Forensic Files

The Thing About Helen & Olga - Ep. 3: Silk Pajamas and a Flimsy Nightgown

Dateline NBC

  • Feb 9, 2026
  • 37:05
  • Full Episode
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<p>The Granny Task Force conducts simultaneous early-morning raids at the homes of Helen and Olga. This episode was originally published on November 16, 2021.</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

Helen Golay and Olga Rudderschmidt orchestrated insurance fraud leading to murder, targeting vulnerable men for financial gain.

Key points

  • The Efficient Method of Elimination. Driving a car over someone proves to be a chillingly effective method of murder.
  • The Confrontation at Izzy's Deli. Ed Webster's tense meeting with Helen Golay reveals her true nature.
  • The Black Widow. Olga Smith, known as the Black Widow, raises suspicions among investigators.
  • Fred Downey's Tragic End. Fred Downey's life takes a dark turn after moving to California.
  • The Marked Man. Jimmy Covington learns he may have been targeted for murder.
  • The Arrest of Helen and Olga. In a dramatic raid, federal agents arrest Helen and Olga for insurance fraud.

Tension

85/ 100High tension

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