Murders in Massachusetts

About Murders in Massachusetts

Murders in Massachusetts is a true crime podcast exploring real homicide cases, unsolved murders, and criminal investigations across the Bay State. From quiet suburban neighborhoods to historic city streets, each episode dives into the stories that have left lasting marks on local communities. Through detailed storytelling and a strong local lens, the podcast examines not only what happened—but where, and why these cases continue to resonate. Focusing on Massachusetts murders, cold cases, and unsolved homicides, Murders in Massachusetts goes beyond the headlines—uncovering timelines, unanswered questions, and the people at the center of each story. Because in Massachusetts… every town has a story.

Publisher

Jonathan Power

Category

true crime

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

28 Apr 2026

Latest episode

21 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

13 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   21 Oct 2026

   The Girl on the Billboard | The Susan “Su” Taraskiewicz Story

   In September 1992, 27-year-old Susan “Su” Taraskiewicz was building a life and career at Boston's Logan International Airport. A hardworking young woman from Saugus, Massachusetts, Su had earned a position in an industry where women were still fighting to be treated equally. But behind the scenes, trouble was brewing. Workplace tensions, allegations of harassment, and a hostile environment would become part of a much larger story. Then, one September morning, Su's life came to a devastating end. Her murder would leave her family searching for answers, investigators confronting troubling questions, and eventually, her smiling face appearing on a billboard along one of the busiest roadways leading to Logan Airport. In Part One of The Girl on the Billboard, we travel back to Massachusetts in 1992, exploring the gritty streets of Revere, the busy corridors of Logan Airport, and the events leading up to Su's murder. Part Two: Available Wednesday, October 28th, 2026, Who was Susan Taraskiewicz? What was happening in her life and workplace? And were there warning signs that something terrible was about to happen? Featuring special contributor Dianne C. Braley, author, speaker, nurse, and advocate, who shares her perspective on Su's case and the continuing search for justice. Learn more about Dianne and her work: Website: https://www.diannecbraley.com (https://www.diannecbraley.com) YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WICKEDHONESTTRUECRIME (https://www.youtube.com/@WICKEDHONESTTRUECRIME) Facebook discussion group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1693799815269383 (https://www.facebook.com/groups/1693799815269383) More than three decades later, Su's murder remains unsolved. Someone knows what happened to Susan “Su” Taraskiewicz. Murders in Massachusetts — Every Town Has a Story. Visit MurdersinMA.com for more episodes and updates.

2. 

   19 Oct 2026

   The Farwell Trial — Part One: The Backstory and Week One of the Trial

   In February 2021, 23-year-old Sandra Birchmore was found dead inside her Canton, Massachusetts, apartment. She was pregnant, and her death was initially ruled a suicide. More than five years later, a former Stoughton police detective is standing trial in federal court, accused of murdering Sandra and staging her death to conceal years of alleged sexual exploitation. How did a young woman who dreamed of becoming a police officer become the center of one of Massachusetts' most disturbing law enforcement scandals? In Part One of our coverage of the federal trial of Matthew Farwell, host Jonathan Power takes listeners back to where the story began. We examine Sandra's involvement in the Stoughton Police Explorers program, her relationship with Farwell, the circumstances surrounding her death, and the investigation that ultimately led to federal murder charges. Then, we turn to Week One of the Trial, which began October 9, 2026, at the federal courthouse in Boston. Prosecutors presented their theory of a calculated murder and cover-up, while Farwell's defense maintained that Sandra died by suicide. As testimony began, jurors heard from people who knew Sandra, law enforcement officers involved in the original investigation, and witnesses who helped establish the timeline of her final days. Surveillance footage, questions surrounding the original investigation, and conflicting accounts of Sandra's state of mind became central issues during the opening week. This is more than a murder trial. It's a case raising difficult questions about trust, authority, accountability, and what happens when the people entrusted with protecting a community are themselves accused of wrongdoing. Join us as we examine the evidence, the testimony, and the questions at the center of United States v. Matthew Farwell. Some stories are still being written. Murders in Massachusetts — Every Town Has a Story. Editor's Note: Matthew Farwell has pleaded not guilty. All criminal allegations remain allegations unless established in court. This episode discusses testimony and proceedings from the trial's opening week and does not imply a verdict or determination of guilt.

3. 

   8 Oct 2026

   The deadliest mass shooting in Massachusetts | Edgewater Technology Shooting

   Seven Lives Lost at Edgewater Technology On December 26, 2000, the day after Christmas, employees at Edgewater Technology in Wakefield, Massachusetts, returned to work expecting an ordinary day. Instead, their workplace became the scene of one of the deadliest mass shootings in Massachusetts history. Armed with a semiautomatic rifle, employee Michael McDermott opened fire inside the company's offices, killing seven of his coworkers. But behind the headlines, the police investigation, and the courtroom proceedings were seven people whose lives were stolen—and families whose lives would never be the same. In this episode of Murders in Massachusetts, we revisit the tragedy that shook Wakefield and examine the events leading up to the shooting, the investigation, and the devastating aftermath. Seven victims. Seven families. One community forever changed. The victims were Jennifer Bragg Capobianco, Janice Hagerty, Louis A. Javelle, Rose Manfredi, Paul Marceau, Cheryl Troy, and Craig Wood. In 2002, McDermott was convicted of seven counts of first-degree murder. Some stories are still being written. Every town has a story.

