SPOON RIVER GOTHIC PODCAST

Season Two: “DEATH RIDES THE HIGHWAY”

A Cross-Country Thrill Ride Fueled by Murder & Terror!

The Motive of this cross-county killing spree at its heart: storytelling.

And though this horrid crime is true, the story was birthed by imagination, as the characters, the players involved, created their own characters and then took to the road to not only discover but reign down their preferred setting. Then, through one unspeakable, vile act after another, these characters wrote a story of adventure—an adventure only those characters could possibly have dreamed of. Set free in a world...

Cory Zimmerman and Radio Vérité Present the Literary, Long-form, True Crime Podcast SPOON RIVER GOTHIC

Season One: "NARRATIVE of a DOUBLE HOMICIDE"

A True Crime Saga Revealing a Mystery of Romance, Obsession & Terror. The Borders of the Puzzle - Arson & Murder!

A HAUNTING TALE - The perplexing double homicide of mother and child unfolding against a vivid backdrop of a quaint, midwestern town—the story kicks off with the chilling discovery of Donna and Justine Tompkins' lifeless bodies in their fire-ravaged home on a frigid morning in January 1993. As investigators feverishly search for...

Cory Zimmerman and Radio Vérité Present the Literary, Long-form, True Crime Podcast SPOON RIVER GOTHIC

Season One: "NARRATIVE of a DOUBLE HOMICIDE"

A True Crime Saga Revealing a Mystery of Romance, Obsession & Terror. The Borders of the Puzzle - Arson & Murder!

A HAUNTING TALE - The perplexing double homicide of mother and child unfolding against a vivid backdrop of a quaint, midwestern town—the story kicks off with the chilling discovery of Donna and Justine Tompkins' lifeless bodies in their fire-ravaged home on a frigid morning in January 1993. As investigators feverishly search for...

Cory Zimmerman and Radio Vérité Present the Literary, Long-form, True Crime Podcast SPOON RIVER GOTHIC

Season One: "NARRATIVE of a DOUBLE HOMICIDE"

A True Crime Saga Revealing a Mystery of Romance, Obsession & Terror. The Borders of the Puzzle - Arson & Murder!

A HAUNTING TALE - The perplexing double homicide of mother and child unfolding against a vivid backdrop of a quaint, midwestern town—the story kicks off with the chilling discovery of Donna and Justine Tompkins' lifeless bodies in their fire-ravaged home on a frigid morning in January 1993. As investigators feverishly search for...

Cory Zimmerman and Radio Vérité Present the Literary, Long-form, True Crime Podcast SPOON RIVER GOTHIC

Season One: "NARRATIVE of a DOUBLE HOMICIDE"

A True Crime Saga Revealing a Mystery of Romance, Obsession & Terror. The Borders of the Puzzle - Arson & Murder!

A HAUNTING TALE - The perplexing double homicide of mother and child unfolding against a vivid backdrop of a quaint, midwestern town—the story kicks off with the chilling discovery of Donna and Justine Tompkins' lifeless bodies in their fire-ravaged home on a frigid morning in January 1993. As investigators feverishly search for...

A legal landscape.

We explore the intricate legal maneuvers, testimonies, and controversies that emerge during Donnie Bull's interactions with Canton Police officers, mainly focusing on his allegations of coercion and rights violation against them. The story highlights the importance of upholding constitutional rights, including the rights advisement process—Miranda Rights—in criminal investigations and trials, revealing the tensions and contradictions that arise during Bull's contentious encounters with law enforcement.

We also delve into a common theme within the trial- public perception and the pursuit of justice- exploring the evolving public perception of Donnie and how this...

A fire hazard.

Canton has a long history of enduring disasters, all of which, again and again, have disrupted the idyllic nature of small-town living, some more tragic than others. Through a meticulous exploration of domestic fire risks, from historical Victorian homes to the hidden dangers of synthetic materials in modern houses, we explore a compelling reminder of the ever-present threat of fires and the importance of holistic fire safety education. We will delve into Canton's rich historical backdrop, reflecting on its remarkable resilience in the face of these numerous calamities and the pivotal role played by...

A public affair.

The circumstances surrounding Donnie Bull's arrest, with its lack of discretion as an open spectacle, highlight a significant and complex issue in the criminal justice system. We delve into the ramifications of public displays during the arrest process and how they can potentially influence public sentiment and an individual's right to a fair trial.

