The MacDonald Family Murders | True Crime

[@MirrorMindYT]

*Corrections and Additional Information* 1. 6:39 To say the home was "ransacked" was a bit of an exaggeration on my part, as I discuss later in the video there really wasn't that much damage throughout the house, especially when you consider the story Mr. MacDonald gave to the CID. So sorry about that. 2. 12:47 One important thing I left out here, the area of the house where most of Jeffrey's blood was found was in the kitchen where there was also rubber tips from surgical gloves nearby. This added further credence to the theory his stab wound was self inflicted. 3. 21:52 It's very important to highlight that Mr Kassab wasn't just sitting idly by waiting for Jeffrey to deliver him a copy of the transcripts either. Before him and Mildred saw their opinion of Mr MacDonald's innocence change Freddy was on a crusade for the group of hippies they believed had murdered Colette and the children to be brought to justice. He would regularly take hand written notes and deliver them to congressmen and senators urging a reopening of the investigation (which was basically on ice after the army decided there wasn't enough evidence to prosecute Jeffrey). The sheer will and determination he exhibited in finding justice for Colette, Kristen, and Kimberly is amazing, and I really find the juxtaposition between him and Jeffrey fascinating. 4. 29:31 It was an 8-0 ruling because one of the justices did not participate. I know some people will probably be mad that I didn't go into much detail about MacDonald's appeals in the time since his conviction. The reason for this is functionally they haven't changed anything, he is still in jail and remains convicted for the murder of his wife and daughters, so bloating the video's runtime another half hour and attempting to give you guys a play by play of the extensive litigation that has taken place just didn't seem worth it. That being said, here are a couple of the highlights of those appeals so you are at least aware of them: -Helena Stoeckly died of liver disease in 1983, but that hasn't stopped her name from coming up repeatedly throughout the course of Mr. MacDonald's appeals. Some have come forward alleging that she confessed to them she took part in the murders of Colette, Kimberly, and Kristen (including Helena's mother). Ms Stoeckly apparently made many conflicting statements regarding her guilt or innocence throughout the years, some days saying she was there when the crime took place and other days saying that she wasn't. One former US Marshal alleged Helena was going to confess at trial but prosecutors threatened her with the death penalty if she were to do so, however, the appeal MacDonald filed based on this claim was eventually stuck down citing holes in the Marshal's account. No evidence has ever been uncovered linking Helena or anyone else to the crime except for Jeffrey MacDonald, and this includes DNA testing that was done in the early 2010s on multiple items and hairs found throughout the house. -One of the federal prosecutors in the case, James Blackburn, was later convicted of fraud and embezzlement in 1993 and lost his license to practice law. MacDonald's lawyers filed an appeal and argued the conviction should be overturned or a new trial should take place as Blackburn's statements at trial were unreliable. This appeal was denied. Basically from what I could gather it was determined that Blackburn hadn't done anything illegal during MacDonald's trial and that's why the appeal was rejected, I am a bit surprised that a new trial didn't at least come out of this particular appeal but it's important to remember the fact one of the prosecutors was corrupt doesn't automatically make Jeffrey innocent. Going into the 1979 trial, Jeffrey contacted true crime author Joe McGinniss and invited him to write a book about the case. He assumed that Mr McGuinniss would write something that was flattering to Jeffrey and supporting his innocence, that did not happen though, as the trial progressed the author became convinced of MacDonald's guilt and by the time he got to writing the book he felt Jeffrey was very clearly the murderer. The novel, entitled Fatal Vision, released in 1983 and was very damning of Mr. MacDonald. Not only was the book very adamant that Jeffrey was guilty, but it described him as a narcissist who cared little for anyone besides himself. MacDonald was not happy with this and attempted to sue McGuinniss claiming the author had committed fraud and lied to Jeffrey about what the contents of the novel would be. The case was eventually settled out of court for $325,000. However, MacDonald only received $50,000 of that due to a lawsuit that was filed by Freddy and Mildred. Fatal Vision was a hit that would go on to sell over a million copies, and a tv mini series was even made of the novel starring the amazing Gary Cole as Jeffrey, however the book has drawn its fair share of criticism over the years. Some feel what Mr McGuinniss did was unethical, and several rebuttals to the novel have been written over the years. Most famously Errol Morris's novel A Wilderness of Error which functions as basically an anti-Fatal Vision, this book is very supportive of MacDonald arguing that while the doctor may not necessarily be innocent that he was also not treated fairly at his trial and throughout the investigation. Pointing to several of the errors made during the investigation that are highlighted in this video. Although this book has also drawn its share of criticism as Morris has been accused of "cherry picking" his information in an attempt to write something that is pro-Jeffrey. So basically if you wrote a book about this case you probably managed to piss someone off, and I have no doubt our video will probably piss some people off as well lol.

[@joannaw5913]

Fatal Vision is an excellent book. It goes into great detail, and shows what a vile narcissist McDonald is-and what absolute heroes Freddie and Mildred were. Well worth a read.

[@suefink7292]

Although the real reason or motive may never be known,, someday he will give an account for what he did. In the mean time he is where he belongs and hopefully will never get out. Thanks for the updated info

[@shirleyjeanpilger1394]

"Fatal Vision" shows you must be careful what you ask for, in case you get just what you ask for. Mr McGuiness seems to have been very diligent in his research and came to his conclusions through evidence and testamony. BTW - "Shotgun wedding" means the bride is pregnant before the wedding and the parents are forcing the marriage. Especially back then

[@MirrorMindYT]

@@shirleyjeanpilger1394 Ah okay, I thought it was just a catch all term for when someone has a fast wedding due to an unexpected pregnancy, thanks!

[@joannaw5913]

@@shirleyjeanpilger1394 Yes, McDonald was furious with Joe McGuinness and, I think, tried to take legal action against him? He was hoping the book would show everyone that he was innocent. Instead it shows just what a truly awful person he is.

[@dheider9109]

This step father is a role model of what many " fathers" should be , but aren't. A type of man not easily found. My respect and sincere sympathy for your loss.

[@gaura591]

Father of the Century 🕵️

[@mindystein4649]

@@gaura591 that's for sure

[@christar9527]

Yes, this man was a rare breed.

