The Mysterious Story of Larry Bader
Stuff You Should Know
Deep Dive
Why did Larry Bader disappear in 1957?
Larry Bader disappeared under mysterious circumstances after a fishing trip on Lake Erie. He was caught in a severe storm, and his boat was later found damaged but without him. Theories range from a tragic accident to a deliberate escape, but the true reason remains unknown.
What was Larry Bader's financial situation before his disappearance?
Larry Bader was earning the equivalent of $120,000 a year as a cookware salesman, which was twice the median income at the time. However, he was $2,400 in debt, had a hefty mortgage, and had not paid taxes for five years, which added significant financial pressure.
What evidence suggested Larry Bader might have faked his death?
Larry Bader had recently increased his life insurance policy to include a payout for accidental death, cashed a $400 check (equivalent to $4,000 today), and took a suitcase with him on the day he disappeared, which raised suspicions of a staged disappearance.
How did Larry Bader reappear after his disappearance?
Three days after his disappearance, Larry Bader resurfaced in Omaha, Nebraska, under the name John Johnson, also known as Fritz. He claimed to be a Navy veteran with a new identity and began living a flamboyant lifestyle, working as a DJ and archery champion.
What was the reaction when Larry Bader's true identity was revealed?
When Larry Bader's identity was confirmed through fingerprint matching, his life unraveled. He lost his job, his marriage was annulled, and he was forced to repay insurance and social security benefits. His family and new wife were left in turmoil, and he moved into a YMCA, working at a bar to support both families.
What medical condition might explain Larry Bader's behavior?
Larry Bader may have experienced a dissociative fugue, a rare condition causing sudden and significant memory loss. This could explain his new identity and lack of recollection of his past life. The condition is often triggered by stress or trauma, such as his financial struggles or the storm on Lake Erie.
What happened to Larry Bader after his identity was revealed?
After his identity was revealed, Larry Bader's life fell apart. He lost his job, his marriage was annulled, and he was forced to repay insurance and social security benefits. He moved into a YMCA and worked at a bar, sending most of his earnings to support his two families. He died of cancer in 1966.
What was the significance of Larry Bader's boat being found?
Larry Bader's boat was found with life jackets on board, a bent propeller, and some scratches, but it was not capsized or sunk. The gas line was disconnected or the gas cans were empty, but there was no evidence of a struggle or distress, leaving his disappearance a mystery.
Shownotes Transcript