Judicial impartiality is a cornerstone of the justice system. Judges are expected to approach each case with an open mind, devoid of personal biases, and with an unwavering commitment to delivering justice based solely on the merits of...

Welcome to Hell.

We dive into several accounts from inmates on death row, as they appear in letters written from Death Row. Death Row inmates describe the extreme confinement conditions they face, 23 hours a day in 6x9 feet cells. These accounts offer a deeply thought-provoking insight into the human experience within a system that ultimately aims to end their lives. These narratives strike at the heart of the debate surrounding the death penalty, exposing its underlying brutality.

These accounts, shared in letters from around the country, vigorously challenge the conventional notion that society can neatly...

Today-

I will present a bonus chapter written by Spoon River Gothic co-producer Samantha Thomas. This report shall pertain to Samantha’s subjective analysis of the Defense and Prosecution team’s closing arguments during Donald Bull’s 1996 trial. “A Solemn Responsibility” by Samantha Thomas

Dr. Michael Gelbort.

Notably, Dr. Gelbort starred in the hit Netflix series "I Am a Killer," lending his expertise to the show. Dr. Gelbort assists patients by conducting interviews and coordinating testing for suspected neurological issues. His evaluations contribute essential insights for referring sources, aiding in the understanding of patients' cognitive functioning and potential interventions that could have been implemented before a crime had been committed.

A clinical neuropsychologist with a vast and impactful career, Dr. Gelbort’s role in the Donald Bull trial was to provide diagnostic and consultation services for the defense, as he...

The pursuit of closure.

Death penalty cases are a profoundly intricate and emotionally charged process with profound implications for the victims’ families and the defendants. In the case of Donald Bull Jr., his journey through the legal system underscored these complexities. Donnie's appeals, filed in May 1996, opened a new chapter in his case, revealing fundamental allegations, from improper search techniques to evidence-sharing concerns. This legal process, though fraught with intricacies, has far-reaching consequences not only for Bull but also for the victims' families, who yearn for a sense of closure and justice.

It's worth noting th...

A conversation with Ken & Alan.

Ken, the former deputy who escorted Donnie Bull to and from the courthouse each day of his trial, provides us with a fascinating juxtaposition--his impression of Donnie as calm and self-assured in the face of grave charges, starkly contrasted with Ken's own confidence in Donnie's guilt. This incongruity casts a spotlight on the nuances of human behavior and the challenges of making determinations based on appearances alone.

Perhaps the most thought-provoking element was Ken's recollection of the jury's rapid deliberation, spanning just approximately 45 minutes. This brevity raises important questions regarding...

Mr. Parkinson.

The assistant state's attorney, ardently presenting the prosecution's case with counterarguments to the defense’s closing, reminds us of the importance of recalling the complexity of Donna Tompkins' relationships with multiple male suspects. Was her relationship with them as black and white as the defense describes? While Mr. Parkinson argues his case, we must scrutinize the timeline leading up to that fateful morning—especially when comparing the original account Rod gave investigators.

Does how Mr. Parkinson describes this timeline align with Rod’s account?

And if not, wouldn’t that be a cause...

A closing argument.

McMillian, Donald Bull’s co-defense attorney, masterfully navigates the twists and turns of this complex trial, leading us toward a thought-provoking destination—engaging, challenging, and captivating us as we dissect her closing argument and consider the profound implications of this relentless pursuit of truth, justice, and the presumption of innocence. In a world where doubt can eclipse certainty, McMillian reminds us that the burden of proof rests firmly on the shoulders of those who seek to condemn.

At the heart of her case is the absence of evidence that firmly places Donnie Bull...

Cory Zimmerman and Radio Vérité Present the Literary, Long-Form, True Crime Podcast: "SPOON RIVER GOTHIC - NARRATIVE of a DOUBLE HOMICIDE"

A True Crime Saga Revealing a Mystery of Romance, Obsession & Terror. The Borders of the Puzzle - Arson & Murder!

A HAUNTING TALE - The perplexing double homicide of mother and child unfolding against a vivid backdrop of a quaint, midwestern town—the story kicks off with the chilling discovery of Donna and Justine Tompkins' lifeless bodies in their fire-ravaged home on a frigid morning in January 1993. As investigators feverishly search for clues, the narr...

The Legal Arena.

As the pursuit of justice hangs in a precarious balance, the intricacies of the Donald Bull case unravel—what reveals itself to be a gripping courtroom drama that has captivated the public’s attention.

