Episode 297
- Jun 2, 2025
- 1:11:50
- Full Episode
On June 5th, 1994, a young woman and her dog stumbled upon a dismembered torso behind a gas station dumpster in a quiet Florida town, setting off an investigation that would span decades. As the case went cold, a dark figure remained hidden in plain sight, only to resurface years later. When a missing person’s flier related to the disappearance of 16-year-old Fred Laster sparked new interest, a shocking family connection led detectives to a seemingly upstanding youth pastor with a sinister past.<br /><br />Get instant access to all episodes, including premium unreleased episodes, commercial-free at swordandscale.com
Brief Summary
The episode details the murder of Fred Laster and the investigation leading to Ron Hyde's conviction for dismembering the teen in 1994.
Key points
- Cold Case Reopened. In 2010, DNA advancements lead to a re-examination of evidence from a 1994 murder.
- Gruesome Discovery Behind Gas Station. A woman finds a dismembered torso behind a dumpster, shocking the local community.
- Family Connection to the Victim. Fred Laster's family uncovers a chilling link to a trusted acquaintance, Ron Hyde.
- The Manipulative Mentor. Hyde ingratiates himself with the Lasters, acting as a mentor to their children.
- The Shifting Story. Hyde's explanations for Fred's disappearance change constantly, raising family suspicions.
- The Arrest. After a lengthy interrogation, Hyde is arrested for the murder of Fred Laster.
Episode highlights
- Cold Case ReopenedIn 2010, DNA advancements lead to a re-examination of evidence from a 1994 murder.“Advancements in DNA testing led investigators to re-examine the items from the crime scene.”13:55Jun 2, 2025
- Gruesome Discovery Behind Gas StationA woman finds a dismembered torso behind a dumpster, shocking the local community.“The gruesome find sent shockwaves through the small Florida community.”17:42Jun 2, 2025
- Family Connection to the VictimFred Laster's family uncovers a chilling link to a trusted acquaintance, Ron Hyde.“Fred's family revealed that Hyde drove a dark-colored Camaro, similar to the one spotted at the crime scene.”18:42Jun 2, 2025
- The Manipulative MentorHyde ingratiates himself with the Lasters, acting as a mentor to their children.“These outsiders know exactly what they're doing.”32:14Jun 2, 2025
- The Shifting StoryHyde's explanations for Fred's disappearance change constantly, raising family suspicions.“Convenient.”40:04Jun 2, 2025
- The ArrestAfter a lengthy interrogation, Hyde is arrested for the murder of Fred Laster.“You have a murder warrant for your arrest right now.”52:49Jun 2, 2025
- The Long-Awaited TrialAfter decades of evasion, Ron Hyde finally faced trial for the murder of Fred Laster.“Following a four-day trial, the jury deliberated for only a few hours before returning with their unanimous verdict.”1:05:44Jun 2, 2025
- Ron Hyde's Dark PastRon Hyde, once a community leader, was charged with multiple counts of child abuse and murder.“Hyde used his status in the church to disguise his disgusting sexual interest in children.”1:06:44Jun 2, 2025
