Fred, Verna, and their four young children are the happiest-looking family in Malibu. It’s a Brady Bunch story, a blended family living by the beach. But when they take their 50-foot sailboat, Perseverance, to the Channel Islands, tragedy strikes, and Verna and Doug mysteriously drown. Fred’s story—that it was all a terrible accident—has a problem. And her name is Lady.
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Explicit content warning
12/01/21 • 36 min
8 Listeners
Lost Hills: Dark Canyon - 1. Mr. Malibu
Transcript Summary
In this intriguing episode titled "Mr. Malibu," we delve into the captivating story of Fred Railer, a man whose idyllic life in 1970s Malibu takes a devastating turn. Malibu, once a haven for musicians and celebrities, begins to lose its allure amidst drug culture and shifting dynamics. Fred and Verna Railer, a seemingly perfect middle-class couple, tragically lose their lives in a boating accident. However, doubts emerge about Fred's account, casting suspicion on his involvement and the survival of their dog, Lady. Detectives suspect foul play, leading to a compelling trial filled with twists and turns. Explore the forgotten era of Malibu and decide for yourself if Fred Railer is a victim or a guilty party in this chilling tale of love and tragedy.
Transcript
Pushkin. The Channel Islands have the kind of stark, pristine beauty that makes people fall in love with California. Santa Cruz Island is probably the most stunning in the archipelago. About thirty miles due west of Malibu. It's surrounded by glassy, indigo water, giant kelp forests, and tide pools. But probably the island's most fascinating feature, the one that draws kayakers and scuba divers from all over, is its abundance of sea caves with na
1. Mr. Malibu Top Questions Answered
What famous musicians and celebrities lived in Malibu during the 1970s?
This information is not specific to the episode, but during the 1970s, several musicians and celebrities, such as Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, and Neil Young, resided in Malibu.
How did the influx of hard drugs and changing crowd affect the atmosphere in Malibu?
The episode suggests that the influx of hard drugs and a changing crowd had an impact on the atmosphere in Malibu, potentially altering the sense of community and normalcy that previously existed.
Who were Fred and Verna in the context of Malibu?
Fred and Verna were a couple living in Malibu during the 1970s, known for their modest lifestyle and residing in a coveted location on Sea Level Drive.
What made Fred notable in Malibu?
Fred was known for his mechanical skills, being a caring father, and possessing logical and analytical thinking. Additionally, he had expertise in water safety.
What did detectives question Fred about?
Detectives questioned Fred about a dory incident in which he was the sole survivor, leading to the deaths of his wife Verna and stepson Doug. The survival of their dog, Lady, raised suspicion regarding Fred's account of the incident.
Where did the tragic incident involving Fred and his family occur?
The tragic incident involving Fred Railer, his wife Verna, and stepson Doug occurred near Bird Rock, a location near Santa Cruz Island in the Channel Islands known for its stunning beauty and abundance of sea caves.
What was the conclusion of the investigation led by Dr. Dwayne Mose?
Dr. Dwayne Mose, the criminalist who investigated the case, concluded that Fred intentionally killed Verna and Doug in a sea cave rather than it being an accident on the open ocean.
Was Fred convicted of the murders?
Yes, Fred was convicted of the murders in the case. However, some supporters, including Verna's sister and daughter, as well as legal experts, believe in his innocence.
What did Fred claim happened during the dory incident?
Fred's version of events during the dory incident was that it overturned accidentally, trapping him underwater. Upon surfacing, he saw his wife and attempted to save her and Doug, but they did not survive.
What aspects of Malibu are highlighted in the story?
The story highlights the cultural atmosphere of Malibu during the late 1970s and early 1980s, showcasing its idyllic beaches, low-key celebrity lifestyle, and the presence of drugs and rock stars.
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