[@kimberlyvinson8386]

My father passed away suddenly when I was 9 years old. At age 10 my mother re-married and I have to say I was and am extremely blessed to have this wonderful parent in my life. He has never treated me any differently than his own biological children. There are some wonderful step parents out there but unfortunately are few and far between. Colette's step-father fought so hard for justice. He truly loved her and his step grandchildren.

[@Ladysugarshaft]

💗

[@thunderbolt2145]

Not only was Freddy's fatherly love not bound by blood, but Colette's love for Freddy was the same, as she never called him her step-father, and insisted others not do so as well. He was truly the hero in this case.

[@mindystein4649]

I 💯 Agree..... Jeffrey Macdonald is a sorry excuse for a human being.

[@nancydavis4618]

Can you imagine him being your dr?

[@kcbarbo78]

Freddie Kassab was a real dad, though he wasn’t related to Colette by blood. The way he advocated for her and her children is beautiful. Sadly, MacDonald’s children did not have such a father.

[@GriffithsJacqueline]

Totally agree, a good Dad can be any man who loves children & his partner. Unfortunately a small number of biological Dads aren't good Fathers. What a long, drawn out process. Agony for the family.

[@courtneymoran3759]

Right?! Neither did I!

[@chocolatetownforever7537]

Fred Kassab was a great man. His dedication to getting justice for Colette and his grandchildren was just amazing. Make no mistake about it, MacDonald is a free man right now without Fred's diligence. I hope there is a heaven, because if there is, he, Mildred, Colette, Kimmy, and Kristy are all together, and having a great time.

[@wildplumbeauty]

He’s definitely an example of an amazing stepfather. He’s a gem 💎.

[@graciesaccardo9363]

Great man 😊 Freddy was amazing and awesome and that was her stepfather hopefully this will set an example for real fathers to stand up for their own children and God bless them all especially Colette her children and her mom God bless their souls Hope they're resting in peace 🙏🙏❤️

[@meerav7634]

That the step father recorded the plea for not releasing MacDonald shows how he had fought for the case and how desperate he was for justice for his daughter and grandkids. Salute and kuddos to such a great father👍

[@trishbaum6364]

Ironically he became like Sharon Tate's mom

[@nancydavis4618]

Thank God Freddy pursued to get a conviction. He worked tirelessly.

[@pillettadoinswartsh4974]

Stabbing your own two-year-old daughter 50 times, has got to be the worst thing I've ever heard.

[@pjm934]

PURE EVIL !!!!!

[@sueannnatter5295]

Yes and she was sleeping so not a witness to anything so why why why!?

[@pjm934]

@@LLucky1944 yeah I believe that to

[@sheilasmith7779]

The 50 times ought be thought about. Overkill? By a dad who wanted out of his life. Does 50 stab wounds to a child make sense by a father who wants to start over? No it doesnt. There are killing clearly indicating anger and those killings that are simply pragmatic. Something is seriously wrong with this case.

[@songbirdy]

@@sheilasmith7779 Maybe him being in the military and being mentally and physically taught how to kill had something to do with the overkill.

[@lisadaniel7193]

I’ve read Fatal Vision numerous times over the years. First in 1984, at 15 years old. Scared me, intrigued me, hooked me on true crime for life. I think he’s guilty. Absolutely.

[@micheleshively8557]

Same. Exactly. The fiber evidence did it for me

[@denagustafson6070]

I am almost certain this was my very first true crime story as well. Frightening and very disturbing!

[@Jcoppertone]

I was 14 same obsession. IMO 95% guilty. Still can’t believe anyone would do this to their family. Especially if they appear so normal to other people. That’s why the 5%

[@lisadaniel7193]

@@Jcoppertone that in itself describes what he has been deemed….a sociopath. Some call him a psychopath. Either way, expert at hiding his true nature. He and many like him even excel in life. Scary shit.

[@virginiaorender9383]

Colette McDonald had pulled the hair off of the one who had killed her head and it's matched Jeffrey McDonald DNA

[@westhawk9599]

I have the utmost respect and admiration for the Kassobs! Their perseverance in seeking truth and making sure justice was served was impressive. Bless Colette, Kimmy, Krissy, and Mr and Mrs Kassob!

[@shirleyjeanpilger1394]

Almost any man can be a father. It takes a special kind to be a dad.

[@MeganVictoriaKearns]

So very true

[@bringthepayne7561]

And the dead wife's Stepfather without an unquestionable doubt most certainly was✊🏾

[@dhanyzaffry4829]

My Lord !! Your words of wisdom really hits me hard... Always trying to be the best DAD there is....tq man..!

[@mta4562]

the one who eats the liver and onions off your plate when mom isn't looking, that is your dad

[@estherweger9654]

I totally agree with you on this one.

[@frankie1012]

Hard to believe this happened over 50 years ago.

[@patriciagazey4693]

And he is still alive

[@annelee5633]

I lived across the street from where this happen after the fact. I saw the jury bus pull up and view the dwelling as my neighbor and I let our little babies splash in a small pool. Colette was one of us, she could have been anyone one of us! Thank God Mr. Kassab didn't believe this monster's nonsense and spent the rest of his life making sure the world knew it too. Rest peacefully Mr Kassab, justice has been served!

[@josephconnor2310]

Wow that you saw the jury viewing the house.

[@Jasmine-rx1md]

I lived in the base housing neighborhood after this happened. The house was known as the haunted house

[@dianekeane7740]

@@Jasmine-rx1md Do you recall how long the house sat as a crime scene; was it ever cleaned up for another family to live in? Was there any paranormal activity associated with the place after the murders and while the scene sat as it was for years, such as the voices or apparitions of Collette and the girls? I can't imagine what it was like for you and the other families who lived in the same housing units at the time. Thanks for sharing.

[@Jasmine-rx1md]

@@dianekeane7740 I was a child at that time. No one lived in the house. I wonder if the house was ever lived in again.

[@kateskeys]

WOW That’s amazing that you were THERE! Thanks for posting!🌟🌟🌟🌟

[@Zadahita]

Wtf? Stabbing a 2yr old and beat to death a another child?????? Evil

[@sueannnatter5295]

I believe the theory was the little girl Kim accidently got hit with the club when he was swinging it at Colette

[@kitkatf6292]

@@sueannnatter5295 yes that was the theory.

