I just read this 2012 article on the death of David Miscavige's mother-in-law, deemed mysterious because it was ruled suicide even though she was shot 3 times in the chest with a rifle before she was killed with a 4th shot to the head:

http://blogs.villagevoice.com/runninscared/2012/01/the_strange_dea.php

The reporter interviewed Debrah Kitchings, a retired investigator with the LA Department of Coroner who examined the body. Apparently she thought Crystal's case was one of the most bizarre she'd encountered:

"Of course it's unusual to have that many gunshots. And with a rifle? Totally bizarre. But if you think that case is bad, you should hear about this other one, Crystal Spencer," Kitchings said, referring to a 1988 death. After telling me some things about that case, she came back to the matter at hand.

I have seen on a few different true crime shows where a customer at a strip club is denied a date with a woman despite tipping her all the time (some customers have weird minds). Then they get pissed off and decide to follow her home after she leaves the club at 2am at dark. He then finds out where she lives. Then stalks her residence to see when she usually comes and goes throughout the day/night and finds her door room. Maybe her scream came when he broke in, but I don't remember them saying anything about broken down door or window screen cut. Or maybe the suspect already broke in and waited for her and she screamed when she opened her closet door and saw a shadow figure.

I do not think she was an escort despite many strippers that do actually get into that business. I think it was one of her customers and this is LA/Hollywood where weird men come in herds.

Some of those women are top notch looking and a few men unfortunately feel they want her hot body and probably that guy broke in and killed her. He probably had rape on his mind, yet when she screamed he had to get out of there fast and the rape idea was scrapped cause of fear her neighbors would call the police. Then again those idiot neighbors never called!

And if it is a certain stalker from the strip club then its almost impossible to find out who he is at the time unless he stood out like a sore thumb as her 'number one fan', so to speak. On an old episode of FF detectives were confused when someone supposedly broke into a woman's house and killed her. Since there were no broken windows/doors/alarm systems they felt it was someone she knew. Sure enough it was......a male friend killed the young lady. He was never her current or former boyfriend and this tricked the detectives. Now with Crystal Spencer maybe one of her female friends had a boyfriend who she knew of too. He had a crush on her but she didn't know it. Naturally since she trusted her female friend she trusted her boyfriend at the time and let her in. maybe this was the case.

I got the impression Anton wasn't quite as close to Crystal as he would have liked to have been. Reading between the lines he could have been more of a sugar daddy than a significant other...

100% correct.

Homeboy on the segment talking about, "Oh she loved fine wine and French cuisine and classical music and a bunch of uppity white people BS..." :lol:

This girl was way more into fruit-flavored vodka shots, chicken fingers and top 40 music than what this Anton dude claimed. She just played him like a fiddle.

In reality, this girl was nothing but a bopper. She was a jumpoff at best and a straight up prostitute at worst. There was no way this Anton dude was the only mark she was playing when she got killed. Did she deserve to get murdered? Absolutely not. But painting her as something other than what she actually was does nothing but hurt the investigation as far am I'm concerned.

#keepinitreal

100% correct.

Homeboy on the segment talking about, "Oh she loved fine wine and French cuisine and classical music and a bunch of uppity white people BS..." :lol:

This girl was way more into fruit-flavored vodka shots, chicken fingers and top 40 music than what this Anton dude claimed. She just played him like a fiddle.

In reality, this girl was nothing but a bopper. She was a jumpoff at best and a straight up prostitute at worst. There was no way this Anton dude was the only mark she was playing when she got killed. Did she deserve to get murdered? Absolutely not. But painting her as something other than what she actually was does nothing but hurt the investigation as far am I'm concerned.

#keepinitreal

I never really got that impression at all and I would contest your claims on the grounds that there isn't conclusive evidence to support it. Moreover, as you said, it really doesn't matter in the overarching scheme of things--that is, her death.

But I do definitely see how Crystal may have found the relationship with Anton beneficial. He was trying to write screenplays, and she was trying to get on the screen.

But I do definitely see how Crystal may have found the relationship with Anton beneficial.

As do I, since he came off as a total Captain Save-A-Hoe in the segment. He got to smash a girl 20ish years younger than him who was way out of his league in the looks department and she benefited financially. That's the very definition of a mark and a bopper.

Again, it's horrible that she died and even worse that whomever did it got away with it. However, painting her as something that she wasn't (a struggling girl who only "danced" to pay her way through college) honestly does put a damper on the investigation.

Dollars to donuts that it was another mark of hers that did her in. Who else could have got that close? Either a consensual sexual act that went too far or another dude that figured out she wasn't really his "girlfriend" or something like that. Either way I definitely think she was murdered.

Dollars to donuts that it was another mark of hers that did her in. Who else could have got that close? Either a consensual sexual act that went too far or another dude that figured out she wasn't really his "girlfriend" or something like that. Either way I definitely think she was murdered.

This gal definitely had a sordid past that was glossed over by UM. I dont take a lot of stock in what the neighbors say they heard that night. I believe they wanted to get their faces on a national broadcast. My feeling is that she was suffering from a serious illness she didn't know she had. She was a sex worker and lord only knows what she may have had. If there had been other people in the vicinity that heard something that night, it would give some credence to a violent encounter. Everyone enjoys a good physco-sexual killing but I dont see that here. The coroner didnt help matters either by being slopping with the autopsy. But that was LA during this time period. South Central was a killing ground and a sex worker being found dead didnt take a lot of priority. Sad to say but thats the truth. No cover up here in my opinion. Just sloppy work by all who investigated.

