Forensic Files

Talking Dateline: The Bluegrass Mystery

Dateline NBC

  • Jul 15, 2026
  • 27:20
  • Full Episode
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<p>Andrea Canning sits down with Blayne Alexander to discuss her episode “The Bluegrass Mystery.” In October 2019, Glenn Jackson reported his wife, Ella, missing. The next day, her adult son, Phillip, did the same. After interviewing Glenn, Phillip, and Ella's ex-husband and close friend, Jason Hans, investigators focused on Glenn, based on his odd behavior and Ella's own words. Test results confirmed their thinking, and police arrested Glenn. But just before trial, a discovery changed everything. Blayne shares an exclusive clip with one of Ella's friends, who remembers her as a devoted mother to her young son, Alex. Blayne and Andrea also discuss the surprising and touching outcome for Alex after his mother’s death. Plus, we answer your questions from social media.</p> <p>Have a question for Talking Dateline? DM us @DatelineNBC or leave a voicemail at (212) 413-5252. Your question could be featured in an upcoming episode.</p> <p>Listen to the full episode of “The Bluegrass Mystery”: <a href="https://swap.fm/l/thebluegrassmystery" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://swap.fm/l/thebluegrassmystery</a></p> <p>If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit <a href="http://www.thehotline.org" rel="noopener noreferrer">www.thehotline.org</a></p> <p>Learn more about the unsolved case of Irina Hans: <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline/video/the-unsolved-shooting-of-irina-hans-266495045534" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline/video/the-unsolved-shooting-of-irina-hans-266495045534</a></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

Ella Jackson's disappearance leads to shocking revelations about her husband and ex-husband, highlighting domestic violence and family dynamics.

Key points

  • The Bluegrass Mystery Recap. A mother goes missing, leading to a shocking investigation.
  • Bizarre 911 Call. Glenn Jackson's calm demeanor during the 911 call raises suspicions.
  • Jason's Unbelievable Past. Ella's ex-husband has a tragic history of his own.
  • Irina Hans's Cold Case. Details emerge about the unsolved murder of Jason's first wife.
  • Ella's Motherhood. Ella Jackson was a devoted mother, pouring love into her children.
  • Viewer Engagement. The hosts appreciate their viewers' keen observations and engagement with the show.

Tension

75/ 100High tension

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