Episode
The Big Story: Murder and the Frustrated Father (EP4957)
- Published
- Apr 21, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 2009
- Processing state
processed
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Summary
A crime reporter races to cover a sensational murder in Kansas City involving a father driven to violence by jealousy. The investigation follows the frantic search for a killer hiding in plain sight.
Topics
- Old Time Radio
- Crime Drama
- Journalism
- Kansas City
- Murder Mystery
- 1950s Radio
- Police Investigation
Highlights
- Main idea: A jealous father's refusal to accept his daughter's engagement leads to a fatal domestic tragedy
- Main idea: The narrative follows Sam Melnick, a United Press reporter, as he tracks a manhunt through Kansas City
- Failure mode: The killer's attempt to evade capture fails when he inadvertently reveals his location via a phone call to a relative
- Practical takeaway: The story highlights the high-stakes atmosphere of mid-century crime journalism and police work
- Main idea: The investigation concludes with a tragic confrontation and a self-inflicted wound by the perpetrator
Chapters
1:00Introduction: Host Adam Graham introduces the episode and promotes related old-time radio series.3:30Domestic Calm: A brief moment of normalcy as Sam Melnick discusses dinner plans with his mother.5:40The Secret Engagement: A young couple attempts to navigate a clandestine meeting to avoid a strict father.8:10Rising Tension: The father, Albert Norton, confronts the young man, signaling an impending conflict.15:20The Breaking News: A murder is reported in Kansas City, prompting Sam Melnick to rush to the police headquarters.20:00The Investigation: Police and reporters search for the killer, who is believed to be hiding within the city.25:00The Conclusion: The manhunt ends as the killer's identity and fate are revealed through a final telegram.