Donnie Bull, a name etched in the annals of Canton, Illinois, history, stands, as you know, accused of a heinous crime—the murder of Donna and her daughter, Justine Tompkins. Mr. Stone, Bull's unyielding defense attorney, is at the center of this tumultuous trial. With the weight of justice on his shoulders, Mr. Stone steps up to the podium...

An intricate tapestry.

During closing arguments, the prosecution, led by the formidable Mr. Ed Danner, weaves a compelling narrative, drawing upon several critical threads of evidence. The enigmatic ring found in Donald Bull's possession is at the heart of Danner’s case. It is a piece of jewelry that seems to hold the key to a cryptic connection. The prosecution argues that this ring, belonging to Donna Tompkins, is a compelling link to her, possibly hinting at Donnie's involvement in the tragic events that unfolded.

The courtroom quivers with intrigue over a stained artifact—a jack...

The courtroom is theater.

Arriving at closing statements during a criminal trial, lives hang in the balance, and the long-awaited trial of Donald Bull is no exception. As lead prosecutor, States Attorney Ed Danner, stands before the jury, acknowledging their attentiveness, we are immediately drawn into a world where justice is paramount. The charges, “first-degree murder,” “concealment of homicidal deaths,” and “aggravated arson,” cast a long shadow over the proceedings, hinting at the gravity and weight of the case—a stark reminder that justice is not a mere abstraction, but a literal matter of life and death.

In a cour...

Cory Zimmerman and Radio Vérité Present the Literary, Long-Form, True Crime Podcast: "SPOON RIVER GOTHIC - NARRATIVE of a DOUBLE HOMICIDE"

A True Crime Saga Revealing a Mystery of Romance, Obsession & Terror. The Borders of the Puzzle - Arson & Murder!

A HAUNTING TALE - The perplexing double homicide of mother and child unfolding against a vivid backdrop of a quaint, midwestern town—the story kicks off with the chilling discovery of Donna and Justine Tompkins' lifeless bodies in their fire-ravaged home on a frigid morning in January 1993. As investigators feverishly search for clues, the narr...

Cory Zimmerman and Radio Vérité Present the Literary, Long-Form, True Crime Podcast: "SPOON RIVER GOTHIC - NARRATIVE of a DOUBLE HOMICIDE"

A True Crime Saga Revealing a Mystery of Romance, Obsession & Terror. The Borders of the Puzzle - Arson & Murder!

A HAUNTING TALE - The perplexing double homicide of mother and child unfolding against a vivid backdrop of a quaint, midwestern town—the story kicks off with the chilling discovery of Donna and Justine Tompkins' lifeless bodies in their fire-ravaged home on a frigid morning in January 1993. As investigators feverishly search for clues, the narr...

Part Three.

Alan Friedman, a seasoned legal professional who headed up Donald Bull’s clemency team, will revisit the legal labyrinth and specific aspects of the case that will take center stage—the discovery of Donnie pawning a ring; scrutiny by Friedman's law students who found inconsistencies in the case; along with other doubts he felt about the integrity of the evidence. These revelations will underscore the delicate balance between such evidence and its interpretation, highlighting how even minor details can loom large in a complex legal puzzle such as this one.

Friedman's own doubts abou...

A stark reminder.

Within every story, there's a shadow of doubt lurking. To confront this shadow, we must adopt a vigilant skepticism and a relentless pursuit of the truth. It's an arduous journey that demands we question our assumptions, scrutinize testimonies, and explore the recesses of uncertainty. We can only hope to glimpse the elusive light of justice by navigating this labyrinth of doubt with unwavering dedication.

Confirmation bias, that insidious inclination to interpret information in a way that confirms our preconceptions, is a looming specter in cases like Donna and Justine Tompkins'. That nudge...

Cory Zimmerman and Radio Vérité Present the Literary, Long-Form, True Crime Podcast: "SPOON RIVER GOTHIC - NARRATIVE of a DOUBLE HOMICIDE"

A True Crime Saga Revealing a Mystery of Romance, Obsession & Terror. The Borders of the Puzzle - Arson & Murder!

A HAUNTING TALE - The perplexing double homicide of mother and child unfolding against a vivid backdrop of a quaint, midwestern town—the story kicks off with the chilling discovery of Donna and Justine Tompkins' lifeless bodies in their fire-ravaged home on a frigid morning in January 1993. As investigators feverishly search for clues, the narr...