And I wonder if Jet was really his actual first name. Imagine having him in your foxhole...puke:

If she was murdered, I wonder if it was from a John who didn't want her to leave? I'm sure she was a prostitute, or had a multitude of dudes coming in and out like a revolving door, so I'm wondering if there was a fight when she said she wouldn't be "entertaining" much longer as she was moving to Japan? Or perhaps it was kinky sex turned deadly.

I do find her sugar daddy ahem boyfriend strange. It's weird to not have gone over there after not hearing from her, especially when the operator said the phone was off the hook. Either they were on bad terms, or he knows more than what he's saying. He seems nice and all, and I'm sure he cared, but he sticks out as the main suspect to me.

Every sign of jealousy was in that relationship. Her being a stripper/possibly a prostitute, and she was moving to Japan? I don't know. It was said that he was cool with her being a stripper, but I doubt it. Maybe at first he didn't care, but when you start seeing someone for a while you start to care. If you're spoiling someone then I'm sure it's very easy to turn possessive, so I wonder if this was their problem? "I showed you this, and bought you that, but you still want to show off to other men??"

I wonder if he asked her to quit, but she didn't and a fight turned deadly? Or if the Japan story is true, then perhaps he begged her to stay to no avail and had a "if I can't have you then no one can" moment?

I also wonder if she broke up with him, and he went over there in a rage? Somethings off about him to me..

I understand that a random John could've killed her, but he had the most motive to me. Unless she had another boyfriend who found out about the old one. I just can't understand showing her the "higher life", and still being content that she's a stripper. I feel like he tried to be a fixer upper (trying to turn a hoe into a housewife) but failed, and killed her in a fight?

EDIT: Crystal's friend said "he was very upset, but he said it was okay, he accepted it" which supports my jealousy theory. If you're upset at first, you're never going to accept your "girlfriend" being a stripper, especially if you can give her better. I don't think he ever accepted it, and the rage grew. In the segment it looked like the bouncer/club owner didn't want to let Anton in, I wonder if he had a history of going there trying to get her offstage?

It's also possible that she told Anton the truth (he was just money), or he got that impression when she came around less and killed her in a confrontation.

However, painting her as something that she wasn't (a struggling girl who only "danced" to pay her way through college) honestly does put a damper on the investigation.

I too was always skeptical of the relationship between Anton and Crystal, and always thought she thought she could benefit from being with him in terms of furthering her career into acting. But I do think that topless dancing WAS a way to make extra money and that there's no evidence to the contrary that it wasn't the case. There was no evidence of her doing anything other than topless dancing, which may have seemed somewhat risque for the early 90's, but nowadays it's not even closely looked down upon as it once was. Anyway, I guess I've always seen Anton as someone who felt a lot closer to Crystal than vice versa, because of the way he fought to keep the case alive and have it reinvestigated. I don't think someone who's merely a sugar daddy would've gone through great lengths like Anton did.

Anyway, I guess I've always seen Anton as someone who felt a lot closer to Crystal than vice versa, because of the way he fought to keep the case alive and have it reinvestigated. I don't think someone who's merely a sugar daddy would've gone through great lengths like Anton did.

I do. You said it yourself, Anton felt closer to Crystal than Crystal did to Anton, that can make someone go crazy. I feel like Anton was the type who loved too much. Expensive dinners, trips, probably giving her money, but he knew that she only wanted what he could give, and not him.

He did go through alot investigation wise, but maybe it's a cover-up. Maybe people in Crystal's circle was pointing the finger at him, and he tried to make himself look innocent. Hell, maybe he got off on knowing he got away with it, and he really got off on toying with investigators, and her family (i.e. Tim Mcclure, Jule Caylor). Some people are sick like that. Maybe, it was a heat of the moment killing, and he feels guilty but he doesn't want to turn himself in. I'm not saying he's guilty, but I think a sugar daddy who loved too much, who wasn't really loved that much in return after spending alot of money, and time on her, only to be put on a back burner could lead to a fight, which could have led to her being choked out with a phone cord.

And to everyone reading this thinking that what I'm saying is B.S., then put yourself in Anton's shoes. You start seeing a young woman, and you find out that she's a stripper. Ouch, right in the gut. However, you like her enough and think that you can "save her". You take her to expensive dinners, movies, maybe give her money in hopes that she will ditch her seedy lifestyle, and come be with you in your privileged life, it doesn't work. You gave her everything, yet she's satisfied with showing off her body to other men for chump change. After all of that, she says she's going overseas for another job but doesn't invite you. Now you REALLY know she doesn't care about you. Maybe you try to talk her into staying, but she refuses. A fight breaks out, you think about all you've done, but she was ungrateful and used you, so you strangle her with a telephone cord. It could've happened.

Though we probably can not deny the sugar daddy relation its tough to say Crystal didn't love him back. Did she not want to hide she was a stripper? If she wanted to get into acting I am sure she had to value that relation little more.

Another thing, this story was portrayed years after it happened. As a writer did Anton have any connections to the show? If he was guilty why participate in it? Seems weird for a guy who some people think was involved only to be in the depiction a few years later. Its not like this was a national case.