[@adele-md4rm]

Sue Ann another theory was she woke up and came in to see what was going on. He knew them she was a witness. But to go kill the sleeping child is just vile sickening to the core. Grandparents could have raised her if he didn’t want to

[@DavidDykes-dm9lc]

HIS OWN FREAKING KIDS!!!!😢😢😢

[@fabergeegg1722]

The way his wife and children were murdered was done by someone who obviously was very angry. So, why would the murderer have so much savage rage and energy used on the other victims and yet stab Jeffery MacDonald with minimal stab wounds? Its not consistent ,but rather very contrasting to the point that its obvious Jeffery MacDonald committed the murders. Furthermore, he was a doctor and he knew where to stab himself ,which wasn't life threatening and at the same time he probably thought it would come off convincing that there was a murder or murderers who committed the murders, and he was a victim as well.

[@pjm934]

Yeah I think the overkill of his family compared to his minor injuries was the biggest indication of his guilt, I like your comment

[@leanderrowe2800]

Exactly, no murderer is stupid enough to make sure the children and their pregnant mother were dead dead (according to the crime scene evidence), yet spared the life of the strongest one in the house (Jeffrey was just knocked unconscious). He was guilty as hell !

[@hardwaygat1354]

Y no k no

[@CarmenCastro-ce2qk]

IMO he killed them, cause repeated stabbings are considered personal attacks. Hope he will rott in hell!

[@smallies7154]

That's what has me undecided about darlie routier. Her wounds were very near fatal. Forensics have been wrong before. Bite marks, hand writing etc. A lot of junk science gets used as 💯 proof of guilt when these things are so open to interpretation 🤔

[@ginacable5376]

What a brilliant step dad and grandfather.

[@louisesultana2431]

To think this guy (MacDonald) would have escaped prosecution without the perseverance of Freddie is truly a horrifying thought. But he certainly would have. Freddie was a true hero. The obstacles of lenient courts didn’t stop him. I can’t imagine the frustration of him and Mildred over those many years. But they kept on going. Amazing.

[@iwantthe80sback59]

100% right. I don’t know anyone with the tenacity that Freddie Kasab had. Wish I had 1% of his tenacity.

[@craykanne]

Collette and the girls butchered yet ol' Jeff had little scratches and a surgically precise wound. Yeah big no brainer there. Guilty AF.

[@trhansen3244]

What if he blacked out early on and killed them all while he was blacked out?

[@Scorned405]

Do u really think the CIA is gonna frame it to make him look innocent?

[@rainaeasley7863]

He had a collapsed lung

[@elizabethcarpenter4313]

The more you read about this case, the more clearly certain it becomes how 100% guilty Macdonald was. And is.

[@EYE_GOTCHA]

MacDonald was framed. I 100% believe Ted Gunderson.

[@peggypasson8794]

I'm still fascinated by this an horrified . How just how can a person hurt so brutally any innocent child ever

[@AddaJane]

Yet still to this day he holds true to his story. He's a psychopath. I just don't understand how you can do this to your own children. Again, proof being not everyone deserves to be a parent.

[@badgersandpackers5132]

Thank you

[@mc7477]

​A lot of family annihilators ​get married and become parents. MacDonald isn't the only one to do this and become infamous for such crimes. Charles Stuart, Scott Peterson, Chris Coleman (Joyce Meyer's bodyguard), and Chris Watts all killed their pregnant wives and children; however, in Dr. MacDonald's case, it was not premeditated and he snapped on the spur of the moment just like Dr. Sam Sheppard who was believed to have murdered his pregnant wife during a late night argument on July 4, 1954. Doctors work long hours and are extremely tired and irritable under stressful circumstances. I'm just grateful that Dr. Sam was a somewhat decent parent and didn't kill Sam junior. @@AddaJane

[@rob5249]

Chris watts is not a normal father. He was just good at keeping the monster hidden.

[@rtwice93555]

There were two family annihilators in the early 1970s. McDonald was one, John List was the other. But it took nearly 20 years before they found John List, one of the first cases profiled on America's Most Wanted. I think what troubled me so much about John List was that he killed each member of his family as they came home. There was some time in between some of them where he could have changed his mind and stopped. Both McDonald and Watts did theirs in a rage.

[@MIGGYME1]

Watts was a monster created by his narcissitic wife. Doesnt give u the right to kill your whole family but dont for a second think he was always some monster

[@rosemariefritchman5288]

Chris Watts was born in Spring Lake NC which is basically Fort Bragg!

[@rob5249]

@@rosemariefritchman5288 no disrespect but I couldn’t care less where the monster was born, I’m just disappointed he hasn’t been revenged in prison yet

[@RickFigone]

​@@rtwice93555List used religion as an excuse.

[@kimberlywarren7422]

My family lived at Fort Brag when this happened. My parents knew them and said this was such a shock because they seemed so happy. My mom was pregnant with my sister at the time.

[@NJItalianGal747]

Wow

[@prakkari]

Chanting “Acid is groovie, kill the pigs”. This is the clear giveaway. So laughably unreal.

[@bringthepayne7561]

Thought I was the only one who seen through such crystal clear bullshyt😔 He was too squeaky clean know the slang and cadence of its use during that time in life....

[@aandreaaaa]

Its exactly what a conservative buttoned-up member of the military who only knows about hippies from the media would think hippies would say

[@meekbills2857]

With a candle.

[@brendaallen5842]

He got the idea from a magazine talking about the Manson murders

[@Jcoppertone]

During the trial a drug counselor testified that a group of people taking acid couldn’t arrange a trip to the toilet let alone the murder of 3 people. I thought that was funny

[@IOMsk8chick]

His life is over but I don't feel like his family has received justice

[@Kathleenkelly70]

So true, I agree!! I'm not a death penalty advocate, but what a completely evil & depraved act! I still pray for Collette and her three babies.

[@dianekeane7740]

Wow, what a tough ombre; he slaughtered a pregnant woman, two little girls, and still had enough contempt left over to fabricate a woman as the lead suspect in the case. Prior to this, in his spare time he slept around while his wife raised their children and kept house.

