Deadly Sanctuary
- Aug 3, 2022
- 39:21
- Full Episode
In this Dateline classic, a congregation copes with shock and suspicion as investigators search for answers to the death of a female parishioner in the office of a country church. Keith Morrison reports. Originally aired on NBC on February 20, 2009.
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Brief Summary
The murder of Rhonda Smith in a church leads to an investigation revealing jealousy and obsession among church members, culminating in Mary Jane Fonder's arrest.
Key points
- The New Pastor's Arrival. Pastor Greg Shreves arrives in a small town, bringing hope and community spirit.
- A Shocking Discovery. Judy Zellner finds a body in the church office, sparking chaos and fear.
- The Investigation Begins. Detectives uncover the mystery surrounding Rhonda Smith's shooting and the church's dark secrets.
- Mary Jane's Obsession. Mary Jane Fonder's feelings for Pastor Shreves complicate the investigation into Rhonda's death.
- The Search for the Gun. Investigators search for a gun linked to the murder, leading to unexpected revelations.
- Mary Jane's Alibi. Mary Jane's wig left at the salon raises questions about her alibi.
Episode highlights
- The New Pastor's ArrivalPastor Greg Shreves arrives in a small town, bringing hope and community spirit.“He's a wonderful pastor.”1:02Aug 3, 2022
- A Shocking DiscoveryJudy Zellner finds a body in the church office, sparking chaos and fear.“There's a girl murdered in our office.”7:09Aug 3, 2022
- The Investigation BeginsDetectives uncover the mystery surrounding Rhonda Smith's shooting and the church's dark secrets.“Who had a motive to kill Rhonda Smith?”16:00Aug 3, 2022
- Mary Jane's ObsessionMary Jane Fonder's feelings for Pastor Shreves complicate the investigation into Rhonda's death.“It's such a terrible thing.”22:59Aug 3, 2022
- The Search for the GunInvestigators search for a gun linked to the murder, leading to unexpected revelations.“Did you really expect to find it?”23:51Aug 3, 2022
- Mary Jane's AlibiMary Jane's wig left at the salon raises questions about her alibi.“Did Mary Jane leave the wig to support her alibi? Maybe.”24:35Aug 3, 2022
- Gunpowder EvidenceTesting reveals gunpowder residue in Mary Jane's car, complicating the investigation.“They found gunpowder residue in three places.”26:38Aug 3, 2022
- The DiscoveryA boy fishing discovers a gun in the lake, leading to a breakthrough in the case.“I saw the handle of a gun sticking out of the water.”27:10Aug 3, 2022






