The Ghost of Mary Ann Cotton
Scared To Death
Deep Dive
Why is Mary Ann Cotton considered one of the most prolific serial killers in English history?
Mary Ann Cotton, convicted in 1872, is suspected of poisoning around 21 people, including three husbands and approximately a dozen of her own children, primarily for financial gain like insurance payouts.
Why did Mary Ann Cotton likely poison her victims?
Arsenic poisoning was suspected due to its undetectable nature in 19th-century autopsies, readily available access, and symptoms (cramping, shortness of breath, diarrhea) easily mistaken for common illnesses.
Why was Mary Ann Cotton's execution controversial?
It was botched intentionally with a shorter rope than usual, causing a slow death by strangulation instead of a quick break of the neck.
Why is the bench at 20 Johnson Terrace in West Auckland considered haunted?
It's believed to be the site of one of Mary Ann Cotton's residences, and people report a dark presence, sudden chills, and apparitions of children playing nearby.
Why did the paranormal investigation at Mary Ann Cotton's last residence end abruptly?
Investigators reported experiencing physical symptoms akin to arsenic poisoning, leading to fears for their safety and the termination of the investigation.
Why is the radio show "La Mano Peluda" named after a hairy hand?
It's named after a Latin American legend about a wrongfully accused man whose severed hand seeks revenge from beyond the grave, grabbing victims and killing them.
Why did Josue Velasquez summon a demon?
He sought wealth and used an occult ritual involving blood sacrifice, escalating from small offerings to eventually sacrificing his own grandmother.
Why did Juan Ramon Sainz, host of "La Mano Peluda," die suddenly?
Officially, peritonitis caused by bacteria. However, it's speculated he was a victim of Josue Velasquez's demonic deal, potentially as a substitute for Josue's own life, given the sudden deaths of others involved.
Why did the anonymous story sender's mother stop beating them in the kitchen?
A sudden loud crash of pans falling out of a closed cupboard, seemingly by themselves, startled the mother and allowed the sender to escape.
Why does the anonymous sender believe their deceased father was protecting them?
Several unexplained events occurred during times of distress: falling pans during abuse, a comforting hand during an anorexia episode, and Ben falling down the stairs after becoming violent. The elderly woman's mention of the sender's father and his love for brownies further solidified this belief.
Shownotes Transcript