4. 

   3 Sept 2026

   The White Mink Coat

   On an April evening in 1989, Marianne Lewis and her husband were headed into Boston for what appeared to be a special night at the theater. They would never make it to the show. Inside a Boston parking garage, Marianne was struck by a speeding car and left with catastrophic injuries. What initially appeared to be a horrific hit-and-run would remain largely unexplained for years. But this was no accident. In this episode of Murders in Massachusetts, we uncover the extraordinary story behind The White Mink Coat—a troubled marriage, a carefully planned night in Boston, and the investigation that would eventually reveal a far more sinister plot. It’s a story of betrayal, survival, and a conspiracy that almost remained hidden.

5. 

   13 Aug 2026

   The Hockey Dad Murder

   What begins as an ordinary youth hockey practice ends in tragedy when an argument over rough play erupts into a fatal confrontation between two fathers. On July 5, 2000, Thomas Junta and Michael Costin crossed paths at the Burbank Ice Arena in Reading, Massachusetts. After an initial scuffle was broken up, Junta left the rink—only to return minutes later. A second fight unfolded in front of nearly a dozen children, including the sons of both men. Costin never regained consciousness and died the following day. The killing became national news and transformed Junta into the infamous “Hockey Dad,” turning the case into a wider debate about parental rage and violence in youth sports. In this episode, we examine the conflicting accounts of the fight, Junta’s claim of self-defense, the disputed medical evidence, the involuntary-manslaughter verdict and the lasting consequences for both families. Beyond the sensational headline is a disturbing story of anger, childhood trauma and violence whose effects continued long after the ice arena fell silent. Content warning: This episode discusses fatal violence, domestic-abuse allegations, childhood trauma, mental-health treatment and premature death.

6. 

   24 Jul 2026

   Murders in Groton - BONUS EPISODE: Deadly Sister - The Diary Murder

   In 1996, sixteen-year-old Stephanie Santerre disappeared from a home in Groton, Massachusetts. At first, it appeared she had simply left after an argument. But as investigators began questioning the people closest to her, a far more disturbing story emerged—one involving a private diary, dangerous jealousy, and a betrayal from inside Stephanie’s own family. Nearly thirty years later, a landmark court decision would bring the case back into the spotlight and force Stephanie’s loved ones to confront the past once again. BONUS EPISODE: In Part Three of Murders in Groton, we uncover the truth behind Stephanie’s disappearance and the secret that tore an already fractured family apart. This is Deadly Sister: The Diary Murder. This episode discusses murder, sexual conduct involving a minor, and domestic violence. Listener discretion is advised.

7. 

   15 Jul 2026

   Murders in Groton - Part Two: Behind Closed Doors

   Some tragedies happen without warning. Others leave behind difficult questions about whether they could have been prevented. In Part Two of our Murders in Groton series, we examine a case that shook this quiet New England community once again—one that raises important conversations about mental illness, domestic violence, warning signs, and the challenges families face when they desperately seek help. Beyond the headlines, we remember the life of a woman whose kindness touched those around her and explore the lasting impact her loss had on her family and the Groton community. Join host Jonathan Power for another thoughtful and investigative look at a case that reminds us that not every tragedy begins with a single moment—it can unfold quietly, behind closed doors.

8. 

   8 Jul 2026

   Murders in Groton - Part One: The Quadruple Homicide on Common Street

   Murders in Groton: When Tragedy Comes to a Quiet Town Part One: The Quadruple Homicide on Common Street Groton, Massachusetts, is known for its rolling farmland, historic homes, elite schools, and quiet New England charm. For generations, it has been a place where families built their lives believing they had found peace. On September 8, 2017, that peace was shattered. Inside a home on Common Street, four people were brutally killed in one of the deadliest family homicides in recent Massachusetts history. The victims—Elizabeth Lackey, Frank Lackey, Elizabeth Krause, and home health aide Bertha Mae Parker—were attacked in a place where they should have been safest. In this episode of Murders in Massachusetts, we go beyond the headlines to examine the events leading up to that tragic day, the frantic phone calls made in the final moments before the killings, the investigation that followed, and the questions that continue to surround the case. You'll also hear the story of Groton itself—a town whose nearly 400-year history was forever altered by an act of unimaginable violence. This is not a story about sensationalizing tragedy. It's about remembering the victims, understanding the circumstances, and exploring how one afternoon changed a community forever. Part One explores the quadruple homicide on Common Street. Coming next: Part Two: Behind Closed Doors, examining another tragedy that would once again shake the town of Groton just two years later. 🎙️ Murders in Massachusetts Every Town Has a Story.

9. 