Has her brother said in this thread it was likely a violent reaction to a drug. At her size if she were into hard drugs they likely would have impacted her harder. Human physical ability is finite, we have our limits.

Though we probably can not deny the sugar daddy relation its tough to say Crystal didn't love him back. Did she not want to hide she was a stripper? If she wanted to get into acting I am sure she had to value that relation little more.

Another thing, this story was portrayed years after it happened. As a writer did Anton have any connections to the show? If he was guilty why participate in it? Seems weird for a guy who some people think was involved only to be in the depiction a few years later. Its not like this was a national case.

Has her brother said in this thread it was likely a violent reaction to a drug. At her size if she were into hard drugs they likely would have impacted her harder. Human physical ability is finite, we have our limits.

It was noted that they went weeks without talking. Anton had said that after she told him about the trip to Japan, they didn't talk for a while, and when he did call she didn't answer. He called the operator and the operator told him the phone was off the hook, but he never went over there.

And Crystal didn't tell him she was a stripper. His neighbor had found out and told him. She obviously didn't want to tell him. Apparently Anton was angry, and then said it was okay. I'm sure he was never okay with it.

The drug theory makes sense though, I suppose.

As do I, since he came off as a total Captain Save-A-Hoe in the segment. He got to smash a girl 20ish years younger than him who was way out of his league in the looks department and she benefited financially. That's the very definition of a mark and a bopper.

Again, it's horrible that she died and even worse that whomever did it got away with it. However, painting her as something that she wasn't (a struggling girl who only "danced" to pay her way through college) honestly does put a damper on the investigation.

Dollars to donuts that it was another mark of hers that did her in. Who else could have got that close? Either a consensual sexual act that went too far or another dude that figured out she wasn't really his "girlfriend" or something like that. Either way I definitely think she was murdered.

I agree with this, all the way down to the "Captain Save-a-Hoe" part. I think Anton was in a casual relationship with her. I don't believe they were in a committed, exclusive relationship. He was likely used to dating more conservative, more conventional girls, and here comes smoking hot (by his standards) Crystal Spencer who actually gives him the time of day. Of course he wants the world to remember that he was her boyfriend when she died. That's good for his ego.

It was stated that he "accepted" her profession as a stripper, but I doubt it was a big deal at all. In fact, I imagine he was giving out high-fives around the water cooler or at BBQs to whoever he could brag to that he was dating a stripper.

I don't rule him out as a suspect but I don't think he's some knight in shining armor, either. He seemed like a nice guy and I certainly hope he was able to move on with his life, but his descriptions of her life, and of his life with her, are just superfluous. He liked sleeping with her because she was hot. She liked hanging around him because he was probably one of the only people she met that could possibly help her advance her acting career.

I think being naked from the waist down may or may not be significant. She could normally sleep that way. She could have had some uninterested sex earlier that night. It doesn't necessarily mean that she was raped.

I think it's a real tragedy what happened to her. I also don't have a very high opinion of her neighbors who heard tortuous screams and decided to just go back to sleep. It looks like there were a number of people who cared about her, but I'm just not sure I buy their stated reasons for caring about her.

As much as an LAPD coverup isn't far fetched nor is a creepy stalker John from her strip club the sad truth might just be Incompetence from the Coroner which is why the height and weight were mixed up. And total indifference from the LAPD because she was a stripper. If anyone knows about the Grim Sleeper case their was a guy in LA who killed 10-25 prostitutes btwn the mid 80s-2007 and largely got away with it because of how little regard is given to these women at the bottom rung of the socioeconomic ladder. There are probably a lot more Crystal Spencer who's murders went unsolved and were not even attempted to be solved by the LAPD.

Check out the comment left by Jorge on 07-11-2017. He has a lot of disdain for Crystal. Even if it is all true, it's not how most people would describe a deceased friend. He comments on almost every area of her life, and makes remarks such as,

Comments have been presented that Crystal was embarrassed by her topless dancing. If I had boobs that drooped down to the waist like two rolls of film, I’d have been embarrassed too.

https://unsolved.com/gallery/crystal-spencer/#comment-14816

The thing I always found the most odd about this segment is that no one from her immediate family was interviewed.

Based on the way UM presented her story, I'm inclined to think she might've been murdered during a rough sexual encounter. But I'm only speculating, I'm fairly ignorant on her background outside of the way UM portrayed her life.

The thing I always found the most odd about this segment is that no one from her immediate family was interviewed.

Based on the way UM presented her story, I'm inclined to think she might've been murdered during a rough sexual encounter. But I'm only speculating, I'm fairly ignorant on her background outside of the way UM portrayed her life.

I never thought about her family being omitted. The commenter says her father died in prison. But I don't know why her mom or her sister weren't included.

Check out the comment left by Jorge on 07-11-2017. He has a lot of disdain for Crystal. Even if it is all true, it's not how most people would describe a deceased friend. He comments on almost every area of her life, and makes remarks such as,



https://unsolved.com/gallery/crystal-spencer/#comment-14816

That seems pretty low and in almost "rebuffed suitor" territory. We've all seen pictures of Crystal-- she was quite attractive, with her breasts going nowhere near her waist... :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

I read what you're talking about-- this guy says he's a friend, but his entire tone suggests otherwise. The only thing I find interesting is the theory that Anton may have been gay. Scandalous, for sure, but it's hard for me to take this dude seriously. His comments come off too much like sour grapes.