[@tracyross5831]

WHAT is WRONG with THESE NASTY MEN......killing innocent wives, AND THEIR CHILDREN 😡😡😡😡😡😡

[@seattlejayde]

Well stated

[@dianekeane7740]

@@seattlejayde Thank you!

[@dianekeane7740]

@@tracyross5831 I agree!😥

[@christar9527]

@@tracyross5831 It’s maddening isn’t it? In America women are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends something like every other hour each day. Women are targeted for abuse by police more than men too. As a woman I’ll be happy to say goodbye to this world.

[@nooneknows9545]

He asked paramedics if the kids were ok as he heard them crying yet when recalling his version of events he found his children stabbed and tried CPR...so he knew their fate.

[@MirrorMindYT]

Great point!

[@kathleendobens6648]

Good observation

[@ajayhelliwell5817]

I noticed that to!

[@TerrenceBosworth]

@@ajayhelliwell5817 me too!!!

[@youtubebowser627]

Exactly my thought!

[@Cheryltwin2012]

I've seen the crime scene photos of both Collette and the girls and they are horrific. How a father could murder his own children in cold blood is totally beyond me. I know MacDonald said at his trial that he was taking uppers in order to function at his long shifts at the hospital and it's known that uppers can cause people to overreact to situations (like a child wetting the bed). But that does not justify what was done to them. It certainly doesn't justify stabbing a two-year-old 50 times in the back. Like many guilty people, MacDonald has long maintained his innocence and no one is buying it at this point. He had both motive (wishing to shed himself of the family that cramped his style, and knowing another baby was on the way) and ample opportunity.

[@malcolmmarshall5946]

Plus, Colette striking him in the head during a fight probably sent into a rage.

[@Animalfarm6cats]

I also saw the crime scene and autopsy photo. They are beyond horrific.

[@edp3202]

i believe he was having affairs. maybe he wanted to be single and the stress of medical school and a family sent him over edge. it was an act of rage.

[@christar9527]

He was a liar. It wasn’t uppers that made him do it. He was selfish and wanted the “playboy “ lifestyle. That’s my opinion.

[@gloriamontgomery6900]

Apparently , McDonald still has some supporters-I guess they can just blithely ignore the massive evidence against him

[@michellebaker1974]

My heart breaks for Colette Kimberly Kristen and Jeff and Colette's unborn son . I've seen the movie and read the book. It's so obvious Jeff killed his entire family. Absolutely heartbreaking 💔 Thank God for Freddy and Mildred Kassab for never giving up and fighting for Colette Kimberly Kristen and the unborn son. May Colette Kimberly Kristen and the baby rest in heavenly peace.

[@kariminalminds]

And May the Kassabs Rest In Peace too 😓

[@GinaBush-zq7cj]

I still cannot figure why he would do it

[@maryannenizio5074]

Karl Malden was awarded an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series for his performance as MacDonald's father in-law, Freddy Kassab. Freddy was a goat as a father... devoted dad ... he is the reason Jeffery is not running around free with nurses

[@paulaward6764]

God bless Freddie Kassob! What a good, good man he was!

[@joannaw5913]

An absolute hero.

[@pjm934]

An amazing loving dad

[@billthompson6442]

I agree! I admire him greatly, if it was not for him and him alone Macdonald would be enjoying the good life to this day!

[@rekhalagali1781]

I too agree that Freddy Kassab was a great father. Hats off to him and Mildred.

[@jennifer_m.8613]

Wonderfully done. Jeffrey MacDonald is guilty as hell; a fact you left out, it was pouring down rain that night and no muddy footprints on the floor or in the yard. Colette, Kristen, and Kimberly's headstones were changed to read "Stevenson", Colette's maiden name

[@karendegraaf1146]

Should have been changed to Kasab....

[@angelacritters]

​@@karendegraaf1146or Stevenson-Kassab

[@nancydavis4618]

Scarey guy, very skilled surgeon. Gee I wouldn’t want him operating on me😩

[@angelacritters]

@@nancydavis4618 me either. I cannot believe he is still walking this earth. It isn't fair to his children and wife.

[@stephenosullivan9016]

Wow…I’ve known this case since I saw the original TV broadcast back in ‘84, and never knew their last name was changed on the headstone! Good for whoever thought to do that!

[@marlenetrujillo2212]

I know someone who worked with him at St Mary’s Hospital in Long Beach Ca. When he was arrested many at the hospital couldn’t believe it because I guess he was very charming. I’ve always thought he was guilty

[@craykanne]

They must realize by now that Ted Bundy was charming too. Charm easily disguises psychopathy.

[@susanfoy3356]

Yes, in the book as well he describes how all of Macdonald's coworkers thought he was wonderful and couldn't imagine he was guilty.

[@luciac9123]

I live in Long Beach and remember this case well!

[@samanthacook2495]

@@susanfoy3356 A reader, as opposed to a writer in those days, I always loved the way Joe McGinnis described MacDonald's behaviour towards his medical colleagues as "administering hugs and dispensing free medical advice." Brilliant!

[@tinarider9945]

Bipolarity..

[@MiMisTreasures]

This case is one of the first true crime cases I ever followed closely. Maybe because I was born the same year as the beautiful 2-year-old little girl and by the time I was old enough to read about the case, I was mortified that a father could do this to his children. Knowing that according to the evidence, that monster held that baby on his lap as he stabbed her. Just horrible. Nowadays, sadly, family murders have become way tooo common. This case is so eerily similar to the Watts case.

[@ajayhelliwell5817]

Grrrrrrrr

[@kimmie020]

The murders of these three beautiful souls, and how they were taken from this world are incomprehensible. It’s been some time since I’ve read or watched other reports of this tragic event. They basically give similar accounts excluding details & timeline of the crime. Your commentary was anything but similar! Your tenacious editing was brilliant. Thank you kindly

[@vickikay25]

This is such a heartbreaking case and this ole boy is STILL telling the "acid is groovy" story. I just wish his wife and kids and the Kassab's and his own family could rest in peace already.

[@JamesSmith-c9g]

Jeffrey obviously tried to mimic the Manson crime scene and the "acid is groovy"comment sounded so fake..