The world of criminal investigation.

Within a complex web of strategies and techniques, each agency threads its own path toward justice. The Donna Tompkins case serves as a captivating tableau, shedding light on the striking differences in the approaches taken by opposing agencies, juxtaposing the investigative ideals of the renowned Federal Bureau of Investigation. As we dive into the local Canton Police Department and the intricacies of their own investigative methods, a profound comparison emerges that unveils disparities and prompts us to ponder the significance of their techniques in shaping the pursuit of truth.

Enter...

Cory Zimmerman and Radio Vérité Present the Literary, Long-Form, True Crime Podcast: "SPOON RIVER GOTHIC - NARRATIVE of a DOUBLE HOMICIDE"A True Crime Saga Revealing a Mystery of Romance, Obsession & Terror. The Borders of the Puzzle - Arson & Murder!A HAUNTING TALE - The perplexing double homicide of mother and child unfolding against a vivid backdrop of a quaint, midwestern town—the story kicks off with the chilling discovery of Donna and Justine Tompkins' lifeless bodies in their fire-ravaged home on a frigid morning in January 1993. As investigators feverishly search for clues, the narrative swiftly evolves into a comp...

Cory Zimmerman and Radio Vérité Present the Literary, Long-Form, True Crime Podcast: "SPOON RIVER GOTHIC - NARRATIVE of a DOUBLE HOMICIDE"

A True Crime Saga Revealing a Mystery of Romance, Obsession & Terror. The Borders of the Puzzle - Arson & Murder!

A HAUNTING TALE - The perplexing double homicide of mother and child unfolding against a vivid backdrop of a quaint, midwestern town—the story kicks off with the chilling discovery of Donna and Justine Tompkins' lifeless bodies in their fire-ravaged home on a frigid morning in January 1993. As investigators feverishly search for clues, the narr...

A Look back at those early suspicions.

Conversations with former Canton police officer Rusty Graham, again, offer a unique look into a first-hand account of that tragic January morning in 1993. Communications with firefighters and fellow officers on scene indicated that the circumstances surrounding the fire were far from ordinary, as the fire commander's observations gave birth to a sense of intrigue—a clue that this wasn't a mere accident. Back in early January 1993, in a town where crimes were few and far between, the puzzle pieces of suspicion were slowly coming together.

As the investigation pr...

A contrasting depiction of Donald Bull.

Donnie’s letters and newspaper articles paint a complex picture of a man entangled in legal battles and personal struggles. In his letters, Bull appears defiant and assertive about his innocence. He expresses frustration towards the police, alleging interference in his correspondence and manipulation of his letters as evidence. This portrays him as a person who firmly believes in his own innocence and is ready to fight against perceived injustice. On the other hand, the newspaper articles present a more troubled image of Donnie. He is portrayed as being involved in a...

“KANSAS CARNAGE CAME BY WAY OF SEWER PIPE”

Many people who populate this storybook chunk of American heartland with the endlessly straight rows of corn, neatly painted barns, and carefully tended fences call the highway just outside of town “the sewer pipe.” Late last week, death flowed into northwestern Kansas through that “sewer pipe,” which most other Americans know as Interstate 70, during a two-hour nightmare of screaming tires, hostage-taking, executions, and gunfighting. When the last shot was fired almost precisely at sundown Wednesday, four people were dead, two had been severely wounded, and three suspects were in police custo...

“KANSAS CARNAGE CAME BY WAY OF SEWER PIPE”Many people who populate this storybook chunk of American heartland with the endlessly straight rows of corn, neatly painted barns, and carefully tended fences call the highway just outside of town “the sewer pipe.”Late last week, death flowed into northwestern Kansas through that “sewer pipe,” which most other Americans know as Interstate 70, during a two-hour nightmare of screaming tires, hostage-taking, executions, and gunfighting.When the last shot was fired almost precisely at sundown Wednesday, four people were dead, two had been severely wounded, and three suspects were in police custody.Signs of carnage s...

Jeff Grigsby.

During Jeff’s time in jail, he shared a cell with Donnie Bull. Through Jeff's experience, we gain invaluable insights that shed light on the complexity of Donnie’s character and potential flaws in the justice system.