Whoever it is does bring up a decent point about the fact that Anton never drove over to her apartment to check up on her, and just assumed she had went to Japan. Always thought that was weird.

Whoever it is does bring up a decent point about the fact that Anton never drove over to her apartment to check up on her, and just assumed she had went to Japan. Always thought that was weird.

That IS a good point, which what made me curious about the whole "Anton is gay and wanted Crystal as his beard" theory. But to just take shot after shot at her character seems pretty distasteful. I could be wrong, but he does sound to me like someone who had an interest in Crystal but was rebuffed. I mean, if she was such a hot mess and apparently so unattractive (you know, with those boobs hanging down past her waist and everything), why was he friends with her? Why did she have his number to call him in the first place? He makes good points, but it seems fishy.

I always thought Anton wanted Crystal more and in a way that she didn't want Anton. I think they were friends (possibly FWB) and he wanted it to be more, but she didn't. Maybe he was like a sugar daddy to her, or just a buddy. She wasn't a very large person so it's very possible that she was sick/exhausted and took the wrong combo of drugs (over the counter or illicit).

I think Jorge is a troll and has no real info...

I'm buying what he's selling. Seems reasonable enough to me based on everything I've heard/read on the subject. I was always of the opinion that she was something of a hot mess but that's even more extreme than I imagined. I sincerely think that post is legitimate.

That seems pretty low and in almost "rebuffed suitor" territory. We've all seen pictures of Crystal-- she was quite attractive, with her breasts going nowhere near her waist... :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

I read what you're talking about-- this guy says he's a friend, but his entire tone suggests otherwise. The only thing I find interesting is the theory that Anton may have been gay. Scandalous, for sure, but it's hard for me to take this dude seriously. His comments come off too much like sour grapes.

He does sound like a rebuffed suitor, but it's been almost 30 years. You'd think he'd have let go of some of his anger.

His remarks remind me of killers who talk of their victims disparagingly afterwards, as if they are somehow vindicated for ridding the world of such filth. But who knows, he probably was a rebuffed suitor...of Crystal or Anton.

Whoever it is does bring up a decent point about the fact that Anton never drove over to her apartment to check up on her, and just assumed she had went to Japan. Always thought that was weird.

That is fishy, especially if what Jorge said about her not even being considered for the hostess position is true.

But I don't consider Anton a suspect because he's the person who was pushing for further investigation. He was visiting the police station. He pressed for the autopsy reports, and made a big deal out of her height and weight being incorrect.

But I don't consider Anton a suspect because he's the person who was pushing for further investigation. He was visiting the police station. He pressed for the autopsy reports, and made a big deal out of her height and weight being incorrect.

I don't think Anton had anything to do with her death, but it does seem like they weren't as close as the segment would lead you to believe.

Maybe I'm the only one here, but I do think 'Jorge' is someone who was well-acquainted with Crystal and has certain insights into her life--however biased and colored by his own apparently hurt feelings--that may actually shed some light on her death. I object to his crude and insensitive remarks about her body and I don't think Anton's Jewishness really has anything to do with the matter at hand (although he seems to bring it up about every other paragraph), but I don't think his commentary is totally worthless.

It's impossible to know what exactly is exaggeration and/or outright lie, but some of what he says is supported by what is sometimes observed in the "exotic dance" industry: dancers using alcohol or drugs to feel able to perform, dancers relying on older, financially established patrons for support, and the phenomenon of people with generally unsavory motives convening in and around strip clubs.

Maybe I'm the only one here, but I do think 'Jorge' is someone who was well-acquainted with Crystal and has certain insights into her life--however biased and colored by his own apparently hurt feelings--that may actually shed some light on her death. I object to his crude and insensitive remarks about her body and I don't think Anton's Jewishness really has anything to do with the matter at hand (although he seems to bring it up about every other paragraph), but I don't think his commentary is totally worthless.

It's impossible to know what exactly is exaggeration and/or outright lie, but some of what he says is supported by what is sometimes observed in the "exotic dance" industry: dancers using alcohol or drugs to feel able to perform, dancers relying on older, financially established patrons for support, and the phenomenon of people with generally unsavory motives convening in and around strip clubs.

Isn't it odd that both Anton and Jorge seem to have a "I was really close to Crystal but she wouldn't let me get too close" complex? It smacks of jealousy or obsession.

What we know about Jorge is:
1. He likes to make numbered lists :lol:

For all the "insider" info Jorge claims to have, he sure takes a lot of cheap shots at Anton and Cystal. (With friends like him, who needs enemies?) He may have known her but I really doubt the accuracy of everything he says. He obviously has pretty intense feelings and opionions all these years later.

I still think Crystal just lived a hard life but always had dreams of being rich and famous. I think being sick combined with drugs is what killed her. The only oddity in my mind is the noise from her apartment. It is possible so was just really sick and yelling for help because she couldn't move. But that piece, if accurate, is pretty bizarre.

how is there such a big discrepancy in her height and weight???? 5 feet tall the coroner wrote 5'7'

105 pounds coroner wrote the body was a well nurished 140.....her boyfriend quesationed it and was told they matched the firnger prints with 2 different agencies

Maybe I'm the only one here, but I do think 'Jorge' is someone who was well-acquainted with Crystal and has certain insights into her life--however biased and colored by his own apparently hurt feelings--that may actually shed some light on her death. I object to his crude and insensitive remarks about her body and I don't think Anton's Jewishness really has anything to do with the matter at hand (although he seems to bring it up about every other paragraph), but I don't think his commentary is totally worthless.