[@thunderousapplause]

a budding psychopath from the gate- charm, achievement, ego… and rage. This is the first true crime book I ever read. There is no way anyone else committed the murders.

[@peppybobanny1157]

I'm going to have to give a bullshit on this...that book was a one way street..

[@thunderousapplause]

@@peppybobanny1157 is that why he went to prison for his whole life and there was never another suspect? You just say shit. It’s so stupid. It makes me laugh

[@peppybobanny1157]

Hey bell been listening to Fallon lately? Real genius wishing death on the unvaxed.. or was Jimmy just saying shit? Wishing u had none of that now aint ya.. sads..

[@MegCazalet]

@@peppybobanny1157 Just because there’s bias in something doesn’t necessarily make what it ultimately says not true.

[@ea8269]

What a gruesome murder. It's so heart breaking.

[@vampirequeen953]

He absolutely sickens me!! I honestly will NEVER understand people whatsoever!! To murder your wife and children is despicable!! He actually thought he could get away with murder?!!! Yeah okay 🙄 whatever!! Thank you so much for a very interesting video!!!

[@maxalberts2003]

I know. What. A. Monster. And always, Vampire Queen, the question is why? Why would someone do that, plan it, and make it happen?

[@kathleendobens6648]

He could have gotten away from it but military didn't absolve him from the murders. But felt they could not win to he court martial. Fbi reports that freddie obtained really said the whole story. He did it . No question.

[@micheleshively8557]

He almost did twice

[@vampirequeen953]

@@virgie4715 Ya know, people really amaze me @ times and it really makes me wonder what he was thinking about @ that very moment?!!

[@thecook8964]

The Achilles's heel of psychopaths is that they think they are smarter than anyone else

[@shay4ojibwa638]

This is one of the cases that got me interested in the true crime genre. I read Fatal Vision in the early 80’s…the best book ever written of the Jeffrey McDonald case, by Joe McGinnis.

[@alwayswatching1650]

I'm going to try and get a copy, thanks for mentioning it!

[@billschieffer712]

Fatal Justice by Jerry Allen Potter is also an excellent read about the MacDonald murders.

[@mckster56]

Me too this and one called the woodchipper murder hooked me

[@Craycraykell]

Me too

[@micheleshively8557]

The very one for me too. Hasn't quit my fascination since

[@cathybrown8334]

A very long time ago I was married to a high ranking ( not military) law enforcement officer. There were conferences with only the cream of the crop law enforcement people. There were classes all day and us wives were treated to beach outings and shopping. My husband knew I was a true crime buff, so on the day of the Jeffery McDonald class I snuck in. Before my eyes were the real crime scene photos and explanations of exactly how he did it. He did it.

[@Kathleenkelly70]

Interesting! Thanks for the post!

[@luxeford547]

That an assailant would utter the banal phrase "acid is groovy - kill the pigs" would be enough to set my alarm bells ringing.

[@pjm934]

Yeah I agree

[@tinarider9945]

Graphology analysis???

[@TheGeosto]

EXACTLY….”groovy” was a rather dated and tired cliche phrase at the time of these murders. Kill the pigs was a lame Manson reference. None of it is believable.

[@CissyBrazil]

There are no words. God awful 😞 😢😢

[@jennifer_m.8613]

Something I always find odd is Colette's face. Look at how youthful she looks in her graduation picture compared to how drained and aged she looks in her wedding photo, just a few years apart.

[@vee5196]

The guy is right where he belongs 👏 He thought he was slick. May the family be resting in paradise🌹 Thank you for the story.

[@MirrorMindYT]

You are very welcome!

[@ambercrombie789]

I just don't buy it.

[@ambercrombie789]

@Ride sally Ride Thank you Sally. You are so sweet. Actually I am posting from a padded cell. 😀

[@lisasisk3713]

@@ambercrombie789 MAKES SENSE

[@MrBayspring]

Before there was a Scott Perterson, there was this guy, Jeffery McDonald. How can he bludgeoned his wife and kids, how in God's name?

[@sandrapowell4166]

He stabbed them repeatedly

[@MrBayspring]

@@sandrapowell4166 people like him do these crimes that just shockes the mind, it's just incomprehensible how a person can do that to any child, let alone to children that are his flesh and blood, children who called him daddy. It's has to be a message from God to let us know that there is such a thing as the devil, because no one in their right mind can do something so horrific.

[@gracie3174]

Now Chris watts.

[@tomvera2589]

Robert , before Jeffry MacDonald there was Sam Shepard. Look it up . Eerily similar. Both men were doctors. Both cheated on a pregnant wife. Both were home the night of the killings. Both men were asleep on the couch . Both claimed to have fought the intruder and got knocked out. The fugitive series came from the Shepard case.

[@MrBayspring]

@@tomvera2589 well it's obvious he was trying to go with the Manson killings, so it's quite possible he was trying to copy Shepard...so many murderers have tried to insinuate that the rash of burglaries in the neighborhood is why their wife or kids have been killed...but burglars are cowards that don't want confrontation...in the rear occasions that they do kill...they don't do an overkill on the victim, nor do they try to clean up the scene, or dispose of the body..

[@Barbarra63297]

McDonald was a narcissist who probably never wanted to marry Collette in the first place, then another child comes along, he was probably having an affair and just snapped and decided to get rid of all of them. Narcissists are some of the most dangerous people out there, NOTHING comes before their wants and needs.

[@christar9527]

Narcissism is on a continuum and this guy was at the extreme end. All narcissists are dangerous as you said. They are to be avoided at all costs! If they don’t kill you outright they will kill you slowly.

[@ef5686]

I appreciate the narration that puts a lot of aspects pre-emptively into context!

[@mrs.dr.spencerreid3992]

I wonder why the fact that Jeffery killed his unborn son was not mentioned enough throughout any telling of this story. When Chris Watts killed Nico, he was charged with that murder too. Was it just the times of the murders (1970) that this wasn’t “important enough” to focus on? EVEN A CONVICTION FOR THAT MURDER?

[@bethmorano1452]

I may be wrong but I believe the act of killing a pregnant woman resulted in just a crime against the woman, baby was not included. The law has changed so it does, now, include the baby. It’s a great point and I would like to research this.