Jeff was born in Canton, Illinois, and possesses a personal connection to the story. Having spent those long hours and days in jail with Donnie, his perspective offers a unique lens through which we can view the man behind the headlines. Jeff and Donnie’s backgrounds and upbringings in Canton laid the foundation for their interactions with o...

The heart of an intricate puzzle.

Donna and Justine Tompkins’ case grows more compelling through the interviews conducted with individuals who crossed paths with Donald R. Bull. The whispers of Donnie’s involvement in the tragic events highlight the complex interplay of human psychology, behavior, and the haunting influence of drugs and alcohol. These interviews provide a unique lens through which to explore the multifaceted personality of Donnie Bull, particularly the role that his relationship with alcohol played in this enigma.

The interviews paint a picture of two distinct personalities residing within Donnie. When sober, he i...

A conversation with Bruce.

Local historian Bruce Weirauch, who runs a Facebook page dedicated to Fulton County's history—we gain insights into his experience of encountering pushback from the community due to his coverage of historical cases, much like we’ve dealt with the Donald Bull and Donna Tompkins case. He recounts how discussing matters like Janice May, who was murdered in the 50s, and how he unintentionally stirred more controversy than anticipated, resulting in accusations of altering narratives. But like Spoon River Gothic, Bruce emphasizes that his only intention was to present facts rather than opinions and...

Spoon River Gothic | Narrative of a Double Homicide.

A long-form podcast hosted by Cory Zimmerman.

On an icy morning in 1993, an old house beside a pair of rusty tracks burst into flames.

And when the charred remains of 30-year-old Donna Tompkins and her 3-year-old daughter, Justine, were discovered, their deaths were ruled a homicide, and a manhunt ensued. In association with CZ Studios and Radio Vérité, Lone Bird Media presents a literary podcast. Follow along with me, your host, Cory Zimmerman, as I uncover a myriad of romance, obsession, and terror. This is...

The ex-girlfriend.

Preferring to remain anonymous, an ex-lover of Donald Bull’s expresses concerns about being on the record due to the rough crowd she is associated with, mentioning that some of her friends and acquaintances believe Donnie is innocent, though preferring to maintain a low profile to avoid getting involved with any further drama, especially considering her job caring for elderly and disabled individuals. She shares her challenging life circumstances, including leaving a painful alcoholic relationship before Donnie and raising three daughters, one of whom is in the midst of a teenage pregnancy.

She de...

Investigative thinking.

During the criminal inquiry into Donna and Justine Tompkins' double homicide, investigators face the daunting task of sifting through a labyrinth of evidence and testimonies to uncover even a resemblance of truth. As they navigate the complexities of such a daunting examination, a crucial distinction emerges: The difference between investigative tasks and investigative thinking.

While the former involves gathering and processing information, the latter demands a profound, unbiased, and introspective approach. Investigative thinking is the lifeblood of any successful criminal investigation—as it transcends the mere collection of facts—demanding a relentless pursuit of t...

The accounts of Marie and Iona.

We confront Donald Bull's deeply troubling past—a history that includes prior convictions, including rape, which raises concerns about his capacity for violence and wrongdoing. Marie, who lived across the street from Donnie, did not know his previous conviction when he moved in nearby. Understandably, such information might have altered her perception of him, but what's fascinating is how personal experiences and public knowledge can coexist in shaping one's judgment. Marie's sister dated Donnie Bull briefly, and it wasn't a smooth sailing relationship, either. We learn that anger and aggression were pr...

The enigmatic suspect.

As the plot thickens, authorities interview multiple individuals connected to who has emerged as the prime suspect, Donnie Bull. The interviews bring to light a maze of inconsistencies, raising questions about the reliability of witnesses and the true motives behind the crime. In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the complexities of the case and explore the intriguing possibilities that lie beneath the surface.

At the heart of any investigation are the witness testimonies, which often serve as crucial building blocks to reconstruct the puzzle of events. However, the recent interviews reveal...

Venture into the realm of human response.

Through concepts such as “change” and “questioning” —particularly in the context of the revived investigation into the Donna and Justine Tompkins case, as we dissect the layers of emotions and reactions sparked by reevaluating an ostensibly closed case—we explore the psychological mechanisms that compel individuals to defend their comfort zones and resist confronting unsettling truths.

Delving into the analogy of unearthing a long-buried case like Donnie Bull's, we navigate the multifaceted dimensions of fear, anger, and defensive tactics that communities may employ when confronted with the prospect of change. B...