It's impossible to know what exactly is exaggeration and/or outright lie, but some of what he says is supported by what is sometimes observed in the "exotic dance" industry: dancers using alcohol or drugs to feel able to perform, dancers relying on older, financially established patrons for support, and the phenomenon of people with generally unsavory motives convening in and around strip clubs.

Great post, Meg.

One part I do agree with Jorge about in full is that it was terrible for her body to be cremated when there were questions about her cause of death. Pretty much any hope of solving this case was dashed when that was done.

What I want to know is why did law enforcement say nothing about the drug use? If Crystal was a drug addict and prolific drug dealer, I would think there would be some evidence of that in her apartment. Yet we hear nothing about it in the segment. Not to say it isn't true, but I would imagine that would be a palpable theory regarding her demise. Drug use/addiction is vital information.

Watched this UM recently. Natural causes. Viral myocarditis? Maybe a hereditary condition. The complaint of a cold/flu. Sudden cardiac death.

Check out the comment left by Jorge on 07-11-2017. He has a lot of disdain for Crystal. Even if it is all true, it's not how most people would describe a deceased friend. He comments on almost every area of her life, and makes remarks such as,



https://unsolved.com/gallery/crystal-spencer/#comment-14816


Statements like "A person poisoned by Arsenic can be determined as such as long as ashes are available." make me immediately suspicious. That's not exactly common knowledge ...

Watched this UM recently. Natural causes. Viral myocarditis? Maybe a hereditary condition. The complaint of a cold/flu. Sudden cardiac death.

Welcome! :wave:

What waa the name of the apartments she lived at?

What waa the name of the apartments she lived at?

As a Burbank resident, that question interested me as well.

It's good to know that Burbank police were incompetent, angry morons even 30 years ago. When I moved here more than 10 years ago I had my first encounter with those pigs during my first week here. The cashier at a 7-11 was busy with a customer, so I asked him, "Do you know where ____ Street is?" He looked at me with a flat-out expression of, "YOU are talking to ME like I'm an ordinary person?" then proceeded to say (snobbish tone), "are you asking me if I know where it is or what directions you should take to get there?" Alright there, grammatical genius.

Obviously I experienced and heard about much worse, including a guy who told me that when he was held up at gunpoint the pig who questioned him seemed far more interested in flirting with his girlfriend, who was with him at the time.

If you listen to Adam Carolla's show then you know that they're far more interested in issuing jaywalking tickets (and I was literally detained here for jaywalking at 7 AM on a Sunday a few years ago) than busting criminals. They're bored, putrid idiots.

So I wasn't even slightly surprised that they have bungled this case from the jump AND have been rude jerks to the people who were interested in finding her killer.

Hadn’t thought about this case much in a long while. Very early in this thread I expressed some suspicion about Anton - while I still think there is something off about the whole segment, and his role in it, I now think I was being too clever by half 10+ years ago, and that Anton is very unlikely to have been involved.

I also find myself much more sympathetic to the idea that she did simply die of natural causes than I first was. I know he was nobody’s favorite, but bless his heart cocytus I thought actually had some fairly persuasive posts in this thread, particularly when he pointed out that of the four most likely methods of murder (gun shot, stabbing, bludgeoning, and strangulation), and particularly the type of murder this likely would have had to have been, three should have been obvious no matter what state of decomposition the body was in. This would seem to mean Crystal was either strangled (certainly plausible) or probably did die of natural causes. And, given that by all accounts she was in the throes of some illness, however apparently minor, the last time she was confirmed to be alive, it makes the disease theory completely reasonable.

Frankly, if it weren’t for the autopsy being so wildly inconsistent with her actual apparent measurements, I’d really lean definitively toward “natural causes.” But of course this is not the case.

What were the apartments she lived in called?

I've read the last few pages of this thread a few times, but don't think I've ever commented on this case (apologies for digging up an old thread)

I think the only thing that can be taken as certain is that the coroner's office did some incredibly sloppy work and most likely autopsied the wrong body.

I checked the UM Wiki for any further info on the case, saw the info under the "Suspects" header and was intrigued

UM Wiki Entry - Crystal Spencer (https://unsolvedmysteries.fandom.com/wiki/Crystal_Spencer)

*(Much of this info came from articles that were collected and linked in another, older thread here by justins5256 - check them out (https://www.sitcomsonline.com/boards/showthread.php?t=157766&highlight=crystal+spencer))

Not surprisingly, I didn't find any mention of that info in the later pages of this thread. I know the prevailing thinking has many looking for the simplest/easiest explanation ("Occam's Razor") and can definitely understand then the logic behind those that say Crystal either a) died of an unknown illness or b) died from an attack by a crazy "fan"/customer-'client'/jilted suiter etc etc.


That said, the LA Times did mention that the FBI had a file on her. Anton Kline didn't know what was in it and subsequently, he dove off into tin-foil-hat territory with his theory about her being killed because she was passing information to the police.

What reason would the FBI have for keeping a file on some random girl trying to break into Hollywood?? Why too, would they refuse to release that information?? (None of that was part of Anton's conspiracy theory, on the contrary, that's what fueled it.....)

