4. Bodies of Evidence

Beyond Recognition: The First Modern Murder

Content Warning: This episode contains dramatic recreations of historical scenes and depictions of violence that some listeners may find disturbing. Please take care when listening. The words spoken by the actors are taken from letters, diary entries, legal transcripts, and period newspaper interviews.

Peter Rogerson is desperate and furious. His sister Mary, the Ruxton family’s nanny, has been missing for nearly two weeks. Peter, defying social norms, confronts Dr. Buck Ruxton at his doorstep, demanding answers. Despite Ruxton's attempts to deflect him with tales of theft and a trip to Scotland for an illegal abortion, Peter is not convinced. He fears something terrible has happened and that Ruxton is behind it. Meanwhile, top forensic experts in the UK have begun to unmask the identities of the dismembered bodies discovered in a Scottish ravine. Using groundbreaking techniques, they piece together a puzzle as complex as any in the history of modern forensic science. And, in doing so, they begin to find a tragic answer to Peter Rogerson’s desperate query.

"Beyond Recognition" hosted by Yeardley Smith, delves into one of the most shocking murder cases of the early 20th century. With insights from experts like Tom Wood, Paul Holes, and Professor Sue Black, this episode not only recounts the gruesome details but also examines the psychological and forensic aspects of the case. To support the series go to smalltowndicks.com/superfam

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