Beyond the Autopsy

Ken and Christina Mullis

Beyond the Autopsy isn’t just about the crime—it’s about the stories hidden beneath the surface, the investigations beyond the autopsy table, and the truth that often goes untold. Join medicolegal death investigator Ken Mullis and his true crime enthusiast wife, Christina, as they uncover the darkest secrets of death and unravel the mysteries of true crime, one body at a time.  Disclaimer: All cases discussed are closed or cold cases with information obtained through open source or public records request.  Justice and integrity are shared values of ours. Careful attention is taken to ensure we don’t  cause harm to active investigations. This podcast is a stand-alone project and not an extension or representation of any current or past employer. 

Episodes

  1. 04/02/2025

    Oil Drips

    Tell us what you like! A school day begins like any other until an eight-year-old boy vanishes between his trailer park home and the classroom. Hours later, his small body is discovered at a secluded dead-end road. For death investigator Ken Mullis, this 1995 Clermont County case would become the catalyst for his entire career – his first glimpse into the forensic world that would become his life's work. The pathologist's findings tell a horrifying story: crushed chest, internal injuries, evidence of strangulation. More disturbing still is what the victim's five-year-old brother reveals when brought to the crime scene days later. His spontaneous reaction – "That's where we left Bubby" – sends the investigation in an unthinkable direction. Jerry Howell was known as a "rascal" at school and church, but also showed remarkable tenderness toward his younger brother. Despite living in poverty, with a mother facing numerous challenges, he demonstrated uncommon generosity – once asking sponsors who bought him a Power Rangers jacket to get something for his brother too. Tragically, this same beloved toy may have sparked the confrontation that led to his death. Through meticulous collection of evidence, timeline analysis, and witness statements, investigators build a case against someone who should have been Jerry's protector. What makes this episode particularly powerful is how it demonstrates that even without modern technology, determined investigators using fundamental techniques can still speak for victims who can no longer speak for themselves. As we examine the warning signs that went unnoticed, we're reminded how small indicators of trouble – like oil drips from a car engine – can lead to catastrophic failure when ignored. This story isn't just about solving a murder; it's about recognizing when those around us might be headed toward breakdown before the damage runs too deep. Support the show Thank you for listening!

    1 hr

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Beyond the Autopsy isn’t just about the crime—it’s about the stories hidden beneath the surface, the investigations beyond the autopsy table, and the truth that often goes untold. Join medicolegal death investigator Ken Mullis and his true crime enthusiast wife, Christina, as they uncover the darkest secrets of death and unravel the mysteries of true crime, one body at a time.  Disclaimer: All cases discussed are closed or cold cases with information obtained through open source or public records request.  Justice and integrity are shared values of ours. Careful attention is taken to ensure we don’t  cause harm to active investigations. This podcast is a stand-alone project and not an extension or representation of any current or past employer.