Forensic Files

Deadly Valentine

Dateline NBC

  • Sep 18, 2021
  • 1:23:43
  • Full Episode
Synchronizing the audio with the ad breaks and transcriptThis takes a brief moment, please wait.

<p>A missionary's wife and mother of three is found dead in her house on Valentine's Day. As authorities investigate, questions surrounding the murder hit close to home. Andrea Canning has chosen this episode as one of her most memorable classic episodes.</p><p> </p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>

Brief Summary

Nathan Luthold was convicted of murdering his wife Denise on Valentine's Day 2013, driven by an affair with a young exchange student.

Key points

  • The Shocking Discovery. Nathan Luthold discovers a break-in at his home, leading to a horrifying revelation.
  • Community in Shock. The quiet town of Peoria grapples with the fallout of a brutal murder.
  • Nathan's Emotional Struggle. Nathan grapples with explaining his wife's death to their children, showcasing his deep sorrow.
  • Suspicious Circumstances. Detectives uncover inconsistencies in Nathan's story, raising doubts about his innocence.
  • Uncovering Dark Secrets. Nathan's internet search history reveals disturbing thoughts, suggesting premeditated intentions.
  • Nathan's Arrest. Three weeks after Denise's murder, Nathan Luthold is arrested, shocking those who knew him.

Tension

85/ 100High tension

More from Dateline NBC

Solve the Crime

Read a real case one clue at a time, then see how your call held up against the investigators.

Start a Case

Join Team Forensic Files

Regular case drops, breaking crime news, and podcast premieres, straight to your inbox.

or

Forgot your password?