The Spoon River Gothic Podcast

Reflecting on the night-- Before Donna and Justine's tragic demise, we are presented with the notion that every choice we make can have far-reaching consequences. The choices made by the individuals involved in this case potentially set the stage for the following heartbreaking events. It invites us to contemplate whether these choices were coincidental or held more profound significance. As we ma...

Terry Haynes (no relation to David Haynes)-- A key piece in Donna’s story, upon first speaking with him, Terry appears to distance himself from Donna, claiming he barely knew her and feigning ignorance of her tragic demise. His selective recollection of their interactions, coupled with his ability to identify Donna's rings, positively raises intriguing questions. Could Terry's initial denial be a...

Seek solace-- Delving into the events leading up to Donna's murder, we are offered a glimpse into her life the night before the tragic incident. Amidst a difficult divorce, Donna had recently started bartending at the Elks Club—the job providing her with a sense of community and friendship that she craved and a respite from the inappropriate advances she had faced from some clients at her banking...

Blurred lines-- An interview with David Haynes provides valuable insights into Donna Tompkins’ life and relationships. David leaves us intrigued by the intricacies of her connection with David. He prompts contemplation on the impact of perception, blurred boundaries, and their potential link to the tragic murder of her and her daughter Justine. The dynamic between Donna and Dave presents a complex...

Small towns: everyone knows everyone-- An intimacy plagued with gossip and judgment frames Donna's experience as an "outsider,” highlighting the delicate balance between acceptance and exclusion. The episode challenges us to reflect on how small communities can foster both a sense of belonging and feelings of isolation—shedding light on the complexities of rural living and its social dynamics. Suc...

A predictable cadence-- Waking up, going to work, and returning home gives us a sense of stability and security. But what happens when that routine is abruptly shattered when the ordinary turns unexpectedly into the realm of uncertainty? In the case of Donna Tompkins and her daughter, Justine, a seemingly ordinary morning transforms into a chilling enigma that leaves Donna’s coworkers on edge. Ear...

Who is Donna Tompkins? Despite this question, we cannot discuss the case of the Tompkins' without delving into the complex figure of Donald R. Bull, the man convicted of their murders. Tireless efforts are made to speak with key individuals directly associated with Bull—including family members, friends, inmates, and legal authorities—whose accounts might shed new light on the case. Individuals su...

Cory Zimmerman and Radio Vérité Present the Literary, Long-Form, True Crime Podcast: " SPOON RIVER GOTHIC - NARRATIVE of a DOUBLE HOMICIDE" A True Crime Saga Revealing a Mystery of Romance, Obsession & Terror. The Borders of the Puzzle - Arson & Murder! A HAUNTING TALE - The perplexing double homicide of mother and child unfolding against a vivid backdrop of a quaint, midwestern town—the s...