 27). Cheating wife wanted her husband dead — and her lover was a convicted killer. A court just ruled on her fate. People.com. https://people.com/cheating-wife-wanted-her-husband-dead-lover-convicted-killer-11742178Obituary for Robert F. Doerr II. (n.d.). Pierre Funeral Home. https://www.pierrefuneralhome.com/obituaries/Robert-Doerr-3/#!/ObituaryShrestha, N. (2024, November 8). Robert “Robbie” Doerr: How did he die? Who killed him? The Cinemaholic. https://thecinemaholic.com/robert-robbie-doerr/Taurus Judge. (n.d.). Palmetto State Armory. https://palmettostatearmory.com/brands/taurus/taurus-revolvers/judge.html#:~:text=What%20Ammunition%20Can%20It%20Use,quality%2C%20factory%2Dloaded%20rounds.Webb, J. (2019, August 26). Here are unsolved city homicides from the past two years. Evansville Courier and Press, 2A.Wife of slain Indiana firefighter charged in his murder along with convicted murderer. (2022, August 19). [Video]. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/wife-killed-firefighter-convicted-murderer-boyfriend-charged-death-rcna43894Young, I. (2025, December 16). Trial begins for Larry Richmond Sr. in 2019 firefighter’s murder. Yahoo News. https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/trial-begins-larry-richmond-sr-013004741.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAMGsynsLF6qn_E5vrslsyAudhQ3GLpzv0e4tn33P9Pmsi1jcxw1XuaFijthiQ0iQXI98W-qKr05GLa9e_RhTL67to8BVYgwpRXRI_XJUN90z1c9Q-VeVFnnv1iL-Jd_UggKYdDqlwydd-hhUmdkJCxS9hEBW9bXtTbFUXMI-9Rcl If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know!  If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com with Case Suggestion in the subject line. Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.

    37 min
  8. Chapter 125: Killed in Plain Sight-The Murder of Joyce Paneck-Saglimbene

    12/17/2025

    Chapter 125: Killed in Plain Sight-The Murder of Joyce Paneck-Saglimbene

    A quiet afternoon. A parking garage. A crime that would haunt a community for decades. The murder of Joyce Paneck-Saglimbene in 1976 shocked Englewood, New Jersey, but with little evidence and no suspects, her case faded into obscurity for three decades. As hope for justice waned, a sudden arrest brought her case back into the spotlight, but was the killer really found? If you have any information about Joyce's murder, you can contact the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office (201)226-5532 Connect with us on Social Media! You can find us at: Instagram: @bookofthedeadpod X: @bkofthedeadpod Facebook: The Book of the Dead Podcast TikTok: Bookofthedeadpod Or visit our website at www.botdpod.com Featuring a promo for Family Plot Podcast: a podcast featuring Dean Boese, Laura Williams and their 15 year old son Arthur where they do PG-13 takes on all things odd Listen here Alaya, A. M. (2006, August 24). DNA results could sway case in secretary’s 1976 killing. The Star Ledger, A17–A21.Arias, L. (2006, August 30). Arrest made in 1976 murder case. Northern Valley Suburbanite, 6. Bronx man arrested in 30-year-old murder. (2006, August 23). The Daily Journal, A5.Content, C. (2019, January 11). Cold case: criminal activity assured. New York Daily News. https://www.nydailynews.com/2009/08/29/cold-case-criminal-activity-assured/Dillon, N. (2018, April 9). HE's GOT TO PAY FOR 76' SLAY, EX-HUBBY SAYS. New York Daily News. https://www.nydailynews.com/2006/08/24/hes-got-to-pay-for-76-slay-ex-hubby-says/Dillon, N., Bode, N., & Kadushin, P. (2018, April 9). HIS KILLER PAST.BELOVED, HARDWORKING BX. DAD IS CHARGED WITH STABBING WOMAN 19 TIMES IN 1976 JERSEY SLAYING. New York Daily News. https://www.nydailynews.com/2006/08/23/his-killer-past-beloved-hardworking-bx-dad-is-charged-with-stabbing-woman-19-times-in-1976-jersey-slaying/Feuer, A. (2006, August 23). Arrest in a 30-Year-Old Murder Case Reignites the Pain of a Victim’s Family. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2006/08/23/nyregion/23cold.htmlMarkos, K. (2008, September 19). Man pleads guilty in 1976 slaying. The Record, L1.Meuller, M., & Peet, J. (2006, August 23). To her brother, victim will always be 27, smiling and beautiful. The Star Ledger, 5.Mongelli, L. (2006, August 23). SLAY BUST ENDS 30-YEAR WEIGHT - “PEACE” AT LAST FOR ’76 VICTIM’S BROTHER. New York Post. https://nypost.com/2006/08/23/slay-bust-ends-30-year-weight-peace-at-last-for-76-victims-brother/The Record Staff. (1976, May 16). Police seek firm clues in murder. The Sunday Record, A24. If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a review or rating! It helps more than you know!  If you have a case suggestion, or want attention brought to a loved one's case, email me at bookofthedeadpod@gmail.com with Case Suggestion in the subject line. Stay safe, stay curious, and stay vigilant.

    28 min
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46 Ratings

About

Hosted by Courtney Liso, The Book of the Dead is a true crime podcast that focuses on the victims of lesser-known crimes. Each episode presents a deep dive into a case from around the world, dissecting the details to tell the whole story of who each victim was, in addition to what happened to them. Formerly hosted by a mother-daughter team, the podcast has evolved with one host, taking the care necessary to ensure each victim is honored as they should be. Join Courtney every Wednesday at 12am EST for a new chapter in The Book of the Dead. 

Information

  • Creator
    Courtney Liso
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    153
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright The Book of the Dead Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Book of the Dead

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