I believe this might be one of those cases where the truth does lie at the bottom of a long, dark rabbit hole

Was there ever proof of the existence of an FBI file on Crystal Spencer, or was this something exaggerated by Kline? It wouldn't surprise me if her name was mentioned as a part of the investigation into McKenna, and he just took that and ran with it. It just seems unlikely that this alleged killer would "torture" her and have her screams and moans being heard repeatedly instead of taking her out quickly, if this was indeed some sort of murder for hire. Sounds like a terrible hitman.

I also cannot stress the fact that an unknown illness, despite seeming like it stretches logic and credibility, is actually the most likely scenario. Earlier this year, I had an ingrown toenail removed, and the podiatrist gave me a steroid shot for minimal fungus on my big toe. The next day I had a terrible fever, and actually passed out in my bathroom. When I woke up, I called 911 and was admitted into shock trauma and have to have a huge chunk of my foot taken off. I was in the hospital for 8 days. What I had was a severe streptococcal infection (do not google that if you just ate) that also came with SIRS syndrome (sepsis) and was borderline "the flesh eating virus". I found out a few months after being discharged that I could have died if I didn't go to the hospital immediately. So if Crystal was telling people for a few days that she had flu like symptoms, I don't see this one as much of a mystery, TBH.

Ive also followed the case throughout the years and on this forum. Ive never been able to track down Anton Kline(Facebook or anywhere else online). Or any of Crystals family to see where they stand on the case today.

Was there ever proof of the existence of an FBI file on Crystal Spencer, or was this something exaggerated by Kline? It wouldn't surprise me if her name was mentioned as a part of the investigation into McKenna, and he just took that and ran with it. It just seems unlikely that this alleged killer would "torture" her and have her screams and moans being heard repeatedly instead of taking her out quickly, if this was indeed some sort of murder for hire. Sounds like a terrible hitman.

I also cannot stress the fact that an unknown illness, despite seeming like it stretches logic and credibility, is actually the most likely scenario. Earlier this year, I had an ingrown toenail removed, and the podiatrist gave me a steroid shot for minimal fungus on my big toe. The next day I had a terrible fever, and actually passed out in my bathroom. When I woke up, I called 911 and was admitted into shock trauma and have to have a huge chunk of my foot taken off. I was in the hospital for 8 days. What I had was a severe streptococcal infection (do not google that if you just ate) that also came with SIRS syndrome (sepsis) and was borderline "the flesh eating virus". I found out a few months after being discharged that I could have died if I didn't go to the hospital immediately. So if Crystal was telling people for a few days that she had flu like symptoms, I don't see this one as much of a mystery, TBH.


I'm on the same page as you where as far as a mysterious illness goes, so I don't necessarily disagree.

1992 LA Times Article
(https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1992-02-24-mn-2042-story.html)
After McKenna’s death, Kline learned that the FBI had been keeping a file on Spencer. The agency made him wait seven months after he requested access to the file and then told him that 21 pages of documents were being withheld. Kline suspected that those records would reveal that Spencer had been providing information on McKenna. And in retaliation, Kline speculated, McKenna may have had her killed.

The way the above paragraph is written though makes it sound like the FBI file did exist independent of Anton's conspiracy theory (and is what prompted my post). Him making that whole point up isn't out of the realm of possibility, but it would sink his credibility even further.

Was there ever proof of the existence of an FBI file on Crystal Spencer, or was this something exaggerated by Kline? It wouldn't surprise me if her name was mentioned as a part of the investigation into McKenna, and he just took that and ran with it. It just seems unlikely that this alleged killer would "torture" her and have her screams and moans being heard repeatedly instead of taking her out quickly, if this was indeed some sort of murder for hire. Sounds like a terrible hitman.

I also cannot stress the fact that an unknown illness, despite seeming like it stretches logic and credibility, is actually the most likely scenario. Earlier this year, I had an ingrown toenail removed, and the podiatrist gave me a steroid shot for minimal fungus on my big toe. The next day I had a terrible fever, and actually passed out in my bathroom. When I woke up, I called 911 and was admitted into shock trauma and have to have a huge chunk of my foot taken off. I was in the hospital for 8 days. What I had was a severe streptococcal infection (do not google that if you just ate) that also came with SIRS syndrome (sepsis) and was borderline "the flesh eating virus". I found out a few months after being discharged that I could have died if I didn't go to the hospital immediately. So if Crystal was telling people for a few days that she had flu like symptoms, I don't see this one as much of a mystery, TBH.

@TheCars1986, I know this is sorta OT but I just wanted to say that sepsis and strep took my Dad out. His problem was diabetes and he had to have his feet hacked off little by little over the years. But sepsis will get you very quickly if you don't get medical help right away, and Dad didn't. I just wanted to say that I am glad that you were able to get the help you needed and that you survived. What you went through I imagine was NOT PRETTY, I've been there too. Just wanted you to know you are not alone. Glad you are doing better!

I also cannot stress the fact that an unknown illness, despite seeming like it stretches logic and credibility, is actually the most likely scenario. Earlier this year, I had an ingrown toenail removed, and the podiatrist gave me a steroid shot for minimal fungus on my big toe. The next day I had a terrible fever, and actually passed out in my bathroom. When I woke up, I called 911 and was admitted into shock trauma and have to have a huge chunk of my foot taken off. I was in the hospital for 8 days. What I had was a severe streptococcal infection (do not google that if you just ate) that also came with SIRS syndrome (sepsis) and was borderline "the flesh eating virus". I found out a few months after being discharged that I could have died if I didn't go to the hospital immediately. So if Crystal was telling people for a few days that she had flu like symptoms, I don't see this one as much of a mystery, TBH.

