A beloved TV personality is murdered—but the killer is someone she trusted
This episode investigates the 1991 murder of Michigan TV news anchor Diane Newton King. Hosts Dick and Jill, a married couple known for their conversational true crime and craft beer pairings, examine the case's shocking betrayal. The central figure is Diane's husband, Brad King, a former police officer and criminal justice instructor.
The hosts detail the crime scene: Diane was found shot twice in her driveway, with her two young children still in the car. Deputy Guy Pickett discovered a .22 caliber shell casing in the family's barn loft, aligning with the bullet wounds. Brad King claimed he was on a long walk on their rural property when he returned to find his wife's body. A police K-9 tracked a scent from the barn, across a creek, and through woods, eventually looping back toward the house. Investigators later found a rifle matching the murder weapon submerged in mud along that same path.
Diane had reported being stalked, having received a threatening letter composed of cut-out magazine letters. Brad King presented himself as a grieving husband, yet his behavior raised suspicions, like not insisting on going to the hospital. Diane's family believed Brad, a reportedly poor provider, was the actual stalker and killed her to collect insurance when she wanted to quit work. A major twist reveals Brad was having an affair with a student, whom he told he was separated from his wife. Multiple students described his inappropriate closeness with young female pupils.
The hosts find it suspicious that the family's Doberman did not bark during the shooting, suggesting the killer was familiar. They highlight the haunting contrast between the couple's poetic wedding vows and Diane's violent death. A memorable detail is Brad's eclectic outfit at the crime scene, which included a wide-brimmed hat with a blue jay feather. The hosts express skepticism over Brad's alibi, questioning why he would take a walk when he knew Diane was arriving home with their children.
The tone is conversational and analytical, blending factual narration with the hosts' personal reactions and skepticism. The style is educational yet informal, punctuated by their trademark beer review segment at the start.
True crime listeners fascinated by cases of domestic betrayal and hidden double lives will find this episode compelling. Those who prefer fast-paced action or solved mysteries with clear evidence might find the methodical deconstruction of a husband's lies less engaging.