[@quiltygal6981]

@@bethmorano1452 yes you are right. I think in some states it's still the case.

[@nancymills1884]

At one point I think the law mentioned that the child had to be a certain age. For example if the baby could survive outside the womb then it would be considered murder, otherwise it was an assault/ murder of the woman.

[@mrs.dr.spencerreid3992]

@@nancymills1884 ~ 😞

[@lisadaniel7193]

Definitely the times. The debate over when a fetus becomes a “person” raged on for decades.

[@alexandroslysais1798]

The guy is a Green Beret, said to be one of the most lethal fighting forces in the world, but he seemed unable to protect his family from some drug crazed hippies? I would think even if he got severely injured he would have at least taken out one of their attackers. I don't buy it.

[@Latebird24]

Good point.

[@Jcoppertone]

Is a green beret doctor also trained like regular green berets? Always wondered that. Like is the cook for the navy seals also a navy seal? Lol

[@superchitownhustler]

He was not a trained Green Beret. He was assigned to a unit of Green Berets as their medical officer.

[@superchitownhustler]

@Ride sally Ride No, he was not. You don't know the facts.

[@josephluscavage8162]

We studied this case at MP school as a case of what not to do at a crime scene. I can still hear the instructor saying never ever jump to conclusions at a crime scene. The housing unit was still sealed in the mid 90's.

[@jackjones9784]

Please search and read this. Reflections on the Jeffrey MacDonald Case NACDL

[@sweetsuszie]

When I heard about the watts case, this case immediately came to mind. Same sernario. Two baby girls pregnant with a boy wife. Difference is McDonald is still denying his guilt like a true nut job

[@louisesultana2431]

A narcissist can do no wrong, is how these types think. And they can never admit any weakness.

[@sweetsuszie]

@@louisesultana2431 yep.

[@eshim3961]

Did you know Chris Watts grew up in Spring Lake, NC, only a few miles away from the Fort Bragg house where this happened? Basically, if you drive out of the px/commissary complex, you're in Spring lake. When the Watts family murders happened, I immediately thought of this case and was floored when I found out long after the fact that Chris Watts was from Spring lake, and that I knew his family.

[@sweetsuszie]

@@eshim3961 that is crazy!

[@patriciagazey4693]

So is chris really Blaming his wife Worse

[@MiMisTreasures]

Thank you for all your hard work in this video! I’ve watched many documentaries on this case but yours had information I’d not heard before. Nicely done!

[@YTjennifer]

Well done. I read the book about this case (Fatal Vision) years and years and years ago (in the late 80s, I think) and found it fascinating. You managed to condense a 3-inch thick book, along with updates from later happenings that came after the book's publication, into a 35 minute video. Thumbs up!

[@Animalfarm6cats]

I read the book years ago too. I just bought it to read again.

[@skinovtheperineum1208]

Just read 'A Wilderness Of Errors' and you'll know what really happened that night.

[@jackieblue1267]

@@skinovtheperineum1208 You can watch that online as well. It did not convince me that Jeffrey MacDonald did not murder his family.

[@shilo577]

That there wasn't a reason for the slaughters wasn't true. The marraige wasn't all peaches and cream. McDonnell was unfaithful ALL thru the marriage. They fought often and if I'm not mistaken he was physically abusive at times. He wanted to be free and unencumbered and I think the child wetting the bed started a fight that got dark very fast. If I remember the book correctly it went dark when he hurt the little girl and Collette tried to protect her which caused him to kill her. The rest was just to tie up lose ends. He is an evil bastard who should live to be 100 and locked up for every day of those years. Have a long miserable life Jeffrey.

[@dashawn4350]

Different blood types, put the nail in his whole story. Glad he will never leave prison.

[@kaynemccully5266]

Why would someone be carrying a candle in the rain😮

[@suzannebrady6201]

There was a fantastic made for TV movie called Fatal Vision “ about this case. Karl Malden played Freddy Kasab , Gary Cole played Jeffrey McDonald .

[@micheleshively8557]

It was a great One! I had just finished reading the book again lol

[@kitkatf6292]

Gary Cole bares a striking resemblance to McDonald.

[@reesemorgan2259]

@@kitkatf6292 George Clooney resembles him too. Could play him as an old man..

[@tinaingram9472]

Awesome movie! Seen it many times.

[@elainecordella1542]

he is exactly where he belongs

[@myunknownland9272]

Hell...

[@MrBayspring]

4 sure..handsome but evil.

[@kcbarbo78]

Yes. The second tragedy of this story is that so many people stomp on the memories of Collette and her babies by advocating for their brutal killer.

[@MrBayspring]

@@kcbarbo78 well one thing about murder, justice maybe delayed, but eventually one has to pay, if not to man, certainly with God.

[@smf1104]

Absolutely!!!

[@steffiewatkins4392]

Jeffrey McDonald was at the same prison as my step dad, in phoenix. My 2 yr old sister walked passed him in the visiting room and FREAKED out. Mind you she was normally the social butterfly visiting others. When she did that I was POSITIVE he was guilty regardless of what he protests..

[@Angel-nu7fm]

You can't fool kids or animals....they can see the person's spirit or aura.....

[@janetdear6429]

😱 Wowcher my head is spinning after this story may the victims rest in peace, 🙏 great video thanks 🖤

[@jeanross7430]

So much overkill for strangers to do, it shows much rage especially on one child so personal killing for sure. (Aside from Manson Murders)

[@chaschk2]

The Tate and LaBianca murders were done by strangers and were horribly brutal. Just an observation.

[@wildcolonialman]

A Fathers, a Mothers, determination is the fabulous and remarkable example on display. Fabulous couple, and a obvious psycho path.

[@Midgy21747]

What kind of monster does this to small babies, and a pregnant mother. Beyond comprehension. How do his lawyers live with themselves>

[@pjm934]

It’s a good thing Freddy went detective! God Bless you Freddy

[@judithmacfadzen9516]

I loved how Freddy said.."I have the patience of Job"!!

[@GenghisCohen257]

You really did this case justice. Awesome job.

[@nadiazahroon6573]

Kasab loved her more than her own father and husband.

[@brendaallen5842]

Colette's biological father committed suicide when she was about 11 years old

[@finallythere100]

the last statement .. how a father's love is not limited by blood...

