The Murder Capitol

On New Year’s Eve, 1995, as fireworks painted the sky over Camden City, New Jersey, an unspeakable tragedy unfolded just miles away from the celebrations. In this harrowing episode, retired Detective Sergeant First Class Harry Gavel of the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office recounts the most haunting case of his 11-year career in homicide. "Before The Ball Dropped" tells the true story of a home in...

The story is presented with the utmost respect for the victims and individuals involved, aiming to honor their memory, uncover the truth, and bring closure to their families. Some content may be disturbing to listeners, and discretion is advised. Greetings, I'm Detective Harry Gavel, Sergeant First Class, retired from the Camden County Prosecutor's Office Homicide Division. During my time in Camde...

Step into the gritty streets of Camden City in the early 1990s, where danger lurked even in the quietest corners. In this gripping episode, retired homicide detective Harry Gavel recounts the chilling murder of Gary Gottshaw—an ordained minister working the overnight shift at a gas station just to make ends meet. Brutally killed during a robbery, Gottshaw's case went cold fast: no witnesses, no ev...

In this harrowing episode, retired homicide detective Sergeant First Class Harry Gavel recounts the tragic 1990 abduction and murder of 22-year-old Hope Staff and the trauma endured by her four-year-old son, Michael. What began as a simple late-night favor—driving her brothers to a local bar—turned into a nightmare that would haunt Camden County forever. Hope and her son were carjacked outside the...

In this gripping and deeply disturbing episode, retired homicide detective Sergeant First Class Harry Gavel recounts one of the most haunting cases of his career in Camden County, New Jersey. On September 21, 1990, 12-year-old Paul Fitz vanished from his trailer park home. The very next morning, his body was spotted in Newton Creek by two homeless men living in the woods across the river. He was f...