Return to the Lake
- Feb 18, 2025
- 1:23:19
- Full Episode
<p>Exclusive new details in the case of Susan Smith, who murdered her two young boys in 1994. Craig Melvin speaks with David Smith about his ex-wife’s recent attempt to be released from prison.</p><p>Craig Melvin and Josh Mankiewicz go behind the scenes of the making of this episode in ‘Talking Dateline’</p><p>Listen on Apple: https://apple.co/3Qp5q7l</p><p>Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6xSyGrJDc8FdlonPPNxwSW</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
Susan Smith confesses to murdering her children, sparking national outrage and ongoing legal battles over her potential parole.
Key points
- A mother's unthinkable crime. The case of Susan Smith reveals a shocking crime that captivated a nation.
- The search for Michael and Alex. A nationwide manhunt ensues for two missing boys, gripping the country.
- A glimmer of hope. A sighting of a boy matching Alex's description brings renewed hope to the search.
- The Investigation Intensifies. Investigators focus on Susan Smith as doubts about her story arise.
- A Shocking Confession. After days of searching, Susan admits to the unthinkable: she killed her children.
- The Trial Begins. Susan Smith's trial captivates the nation as the prosecution presents their case.
Episode highlights
- A mother's unthinkable crimeThe case of Susan Smith reveals a shocking crime that captivated a nation.“A mother's unthinkable crime. A father's unforgettable courage.”1:03Feb 18, 2025
- The search for Michael and AlexA nationwide manhunt ensues for two missing boys, gripping the country.“A nationwide manhunt with a heartbreaking end.”2:07Feb 18, 2025
- A glimmer of hopeA sighting of a boy matching Alex's description brings renewed hope to the search.“A call came into the command center, a sighting of a young boy...”24:07Feb 18, 2025
- The Investigation IntensifiesInvestigators focus on Susan Smith as doubts about her story arise.“Not everything checked out.”27:08Feb 18, 2025
- A Shocking ConfessionAfter days of searching, Susan admits to the unthinkable: she killed her children.“Susan Smith finally told the truth.”37:59Feb 18, 2025
- The Trial BeginsSusan Smith's trial captivates the nation as the prosecution presents their case.“Her handwritten confession made that clear.”46:10Feb 18, 2025
- Susan's Emotional LetterIn a letter, Susan expresses her grief and acknowledges her horrible decision.“I am not a horrible person, Carol. I'm a human being who made a horrible decision.”1:07:24Feb 18, 2025
- David's Heartfelt TestimonyDavid shares his pain and anger during Susan's parole hearing, emphasizing her choice to kill.“This wasn't a tragic mistake. It wasn't something that she didn't mean to do.”1:15:36Feb 18, 2025