[@mercedestaylor5591]

Awesome storytelling..I've subscribed as I look forward to hearing more..☺️

[@suefink7292]

Wow, good for the stepfather and his determination! Very sad what happened to the wife and 3 children,, the unborn child was also a victim. Although no clear motive for the murders,, sounds like he was just bored supporting his family and wanted out, without having to pay support for his children. I hope he rots in jail,, the wheels of justice grind slowly but at least finally prevailed. Thanks fo r sharing this story, as always, very good

[@pleaseshutup7053]

I mean any normal person when their daughter or spouse is murdered they wouldn’t give up the search

[@robinstewart6510]

I don't think the murders were premeditated or thought out. The number of stab wounds suggested rage. Most rage killings are sudden, with a story, by necessity, concocted afterwards. MacDonald evidently jumped on the Sharon Tate murder for the basis of his story. He had just received the March 1970 issue of Esquire magazine (captioned "Evil Lurks in California") with an article about the Sharon Tate murder and another about an "acid queen" with long blond hair & her followers. His fingerprints were found on and in the magazine.

[@miaj8153]

There’s a website dedicated to Colette and the girls. Every transcript is there, along with a very strong theory about the murders from Colette’s brother and Freddy. It wasn’t Kristen’s urine on Jeff’s side of the bed that night, but the older daughter, Kimberly. It is believed that Jeff was molesting Kimberly that night and Colette, who was actually the one sleeping on the couch, walked in on it. A fight started that resulted in all of the murders that night. Horribly sad!!

[@bratgirlrules8094]

This case has bothered me for many years!!! You are the only one who covered this case so far. Thank You, Thank you, Thank you!!

[@jennaolbermann7663]

Those poor babies and their mother. 😞 How could anyone do such terrible things to others, especially their own family?

[@zoeymckeown3194]

It's heart-breaking his underlying severe psychosis wasn't picked up earlier by the psychiatrists.

[@kennethcook8857]

"Acid is groovy"... Really? That sounds so much like an "establishment" person attempting to sound like a "hippie" that it almost screams "fake!"

[@malcolmmarshall5946]

The word "groovy" was outdated way before the murders.

[@kathiegehebe67]

Fatal Vision was the definitive book written about this case. It was the #1 True Crime book of the 80s. In fact, another book has been written trying to exonerate McDonald claiming he was wrongfully convicted (revisionist history is all the rage now) but its complete b.s. Before he died Joe McGinnis wrote a 2nd book, Final Vision to make sure McDonald never gets out of jail. The blood at the crime scene was the absolute most damning evidence in the case, decades before DNA scientists were able to piece together what happened. The psychological background on McDonald is fascinating also. I recommend the TV movie from the 80s based on the book with Gary Cole and Karl Malden available on youtube, scared the hell out of me when I was in h.s.

[@tammylewis2408]

One of the things that stood out was the blood at the crime scene. The family had all four blood types: Colette was Type A, Jeff was Type B, Kim was Type AB and Kristin was Type O. DNA was not available at the time, so the investigators were able to trace the blood throughout the house using their blood types and recreate the crime scene. Had there been two family members with the same blood type, there would have been some questions as to who was killed first.

[@nicholassilverio2227]

​@@tammylewis2408Thanks for the infos about their blood typings. As DNA testing is widely available now, can the MacDonald family victims' bloods be DNA tested today so that the crime conviction of Jeffrey MacDonald is reconfirmed?

[@ritasmith2568]

How can you even defend someone like him

[@everythingbobbywolfe]

This, once again, is brilliant. My friend, so glad to see the numbers continuing to rise. Your videos are worthy of the escalated subs.

[@ambercrombie789]

Ridiculous speculation.

[@lisasisk3713]

@@ambercrombie789GLAD TO KNOW YOU'RE IN A PADDED SENSE. THERE IS A REASON FOR THE SEASON.

[@tugglemiles2991]

I spoke to an MP who worked the case verdict GUILTY, He said it was a very creepy home. Also, the building was torn down as no one wanted to live there. He said there was a lot of inadmissible in the case. When we spoke he was retired.

[@iveyivey1298]

This guy and Chris Watts have a lot in common

[@JamesSmith-c9g]

I never thought Chris was very smart in the manner of committing the crime,on the news when he was so called looking for his wife and kids,his affect was flat and callous,he didn't give a shit and thought he was gonna have a new life with his GF.i mean calling the girls preschool to tell them the girls wouldn't be returning to school was pretty stupid at least he accepted responsibility and is where he belongs

[@aliciacruz5957]

Yes, mr. Kasab loved her like his own. You don't have to be blood to love a child. Great man, Great Dad.

[@pafanofsox]

Excellent video. I appreciate the detailed story. My first true crime book was Helter Skelter. True crime fan since then.. Fatal Vision is another favorite.

[@graciesaccardo9363]

Thank you ❤️ Freddy and Colette's mother so sorry for your loss and I am so happy that you recorded the statement so he will not be released cuz he's never been proven innocent in 💔💔🙏🙏

[@Ambular_Amber05]

His wife, unborn son, and two daughters were BRUTALLY murdered, yet he received superficial wounds? Yea, okay! 🙄

[@xaviervalverde6389]

Omg, what a joke of a case as far as the legal and judicial systems! I’m glad in the end true justice prevailed.

[@monus782]

I found out about this case through the Judith Barsi case as she starred in a movie based on this case, I started listening to more recent cases with this type of crime and I had no idea how deep the rabbit hole could go.

[@Luke2011able]

I read the book Fatal Vision twice, I’m convinced he’s 100% guilty.

[@meshiesplace6886]

I did a report in school on this case in my freshmen year when I first heard of the case. It made my cry at what this man did to his family.

[@lindaajide2115]

There’s so many people who would do anything to have a family like he had 😣 what could make someone hate their family so much to stab them in such a savage way !

[@billthompson6442]

He accidentally killed his 5 year old with a blow to the head, and he saw no way out of the situation! I think it it is that simple, why he did it. A very wicked, cold and calculating man!

