The 10 Best True Crime Podcasts About Mass Murderers
True crime enthusiasts seeking in-depth explorations of mass murder cases can find exceptional investigative journalism through specialized podcasts that combine forensic evidence, psychological analysis, and survivor accounts to examine these devastating crimes. These carefully researched productions serve listeners wanting to understand the complex factors behind mass violence, from criminal psychology to systemic failures in prevention, making them essential resources for anyone studying the darkest corners of human behavior.
Top Mass Murder True Crime Podcasts
1. Last Podcast on the Left
This irreverent yet thoroughly researched podcast tackles history's most notorious mass murderers with a unique blend of dark humor and serious investigation. Hosts Ben Kissel, Marcus Parks, and Henry Zebrowski dedicate multi-episode series to cases like Columbine, Waco, and various school shootings, providing exhaustive research that includes perpetrator backgrounds, victim stories, and societal impact. With over 500 episodes since 2011, the show balances entertainment with education, making complex psychological profiles accessible while maintaining respect for victims. Their approach includes reading primary sources, consulting expert materials, and analyzing law enforcement failures.
2. Morbid: A True Crime Podcast
Hosts Alaina Urquhart, an autopsy technician, and Ash Kelley bring medical expertise and genuine empathy to their coverage of mass murder cases. Their episodes on events like the Las Vegas shooting and Virginia Tech massacre combine forensic details with compassionate victim-focused narratives. The duo's chemistry and Alaina's professional background provide unique insights into cause of death, crime scene analysis, and the physical realities of mass casualty events. With millions of downloads monthly, Morbid has become a trusted source for listeners wanting both scientific accuracy and emotional intelligence when exploring these difficult topics.
3. Casefile True Crime
This Australian podcast's anonymous host delivers meticulously researched episodes on international mass murder cases with a distinctive documentary-style approach. Notable episodes cover the Port Arthur massacre, Christchurch mosque shootings, and Norwegian terror attacks, each featuring comprehensive timelines, witness testimonies, and policy impacts. The show's somber tone and fact-focused presentation allow the gravity of each case to speak for itself without sensationalism. Since 2016, Casefile has produced over 250 episodes, earning acclaim for its respectful treatment of victims and thorough investigation of how communities recover from mass violence.
4. Crime Junkie
Hosts Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat examine mass shooting cases through a victims-first lens, emphasizing the lives lost rather than glorifying perpetrators. Their streamlined format presents cases like the Aurora theater shooting and San Bernardino attack in digestible 30-60 minute episodes. The podcast consistently advocates for policy changes and victim support resources, directing listeners to actionable causes. With over 2 billion downloads, Crime Junkie has become one of the most influential true crime podcasts, using its platform to discuss prevention strategies and memorial efforts while maintaining journalistic integrity in their research and presentation.
5. RedHanded
British hosts Suruthi Bala and Hannah Maguire bring international perspective to mass murder coverage, examining cases from the UK, Europe, and beyond. Their episodes on the Manchester Arena bombing, London Bridge attacks, and historical mass killings feature psychological analysis and discussion of radicalization patterns. The hosts' backgrounds in research and their chemistry create engaging content that explores the socio-political contexts surrounding mass violence. RedHanded's global approach helps listeners understand how different countries respond to and prevent mass casualty events, offering comparative insights rarely found in US-centric podcasts.
6. My Favorite Murder
Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark's wildly popular podcast occasionally covers mass murder cases while focusing on community healing and survivor resilience. Their episodes discussing school shootings and workplace massacres emphasize mental health awareness and the importance of recognizing warning signs. With a devoted fanbase called Murderinos, the show has spawned a supportive community that fundraises for victim advocacy groups. Their conversational style makes difficult topics more approachable, though they always maintain clear boundaries about what details to share, prioritizing victim dignity over shock value in their storytelling approach.
7. Sword and Scale
This controversial podcast uses 911 calls, police interrogations, and courtroom audio to create immersive examinations of mass murder cases. Episodes on Sandy Hook, Pulse nightclub shooting, and workplace massacres feature raw primary source materials that provide unfiltered perspectives on these tragedies. Host Mike Boudet's investigative journalism approach includes interviews with law enforcement and forensic experts. While the show's graphic content isn't for everyone, its commitment to presenting unedited evidence appeals to listeners seeking comprehensive documentation of how these cases unfolded and were prosecuted through the justice system.
8. True Crime Garage
Hosts Nic and The Captain broadcast from their garage, offering detailed analysis of mass murder cases with particular attention to law enforcement response and investigative procedures. Their multi-part series on cases like the Dayton shooting and Pittsburgh synagogue attack examine police tactics, emergency response coordination, and how first responders managed chaotic scenes. The show's format includes "Off the Record" segments discussing broader implications of mass violence. With beer recommendations accompanying each episode, they create an accessible atmosphere while maintaining serious commitment to factual accuracy and victim remembrance in their extensive case coverage.
9. They Walk Among Us
This UK-focused podcast examines British mass murder cases often overlooked by American productions, including the Dunblane school massacre, Hungerford shootings, and Cumbria rampage. Hosts Benjamin and Rosanna present detailed chronologies that explore how Britain's stricter gun laws developed in response to these tragedies. Their research includes interviews with survivors, policy experts, and community members affected by mass violence. The podcast's regional focus provides valuable perspective on how different legal frameworks and cultural attitudes toward weapons influence both the frequency and public response to mass casualty events across the Atlantic.
10. Generation Why
Hosts Aaron and Justin take a analytical approach to mass murder cases, dedicating extended discussions to understanding perpetrator motivations and missed intervention opportunities. Their episodes on Columbine, Virginia Tech, and the Pulse nightclub shooting feature timeline reconstructions and examination of warning signs that went unheeded. With over 500 episodes since 2012, the podcast has built a reputation for balanced coverage that neither sensationalizes killers nor ignores the systemic failures that enabled their actions. Their thoughtful dialogue encourages listeners to consider complex questions about prevention, mental health services, and societal responsibility in addressing mass violence.