Holy hell, man! That is nuts. I know sepsis is nothing to mess around with, and luckily more hospitals are treating it with the urgency it deserves. I have know people that have that and it can be deadly quickly. Sorry you went through that but I'm very happy that you have recovered from it. Yikes.

I agree that she could have been really sick and it just caught up with her. She also could have had drug or alcohol issues which compounded the problem (or perhaps even an STD). In that old article, her sister seemed to think Crystal was being dramatic, but many people in the apartment complex heard wailing noises off and on all day. The only thing that is odd to me is that she said she was sick and trying to get ahold of her mom, but if she was that sick, why not call Anton or call for EMS? Maybe she didn't realize how sick she was.


It just seems unlikely that this alleged killer would "torture" her and have her screams and moans being heard repeatedly instead of taking her out quickly, if this was indeed some sort of murder for hire. Sounds like a terrible hitman.

I totally agree on this point. I just don't see her being tortured for that long (especially if she was that loud). It doesn't make sense in that setting. More likely she was just really sick.

Not to sound intentionally mean, but I have to wonder how close she and Anton really were. He makes it sound like they were boyfriend/girlfriend, however watching the segment they didn't seem that close. Plus she was a stripper and it seems like she kept other things from Anton. I get the feeling he was more in the friend zone but he was infatuated with her and couldn't see this for what it was. She probably liked having a smart, normal guy as a friend and she enjoyed their dates. I just didn't get the impression she was in love with him. If she was really sick, wouldn't your boyfriend/love interest be one of the first people you would call? He had stopped over a day or two before to bring her some groceries, but again, it doesn't seem like he was really in that close with her.

@TheCars1986, I know this is sorta OT but I just wanted to say that sepsis and strep took my Dad out. His problem was diabetes and he had to have his feet hacked off little by little over the years. But sepsis will get you very quickly if you don't get medical help right away, and Dad didn't. I just wanted to say that I am glad that you were able to get the help you needed and that you survived. What you went through I imagine was NOT PRETTY, I've been there too. Just wanted you to know you are not alone. Glad you are doing better!

Thank you!

Was there ever proof of the existence of an FBI file on Crystal Spencer, or was this something exaggerated by Kline? It wouldn't surprise me if her name was mentioned as a part of the investigation into McKenna, and he just took that and ran with it. It just seems unlikely that this alleged killer would "torture" her and have her screams and moans being heard repeatedly instead of taking her out quickly, if this was indeed some sort of murder for hire. Sounds like a terrible hitman.

I also cannot stress the fact that an unknown illness, despite seeming like it stretches logic and credibility, is actually the most likely scenario. Earlier this year, I had an ingrown toenail removed, and the podiatrist gave me a steroid shot for minimal fungus on my big toe. The next day I had a terrible fever, and actually passed out in my bathroom. When I woke up, I called 911 and was admitted into shock trauma and have to have a huge chunk of my foot taken off. I was in the hospital for 8 days. What I had was a severe streptococcal infection (do not google that if you just ate) that also came with SIRS syndrome (sepsis) and was borderline "the flesh eating virus". I found out a few months after being discharged that I could have died if I didn't go to the hospital immediately. So if Crystal was telling people for a few days that she had flu like symptoms, I don't see this one as much of a mystery, TBH.

Jeeze, sorry to hear that Cars.

I'm willing to believe the most boring explanation for things because I know that usually the most innocuous things are the heart of a matter, but the whole "she died of an illness" theory doesn't hold water with me. Even in 1988, 911 was a well-known emergency number. She was right next to the phone, and she had the ability to scream.... yet she couldn't pick it up and dial 3 numbers? K. We're supposed to believe-- what-- she couldn't dial 3 numbers, then she just writhed around on the floor as the phone cord wrapped around her body?

I'm willing to believe the most boring explanation for things because I know that usually the most innocuous things are the heart of a matter, but the whole "she died of an illness" theory doesn't hold water with me. Even in 1988, 911 was a well-known emergency number. She was right next to the phone, and she had the ability to scream.... yet she couldn't pick it up and dial 3 numbers? K. We're supposed to believe-- what-- she couldn't dial 3 numbers, then she just writhed around on the floor as the phone cord wrapped around her body?

Going back to my bout with strep/sepsis, when it first struck, I thought I had a fever and that I would sleep/sweat it out. I tried sleeping and couldn't, then felt like I was going to vomit and went to the bathroom before passing out. I woke up some time later drenched it sweat, but my fever felt like it was gone. My foot hurt but other than that, I felt "fine". I wasn't going to call 911 until my wife practically begged me to.

So yeah, I can see someone thinking that they just have the flu not thinking 911 was a worthy call.

Going back to my bout with strep/sepsis, when it first struck, I thought I had a fever and that I would sleep/sweat it out. I tried sleeping and couldn't, then felt like I was going to vomit and went to the bathroom before passing out. I woke up some time later drenched it sweat, but my fever felt like it was gone. My foot hurt but other than that, I felt "fine". I wasn't going to call 911 until my wife practically begged me to.

So yeah, I can see someone thinking that they just have the flu not thinking 911 was a worthy call.

