In Episode 5 of SoCal Slaughters, we dive into the chilling case of the “Black Widows”.

Helen Golay and Olga Rutterschmidt - two women behind a calculated insurance fraud scheme tied to multiple suspicious deaths in Los Angeles. From staged hit-and-runs to disturbing financial motives, this case shocked investigators and true crime followers alike.

🕷️ Black Widow Drink Recipe:• 2 oz vodka• 1 oz blackberry liqueur• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice• 1/4 oz agave• 1 tsp edible black glitter• Club soda topper

Pour all ingredients (minus the club soda) into a shaker with ice and shake well. Strain into a martini glass, top with club soda, and garnish with lime or blackberries.

✨ Bri-lixer Version (alcohol-free):• Substitute alcohol-free “clear” vodka• Skip the blackberry liqueur• Add extra agave (3/4 oz)

This episode discusses murder, fraud, manipulation, and the investigation that ultimately exposed one of Southern California’s most infamous criminal partnerships. Listener discretion is advised.

In this episode of SoCal Slaughters, we dive into the disturbing case of Lonnie Franklin Jr., also known as “The Grim Sleeper.” Operating in South Central Los Angeles over decades, Franklin evaded capture while targeting vulnerable women, leaving behind a chilling legacy that shocked the city once uncovered.

We break down the timeline of his crimes, how DNA evidence ultimately led to his arrest, and the systemic failures that allowed him to go undetected for so long. This episode also explores the victims, the investigation, and the lasting impact on the community.

As always, we paired this case with a custom cocktail inspired by the story 👇
🍹 LA Sunset• 2 oz Reposado Tequila• 2 oz Fresh Blood Orange Juice• 1/2 oz Fresh Lime Juice• 1/2 oz Agave Syrup• Tajín Rim• Blood Orange Ring Garnish

✨ “Bri-lixir” Version (Non-Alcoholic)• 2 oz Grapefruit Soda• 2 oz Fresh Blood Orange Juice• 1/2 oz Fresh Lime Juice• 1/2 oz Agave Syrup• Tajín Rim• Blood Orange Ring Garnish

Viewer discretion is advised — this episode contains discussion of violent crimes.

If you have any information related to this case, please contact local authorities or submit tips anonymously through official channels.

Rumors. Jealousy. Betrayal.

In October 1985, 17-year-old Michele “Missy” Avila trusted the wrong people for the last time. Lured into the forest by former friends Karen Severson and Laura Doyle, what began as a confrontation turned into a shocking and tragic act that would haunt the San Fernando Valley for years to come.

In this episode of SoCal Slaughters, we break down the twisted dynamics of teenage cruelty, the power of rumors, and how jealousy escalated into one of Southern California’s most disturbing cases.

Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of bullying, teenage violence, and brief mentions of suicide.

🍸 Cocktail of the Episode: “Valley Lies”• 1.5 oz vodka• 1.5 oz peach schnapps 2 oz orange juice Splash of grenadine Cherry garnish Shake with ice, pour into a glass, top with grenadine, and garnish with a cherry.

Non-Alcoholic Option: “Bri-lixir”• 1.5 oz N/A vodka 1.5 oz peach puree 2 oz orange juice Splash of grenadine Cherry garnish

Sources: LA Times, Archives ABC7, ChicagoABC7 News