TikTok star accused of hiring hit man. Hemlock and magic spells at a murder trial. Plus, the Bexley Box.

Out of the Darkness

Jul 7, 202641 minSummary

In this episode of Dateline NBC, titled Out of the Darkness, the program investigates the tragic murder of Bob Pointer, a well-respected fire captain in Royce City, Texas. The investigation begins on a stormy night in September 2016 when Pointer’s wife, Chasey, calls 911 claiming an unknown figure shot her husband on a desolate country road. Police arrive to find Bob deceased in his vehicle and a frantic Chasey, who initially claims she was an innocent witness to a random act of violence. As detectives dig deeper, they find inconsistencies in Chasey’s story and discover a web of digital evidence that contradicts her account. The investigation shifts toward Michael Garza, a truck driver and Chasey’s lover, who had become obsessed with her. Prosecutors argue that Chasey manipulated Garza into committing the crime, alleging she had been fishing for multiple men to carry out the murder of her husband. While the defense attempts to portray Chasey as a victim of domestic abuse, investigators find no evidence to support those claims, ultimately revealing a calculated plot fueled by deception and infidelity.

Prosecutors' love triangle theory. Youth pastor accused of wife's murder. Plus, June Diane Raphael.

Jul 2, 202632 minSummary

In this episode of Dateline NBC, Andrea Canning dives into a complex array of criminal cases, beginning with the unsettling story of a former youth pastor in Las Vegas accused of murdering his wife on a hiking trail nearly twenty years ago. The episode explores how initial claims of an accidental fall were overturned by new evidence, including testimony from a woman he allegedly groomed. The show also provides a comprehensive roundup of major legal developments, including updates on the retrial preparations for Alec Murdaugh and the federal case against Luigi Mangione. Producers also discuss the surprising death of notorious con man Nicholas Alaverdian, who had previously faked his own death before being brought to justice. A highlight of the episode is an engaging interview with actress and podcaster June Diane Raphael. A self-proclaimed superfan of the show, Raphael discusses her fascination with true crime and how the genre offers a sense of justice for victims. She also shares insights into her role in the upcoming Legally Blonde prequel series, blending the serious nature of crime reporting with a lighter cultural perspective.

Talking Dateline: After the Flood

Jul 1, 202631 minSummary

In this episode of Talking Dateline, correspondent Morgan Chesky joins Lester Holt to discuss the deeply moving and tragic Dateline report, After the Flood. The conversation centers on the devastating flash flood that swept through the Texas Hill Country on July 4, 2025, specifically focusing on the catastrophic impact at Camp Mystic, an all-girls summer camp where twenty-seven young people lost their lives. Holt shares his experiences reporting on the ground, describing the harrowing scenes of destruction and the emotional weight of interviewing grieving parents. The discussion explores the complex factors that contributed to the tragedy, including the lack of a formal, uniform flood evacuation plan and the critical absence of an effective flood warning system. The hosts also examine the polarizing aftermath within the local community, as residents grapple with questions of accountability, the potential reopening of the camp, and the challenges of finding normalcy in the wake of such profound loss. Throughout the episode, the focus remains on honoring the victims and understanding how modern infrastructure and better planning might prevent future disasters.

After the Flood

Jun 30, 202640 minSummary

In this episode of Dateline NBC, titled After the Flood, the program investigates the harrowing tragedy at Camp Mystic, a long-standing Christian summer camp in the Texas Hill Country. During the Fourth of July weekend, a massive flash flood devastated the area, resulting in the loss of twenty-seven campers and counselors. The episode follows the perspective of grieving families and survivors, detailing the confusion of that night, the desperate race for survival as water engulfed the cabins, and the devastating aftermath of the loss. Beyond the immediate trauma, the episode explores the profound anger and frustration of the parents, who seek answers regarding why a flash flood warning was not acted upon for nearly two hours. Investigative discussions highlight the lack of a formal, practiced evacuation protocol and reveal that the camp’s leadership had previously sought to reclassify their property's flood risk status. As the families seek transparency and accountability through legal action, they grapple with the camp's decision to reopen shortly after the disaster, ultimately painting a heartbreaking portrait of grief, survivor's guilt, and the pursuit of justice in the wake of an unthinkable tragedy.

Luigi Mangione’s shifting defense strategy. A victim’s lover takes the stand. Plus, Keith Morrison's new podcast.

Jun 25, 202632 minSummary

In this episode of Dateline NBC, host Andrea Canning navigates a complex docket of true crime developments. The program begins with an in-depth look at the shifting defense strategy of Luigi Mangione, who is charged in the murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Legal experts analyze the tactical, albeit temporary, filing of a psychiatric defense and discuss how Mangione’s past, including his time spent off the grid, shapes the legal narrative. The episode also highlights a gripping case from San Diego County, where prosecutors are building a murder case against Larry Millete for the disappearance of his wife, Maya. The testimony of Maya’s former lover, Jamie Laird, provides a crucial and emotionally charged look into the victim’s final days. Additionally, the show provides updates on the long-standing Crystal Rogers case in Kentucky and a significant Supreme Court ruling regarding the 1979 disappearance of Etan Patz. Finally, veteran correspondent Keith Morrison joins the discussion to preview his new podcast series, Five Miles from Home, which explores the tragic, Shakespearean circumstances surrounding the murder of teenager Micaela Costanzo in a small Nevada town.

