Forensic Files

Mysterious and creepy letters torment a close-knit family

Casefile

  • Nov 4, 2023
  • 42:43
  • Full Episode

Case 266: Circleville Letter Writer

In March 1977, school bus driver Mary Gillespie started receiving threatening letters delivered to her home in Circleville, Ohio. It wasn’t long before her husband, Ron Gillespie, also received the letters which accused Mary of having an affair with the local school superintendent, Gordon Massie.

When Mary Gillespie found a threatening sign hung from a fence post on her school bus route, she tore it down, only to find a booby trap inside, designed to kill her. Who wanted to target Mary? Investigation of the booby trap pointed to a prime suspect close to home, her brother-in-law Paul Freshour.

CREDITS

Narration – Anonymous Host Research & writing – Jessica Forsayeth Creative direction – Milly Raso Production and music – Mike Migas Music – Andrew D.B. Joslyn

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RESOURCES

For all credits and sources, please visit https://casefilepodcast.com/case-266-circleville-letter-writer

Brief Summary

The Circleville letters harassed Mary Gillespie, leading to her husband's mysterious death and a controversial trial of her brother-in-law Paul Freshour.

Key points

  • The First Letter. Mary Gillespie receives a threatening letter warning her about her alleged affair.
  • Escalation of Threats. The letter writer becomes more aggressive, threatening Mary and her daughter.
  • Tragic Accident. Ron Gillespie dies in a mysterious car accident after receiving a call from the letter writer.
  • The Booby Trap. Mary discovers a deadly booby trap designed to kill her.
  • Family Ties. The investigation leads to shocking revelations about Mary's brother-in-law.
  • Paul Freshour's Trial. Paul Freshour was found guilty of attempted murder after a trial based on circumstantial evidence.

Tension

75/ 100High tension

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