[@Jcoppertone]

@@billthompson6442 I don’t think it was that simple. I mean I agree with you that that was the theory but I think this was premeditated. I mean I think he was gonna kill them all anyway as he planned because the single bachelor life was more appealing to him

[@kkitten8183]

He wanted his freedom, and the wife with two daughters, and another baby on the way, not what he wanted. Remember she was pregnant when he married her, or probably never would have married her. His life after the murders proved he was a womanizer , and much more. He eliminated the family he never wanted, Read the book "Fatal Vision " , saw the mini series in the same name. So glad he is in prison for life , and die there. No one has the right to kill an innocent child / children , along with a woman he most likely wanted to be free from. Divorce her, and her and her children would be alive today. No narcissist, pyschopath with no feelings for other people. All about himself. He is where he belongs. Thank God for Fred Kassab🙏💖🌷🌷🌷🌷

[@jesusbuiltmyhotrod]

He didn't want to be a dad and husband anymore. Sorry Jeff it doesn't work that way.

[@ygcg8696]

If the only able bodied man comes out with manageable wounds and the rest of the family is fatally injured , that man should prove innocence beyond any doubt ! But for the determined father in law this case too would have been a travesty of justice !

[@febbym.szambia.9484]

So beautiful innocent kids and their Mother that he made they lives so short... May they souls rest in Peace.

[@geofflanza3832]

This narrator is fantastic at articulating the details of the crime. Thanks

[@tammylewis2408]

I would have loved to see age progression photos of what Colette, Kim and Kristin look like now. Colette would have been 79, Kim 58 and Kristin 55. I read the book and watched the miniseries. Gary Cole was excellent as Jeff McDonald; this role introduced him to us. He later played in another true-crime TV movie about a Canadian colonel who was a rapist/killer (A Colonel and a Murderer). I was around Kristin's age when the murders happened, Colette was the same age as my late Mom (they were both born in 1943), both young mothers raising kids in the 60s and 70s, navigating marriage and motherhood during changing times, so this case affected me greatly. Colette had a wonderful dad in Fred Kassab, who fought to bring justice for Colette and her kids, sad that he was robbed of holding his would-be grandson. I remember reading that Colette had misgivings towards her last pregnancy; both of her pregnancies with her daughters were difficult, nearly dying from complications with a c-section when she had Kristin, and was told her last pregnancy would also be high-risk. Also she was having serious doubts about her marriage, knowing that Jeff had infidelities, and had flaunted them in her face. Colette called Mildred two days before her death and asked Mildred about her and the girls coming home to NY in the spring since Jeff was supposed to go to Russia as the doctor for the US boxing team (he was lying, it was a coverup to see a woman) around the time the baby was due. Mildred replied they could visit them in the summer since Fred and she were busy with other plans in the spring. Mildred never forgave herself for saying that they couldn't come; she felt if she had said please come home right away, Colette and the kids would have still been alive. It was definitely a sad and tragic story all around.

[@APizzaDriver]

Kimberley was born 20 days after me. I always think about how she would be whatever age I am. 60 this year. Unreal. RIP

[@cassandraralph5906]

Eighty percent of murder, physical assault and sexual assault crimes are committed by people who are known to the victims. Stranger crime is much less common by comparison.

[@julieclayton-west624]

Guilty as sin.

[@bparks_5095]

Just stumbled across this channel, you're videos are riveting sir! You deserve way more subs this channel is going places. This guy is guilty as shit. I'm a married father of two young daughters, this story sickens me to my core.

[@MegaTrivial]

I can't understand why after so many years in prison he's still not telling the truth and confessing to the crimes! How come some people commit horrible crimes, and although spending decades in prison they keep claiming they're innocent?! Maintaining your innocence while you're never worried about to catch the killers of your family, is weird! It doesn't add up together, since it proves that there's lack of compassion and care. Innocent people want their revenge, want justice to be brought, or at least to know who did it. He didn't seem to want any of these, just himself to be free?!

[@bernieburawski1446]

Probably couldn't live with himself if he finally admitted killing his family. I mean the crime is so horrific and unbelievably evil, he probably just came to a realization that if he just keeps denying it, he will believe it to be true and will never have to admit to himself that it was him who actually killed his entire family. To admit that to yourself would probably cause someone to commit suicide and I don't think he wanted that. I think he just never wanted to marry and longed for a bachelor lifestyle, so his way was to just kill them all; pretty horrific and evil and just shows what a psychopath and evil person he actually is.

[@MegaTrivial]

@@bernieburawski1446 - I don´t remember this story, but you might be right, family annihilators use to commit sui-cide in the end; if that´s what he did. Confession might bring one in close contact to their subconscious-mind and make it conscious...

[@roberthopkins3621]

Maybe because he is not guilty, did you ever think of that ?

[@donnaprim6585]

Colette and her children and parents are all buried together, near my house. They used her maiden name on the graves. I visit them often….

[@rhainaweissehexe3899]

The DNA and Forensic evidence alone proves that McDonald killed his innocent family. Mr. Kassab helped put Jeffrey away by never giving up on Justice. Such a sad and brutal betrayal by a selfish Narcissist, who wasn't as smart as he thought he was! Rest in Peace to the Kassab Family 🙏🌹✨💙

[@dunstonmunson8314]

Love your channel bro, you have a good documentary style. Easy to listen to and well rounded presentation. Keep doing what you are doing.

[@EricaFrieson-t2t]

This is a very good recital and exploration of a horrific case from 1970 that I vividly remember though I was only 14 at the time. I guess Dr. McDonald did not realize that his wife and two little girls and himself all had DIFFERENT blood types and that his murders of them would leave a very different blood trail all over his apartment from his fantasy tale of what he said had taken place!

[@robertsachs18]

Very thoroughly well done, this channel gives me hope for the future of true crime.

[@christopherdelgaudio9484]

I can not believe this!! I can not my God!!.what can cause this WTF!!

[@marianparoo1544]

If there was one thing that convinced me he was lying was that thing about the girl screaming, "Acid is groovy!" Groovy? Really?

[@conniecrawford5231]

Have you never heard the song “Feelin’ groovy” Groovy was a common word used in the late 1960s!

[@marianparoo1544]

@@conniecrawford5231 Of course, and that is why he put it in the mouths of his imaginary hippy killers. Come on, do you think a real killer would come in chanting something like that?