Talking Dateline: Secrets Unmasked

Jun 24, 202630 minSummary

In this episode of Talking Dateline, host Andrea Canning sits down with correspondent Keith Morrison and producer Tim Ellinger to discuss the harrowing Dateline investigation titled Secrets Unmasked. The conversation centers on the murder of Regina Hicks, a twenty-five-year-old mother from Ohio whose death remained an unsolved mystery for over two decades. Her body was discovered submerged in a pond inside her car, leading to years of agonizing uncertainty for her family. The hosts delve into the bizarre complexities of the case, which involved a strange arson scheme and the use of wearable masks to mislead investigators. They highlight the challenges of solving a cold case, particularly when key witnesses are initially too fearful to speak. The discussion explores the role of Steve Gates, a reluctant witness who eventually provided the testimony necessary to secure a conviction against Regina’s estranged husband, Paul. The team examines the ethical tensions involved in granting immunity to such witnesses, noting that while the family struggled with the deal, it ultimately provided the only path to justice. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, the episode underscores the lasting impact of small-town violence and the persistent dedication required to keep cold cases in the public eye.

Secrets Unmasked

Jun 23, 202641 minSummary

This episode of Dateline NBC, titled Secrets Unmasked, investigates the chilling cold case of Regina Hicks, a young mother who disappeared in 2001. Initially ruled an undetermined drowning after her body was found in a car at the bottom of a pond, the case remained a haunting mystery for over two decades. The narrative centers on Regina’s estranged husband, Paul Hicks, whom family and investigators long suspected of involvement, despite his persistent claims of innocence. The investigation took a surreal turn years later when Paul became embroiled in a bizarre arson plot. He attempted to frame his new girlfriend for the burning of his home, using sophisticated tactics like deep-fake masks and spoofed phone calls. This criminal behavior eventually provided the leverage investigators needed to reopen the cold case. The breakthrough finally arrived when a secret witness, Steve Gates, came forward after twenty-four years to reveal the truth about Regina’s death. Gates described how he witnessed Paul kill Regina during an argument and subsequently dispose of her car in the pond, finally bringing a long-awaited, tragic clarity to her family.

Spellcaster testifies at murder trial. Legal fireworks in UNC student murder. Plus, cars and crime.

Jun 18, 202632 minSummary

In this episode of Dateline, the program covers a wide range of intense legal battles and criminal investigations. The episode opens in San Diego with the unusual trial of Larry Millete, who is accused of murdering his wife, Maya. Prosecutors reveal that Millete, desperate to save his failing marriage, spent over a thousand dollars on online spellcasters. The jury hears testimony from one such figure, "Tess Joy," who turned out to be a man named Frank Pivec. While the defense argues that these requests for magic demonstrate desperation rather than murderous intent, prosecutors highlight increasingly aggressive messages as evidence of a premeditated plot. The show also examines the 2012 cold case murder of UNC student Faith Hedgepeth. With the trial approaching, the defense has filed a provocative motion suggesting that Faith’s roommate may have been present during the killing, pointing to forensic evidence found in the apartment. Finally, the episode features a roundup of recent sentencings, including the Gilgo Beach serial killer Rex Heuermann and Tracy Grist, the Utah mother who masterminded her son-in-law's murder. The episode concludes with insights from a veteran crime scene investigator on how modern vehicles, filled with sensors and touchscreens, provide critical clues in complex criminal cases.

Talking Dateline: Missing Ana

Jun 17, 202631 minSummary

In this episode of Talking Dateline, host Blaine Alexander sits down with correspondent Jose Diaz-Balart to discuss his debut reporting for the program, titled Missing Ana. The episode chronicles the mysterious disappearance of Ana Maria Knezevich, a South Florida businesswoman who relocated to Madrid to begin a new life following a separation from her husband, David Knezevich. Months into her fresh start, Ana vanished, sparking an international investigation that ultimately pointed toward her estranged husband. The discussion highlights the vital role of Madrid as a setting in the investigation, reflecting on its historical vibrancy and the personal connection Diaz-Balart feels toward the city. Central to the narrative is the profound impact of female friendship; the hosts explore how Ana’s tight-knit circle of friends in Madrid and Florida refused to remain silent, using their own intuition and knowledge of Ana’s communication style to challenge the false narrative presented after her disappearance. The hosts also delve into the meticulous nature of the investigative work, examining the chilling evidence against David, including his calculated efforts to manipulate surveillance technology and evade detection while traveling across international borders.

Missing Ana

Jun 16, 202641 minSummary

This episode of Dateline NBC, titled Missing Ana, investigates the mysterious disappearance of Anna Kenesovic, a successful businesswoman who relocated to Madrid, Spain, to start a new life. The narrative follows Anna’s close friends, Sana and Eliza, as they become suspicious after receiving strange text messages and realizing Anna has gone radio silent. The investigation, led by FBI agent Alex Montilla and Spanish detective Remelo Rodriguez, shifts from a missing person case to a potential homicide when surveillance footage surfaces. The video shows an individual in a helmet and reflective vest spray-painting the security cameras at Anna’s apartment building shortly before she vanished. Investigators later discover footage of the same individual dragging a suitcase from the building, raising grim suspicions. The podcast details the international manhunt that followed, focusing on Anna’s strained relationship with her estranged husband, David. Despite David’s claims of being in Serbia, investigators meticulously piece together evidence—including rental car records, burner phone data, and store surveillance—to place him in Madrid during the time of the disappearance. The episode highlights the relentless efforts of Anna’s friends and the authorities to uncover the truth behind her vanishing.