   16 Jun 2026

   The Disappearance of Melanie Melanson

   The Disappearance of Melanie Melanson On October 27, 1989, fourteen-year-old Melanie Melanson vanished after attending a party in a wooded area near an industrial park in Woburn, Massachusetts. She never made it home. What began as a missing person case soon became one of Massachusetts' most haunting unsolved mysteries. Over the decades, investigators have followed countless leads, searched remote locations, conducted multiple excavations, and interviewed witnesses who were present during Melanie's final hours. Yet more than three decades later, critical questions remain unanswered. In this episode of Murders in Massachusetts, host Jonathan Power examines the timeline of Melanie's disappearance, the party where she was last seen, the individuals believed to be among the last people to see her alive, and the many twists that have defined this case over the years. Featuring historical reporting, investigative records, and firsthand perspectives, this episode explores the unanswered questions, the impact on Melanie's family, and the ongoing search for justice. Someone knows what happened to Melanie Melanson. After more than 35 years, her family is still waiting for answers. If you have information regarding Melanie Melanson's disappearance, please contact law enforcement. To learn more about the case, visit MelanieMelanson.com (http://MelanieMelanson.com). Some stories are still being written. Contributors: Billie-Sue Hutchins

10. 

    27 May 2026

    Searching for Answers: Part Two - The Murder of Breanne Pennington

    In October 2023, the quiet city of Gardner, Massachusetts became the center of a tragedy that continues to raise questions more than two years later. Thirty-year-old Breanne Pennington — a mother of four — was found murdered inside her Cherry Street home. Investigators say her husband, Aaron Pennington, fled shortly after the killing and has not been seen since. Despite extensive searches, national attention, and an active murder warrant, the mystery surrounding Aaron Pennington’s disappearance remains unsolved. In Part Two of Searching for Answers, we continue examining the events surrounding Breanne’s death, the unanswered questions investigators still face, and the emotional impact left behind on those who knew her best. For the first time in this series, listeners will also hear Breanne’s own voice — offering a deeply personal and haunting reminder of the life at the center of this case. As investigators continue searching for Aaron Pennington, many are still left asking: Where is Aaron Pennington? Contributors: Brenda Hull — Aunt of Breanne Pennington Sarah Wilcox — Close Friend of Breanne Pennington Stephen Landry — Reporter, The Gardner News

11. 

    20 May 2026

    Searching for Answers: Part One - The Murder of Breanne Pennington

    In October 2023, the quiet city of Gardner, Massachusetts became the center of a tragedy that continues to raise questions more than two years later. Thirty-year-old Breanne Pennington — a mother of four — was found murdered inside her Cherry Street home. Investigators say her husband, Aaron Pennington, fled shortly after the killing and has not been seen since. Despite extensive searches, national attention, and an active murder warrant, the mystery surrounding Aaron Pennington’s disappearance remains unsolved. In Part One of Searching for Answers, We examine what Breanne’s life was like before and leading up to her death, the events of October 22nd, 2023, and the growing questions surrounding one of Massachusetts’ most haunting ongoing fugitive cases. As investigators continue searching for Aaron Pennington, many are still left asking: Where is Aaron Pennington? Part Two drops Tuesday, May 26th, 2026. Contributors: Brenda Hull — Aunt of Breanne Pennington Stephen Landry — Reporter, The Gardner News The Gardner News (https://www.thegardnernews.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

12. 

    5 May 2026

    The Mansion Murders - Part Two | The unsolved double homicide of John and Geraldine Magee

    In the quiet, prestigious town of Andover, Massachusetts—where tradition, wealth, and privacy define everyday life—a brutal crime shattered the illusion of safety. John and Geraldine “Jack and Jeri” Magee were found murdered inside their home, leaving behind a case filled with unanswered questions. In Part Two of The Mansion Murders, the timeline begins to take shape. We examine the events as they unfolded, the role of the weapon, and the investigation that followed—uncovering details that raise more questions than answers in the years ahead. More than a decade later… the case remains unsolved. Contributors: Lillian Montalto of Lillian Montalto Signature Properties International https://www.andoverhomes.com/ (https://www.andoverhomes.com/), Bob Ward – Boston 25 News, Julia Cowley – retired FBI Profiler and host of The Consult: Real FBI Profilers https://www.truecrimeconsult.com/ (https://www.truecrimeconsult.com/)

13. 

    28 Apr 2026

    The Mansion Murders - Part One | The unsolved double homicide of John and Geraldine Magee

    In the quiet, prestigious town of Andover, Massachusetts—where tradition, wealth, and privacy define everyday life—a brutal crime shattered the illusion of safety. John and Geraldine “Jack and Jeri” Magee were found murdered inside their home, leaving behind a case filled with unanswered questions. In Part One of The Mansion Murders, we begin to unravel the timeline—and explore the allure and fabric of Andover itself, where prestige runs deep and secrets don’t always stay hidden. More than a decade later… the case remains unsolved. Part Two: Drops Tuesday, May 5th, 2026. Contributors: Lillian Montalto of Lillian Montalto Signature Properties International https://www.andoverhomes.com/ (https://www.andoverhomes.com/), Bob Ward – Boston 25 News, Julia Cowley – retired FBI Profiler and host of The Consult: Real FBI Profilers https://www.truecrimeconsult.com/ (https://www.truecrimeconsult.com/)

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

4.0 / 5

11 ratings

Spotify

4.3 / 5

6 ratings

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