UPDATE: Lowcountry Bombshell: Murdaugh Convictions Overturned

Chapter 29: Too Young to Die

Fifteen-year-old Sydney thought she was home alone after a long day at school. But when unfamiliar footsteps echoed through the house, her world changed forever. Dragged from beneath her bed by two armed intruders, Sydney endured unimaginable violence as they searched her home for money. Bound, assaulted, and shot, she refused to believe her story would end there. With nothing left but instinct and determination, Sydney made a split-second decision that would save her life. This is not just a story of survival—it's a story of courage, resilience, and a young girl who refused to let evil have the final word. ⚠️ Listener Warning: This episode contains discussions of home invasion, sexual assault, and violence that may be disturbing to some listeners. Please take care of yourself and skip this episode if needed.

Chapter 28: The True Story of The Conjuring

Before The Conjuring terrified audiences around the world, there was the real-life Perron family. In 1971, Roger and Carolyn Perron moved their five daughters into a centuries-old farmhouse in Harrisville, Rhode Island. Almost immediately, they claimed to experience unexplained phenomena—shadow figures, strange noises, moving furniture, foul odors, and terrifying encounters that would eventually bring famed paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren to their doorstep. But how much of the blockbuster horror film actually happened? In this episode, we'll separate Hollywood fiction from the real story, explore the Perron family's alleged haunting, examine the Warrens' investigation, and uncover what happened during the infamous séance that ended their involvement with the family. We'll also look at where the movie took creative liberties, what became of the famous farmhouse, and who owns it today. So...do you believe the hauntings were real? Be sure to vote in this episode's Spotify poll and let me know what you think.

Chapter 27: Athena Strand - The Strength of 100 Men

On November 30, 2022, 7-year-old Athena Strand disappeared from her family’s property in Wise County, Texas. What began as a normal evening at home quickly turned into every parent’s worst nightmare. Athena was a free spirit who loved climbing trees, riding horses, talking a little too much in class, and spending time with her family. She was tough, independent, and fiercely loved by everyone who knew her. In this episode, we explore Athena’s life, the desperate search to bring her home, the horrifying truth of what happened, and the sentencing trial that revealed the details of her final moments. We also look at the impact Athena’s loss had on her family, her classmates, her community, and the lasting legacy her mother has built in her name. This episode contains discussion of child abduction, sexual assault, and murder and may not be suitable for all listeners. If you would like to support Athena’s legacy, please consider learning more about Athena Strand’s Army and the work being done in her honor. 💗 In memory of Athena Presley Monroe Strand May 23, 2015 – November 30, 2022

Chapter 26: Kendrick Johnson: The Teen Who Never Made It Home

On January 11, 2013, 17-year-old Kendrick Johnson left for school at Lowndes High in Valdosta, Georgia… and never came home. Hours later, Kendrick’s body was discovered upside down inside a rolled-up wrestling mat in the school’s old gymnasium. Authorities quickly ruled his death a tragic accident. But for Kendrick’s family, the evidence never added up. In this episode we dive into the haunting and highly controversial death of Kendrick Johnson — the conflicting autopsies, missing surveillance footage, rumors of a cover-up, allegations of racism and corruption, and the questions that continue to divide the public more than a decade later. Was this a freak accident… or something far darker? Listener discretion is advised due to discussions of death and graphic details. Follow, rate, and share The Girl in the Dark wherever you listen to podcasts.

UPDATE: Lowcountry Bombshell: Murdaugh Convictions Overturned

The Murdaugh saga is far from over. In a shocking decision, the South Carolina Supreme Court has overturned Alex Murdaugh’s 2023 murder convictions in the killings of his wife Maggie and son Paul, ordering a brand new trial after allegations of jury tampering and misconduct involving former court clerk Becky Hill. In this breaking update episode of The Girl in the Dark: 🕯️ Why the convictions were overturned 🕯️ Becky Hill’s criminal charges and controversy 🕯️ What happens next for Alex Murdaugh 🕯️ Why a retrial could heavily benefit the defense 🕯️ The emotional fallout for the surviving Murdaugh family The battle lines are being drawn once again in the Lowcountry… and the world is watching. Follow, rate, and share The Girl in the Dark wherever you listen to podcasts.