Deep Dive
What were the key pieces of circumstantial evidence that led investigators to suspect Piper Roundtree in Fred Jablin's murder?
Investigators found an airline ticket, two wigs, and gas purchased in the area, all linked to a credit card in the name of Piper’s former boyfriend. These items suggested Piper may have used her sister's identity to plot the murder.
Why did Fred Jablin and Piper Roundtree's marriage deteriorate after moving to Virginia?
Piper missed her family in Texas and felt isolated in Virginia. The move strained their relationship, leading to separate lives and eventual divorce. Piper also faced health issues, including a ruptured ectopic pregnancy, which shifted her focus to being a full-time mom.
What was the outcome of Fred Jablin and Piper Roundtree's custody battle?
Fred won full custody of their three children, and Piper was ordered to pay nearly $900 a month in child support. The judge ruled in Fred's favor, citing Piper's instability and financial issues.
How did Piper Roundtree attempt to establish her alibi for the day of Fred Jablin's murder?
Piper claimed she was in Houston, Texas, at the time of the murder. She provided witnesses, including a bartender and a lawyer friend, who confirmed her presence in Houston on the night before and the afternoon of the murder.
What role did Piper Roundtree's sister, Tina, play in the investigation?
Tina was a key figure due to her close relationship with Piper. Investigators discovered Tina had flown to Virginia two days before the murder and returned to Houston on the day of the crime. Tina's loyalty to Piper and her hostility toward Fred raised suspicions about her involvement.
What were the circumstances of Fred Jablin's murder?
Fred was shot three times in his driveway while retrieving his morning newspaper. The bullets entered through his back, suggesting he was shot from behind. The crime occurred in a quiet suburban neighborhood in Richmond, Virginia, on October 30, 2004.
How did Fred Jablin's children react to his murder?
Fred's three children, aged 12, 10, and 15, were asleep in the house during the murder. They were quickly removed from the scene to avoid witnessing their father's body. They were later taken to a neighbor's home and informed of their father's death.
What was Detective Kobe Kelly's theory about Fred Jablin's murder?
Detective Kelly believed Fred may have known his killer, as he was shot in the back after a possible confrontation. The crime scene suggested Fred was lured back toward his house before being shot.
Why did Piper Roundtree move back to Texas after her divorce?
Piper struggled to find work in Virginia after failing the bar exam and was ordered to pay child support. She moved to Texas to secure employment and support herself financially, leaving her children in Fred's custody.
What was the relationship between Piper Roundtree and her sister Tina?
Piper and Tina were extremely close, often described as 'soul sisters.' They spoke multiple times a day and supported each other emotionally. Tina was fiercely protective of Piper, especially during her divorce and custody battle with Fred.
- Fred Jablin, a college professor, was shot and killed in his driveway.
- The murder took place on a quiet morning.
- Neighbors heard gunshots and reported seeing someone running away.
- Police discovered Fred Jablin's three children unharmed in the house.
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