I had a similar situation where I was too weak to even sit up and wouldn't go to the hospital until my parents practically dragged me there. One of the downsides of having "911 is only for emergencies!!" drilled into my head was that unless I was literally dying I didn't think it was an emergency worthy of 911. As a kid (and even into my late teens/early 20s) felt I would be either laughed at or arrested for abusing 911 if I called saying I felt very sick.

Well, I'm not dismissing it ENTIRELY.
For instance, a couple of years ago I met a guy who went blind from bacterial meningitis, and I've heard that it's the most painful thing that you will ever experience in your life. So I know that it's possible. But to me, it's unlikely...

Was there ever proof of the existence of an FBI file on Crystal Spencer, or was this something exaggerated by Kline? It wouldn't surprise me if her name was mentioned as a part of the investigation into McKenna, and he just took that and ran with it. It just seems unlikely that this alleged killer would "torture" her and have her screams and moans being heard repeatedly instead of taking her out quickly, if this was indeed some sort of murder for hire. Sounds like a terrible hitman.

I also cannot stress the fact that an unknown illness, despite seeming like it stretches logic and credibility, is actually the most likely scenario. Earlier this year, I had an ingrown toenail removed, and the podiatrist gave me a steroid shot for minimal fungus on my big toe. The next day I had a terrible fever, and actually passed out in my bathroom. When I woke up, I called 911 and was admitted into shock trauma and have to have a huge chunk of my foot taken off. I was in the hospital for 8 days. What I had was a severe streptococcal infection (do not google that if you just ate) that also came with SIRS syndrome (sepsis) and was borderline "the flesh eating virus". I found out a few months after being discharged that I could have died if I didn't go to the hospital immediately. So if Crystal was telling people for a few days that she had flu like symptoms, I don't see this one as much of a mystery, TBH.

That's awful man

Glad you're okay now.

He posted a few pictures of his foot on Facebook, if I remember correctly....or he described it really well. In any case, it sounded freaking awful and scary and we’re all glad it’s behind him now!

I used to think Crystal was murdered but I agree with the majority now— her death was more than likely natural and a very shoddy investigation followed.

I still have the picture of my foot post surgery as a reminder of what I went through. It ain't pretty.

Re: this Crystal Spencer segment, very odd. I agree it's possible she was murdered. But, it's also very possible that - as has been discussed - she died of an unknown illness.

Re: the authorities "allegedly" having a file on her?! Sounds like possible B.S. to me. As was said, why would they give a damn about an exotic dancer trying to become an actress in L.A.?! I'm sure there are hundreds/thousands of women like her in the Hollywood area.

Not to sound intentionally mean, but I have to wonder how close she and Anton really were. He makes it sound like they were boyfriend/girlfriend, however watching the segment they didn't seem that close. Plus she was a stripper and it seems like she kept other things from Anton. I get the feeling he was more in the friend zone but he was infatuated with her and couldn't see this for what it was. She probably liked having a smart, normal guy as a friend and she enjoyed their dates. I just didn't get the impression she was in love with him. If she was really sick, wouldn't your boyfriend/love interest be one of the first people you would call? He had stopped over a day or two before to bring her some groceries, but again, it doesn't seem like he was really in that close with her.

Agree completely with this. There's obviously no real way to know for sure at this point, but from watching the segment I got the distinct impression that AK was making more of this "relationship" than it actually was. There was a lot he didn't know about CS. It's very possible that, due to his being allegedly connected to the Hollywood "power structure", she thought that getting close to him would be advantageous for her. I.e., given that she was trying to get into the movie business, maybe she felt knowing him would somehow help her career and/or that he would get her opportunities that she wouldn't otherwise have had access to.

I agree with Todd Mueller and Latka Gravis on Anton being a friend and only a friend!

Check out the comment left by Jorge on 07-11-2017. He has a lot of disdain for Crystal. Even if it is all true, it's not how most people would describe a deceased friend. He comments on almost every area of her life, and makes remarks such as,



https://unsolved.com/gallery/crystal-spencer/#comment-14816

Having rewatched this case today, I came to the boards to read a little and saw this post. I then clicked the link and found the comment by Jorge on 7/11/17. While it is definitely brash and not at all friendly toward Crystal, he still makes several good points and what he says makes sense. He also has a ton of detail in his post which leads me to believe that a lot of what he says is true. He clearly believes Anton murdered her (if you click the link, you'll see that Jorge has numerous posts, most recently from earlier this year where he accuses Anton of being responsible for her death). He also says that Crystal was an alcohol and drug abuser who would become violently angry at people who would not give her money or alcohol if she asked for it. People can absolutely die from random illnesses if they're not in good health. Constantly being on drugs and drinking heavily could lead to that.

The whole Anton dynamic is strange. I realize this was almost 40 years ago and cell phones were not a thing yet, but its strange to me that Anton did not go over to her house physically, not just call, to check on her during that week. I don't care how far away my girlfriend lived, if I hadn't heard from her in a while and I were worried, I'd do more than just call. Anton just seems like he has a few screws loose but I doubt he killed her.

Overall, I think it is more likely than not that she succumbed to some sort of sickness she had at the time.

I wonder if she perhaps suffered a psychotic episode from alcohol/drug withdrawal after going cold turkey. Perhaps this also contributed to her death.

Having rewatched this case today, I came to the boards to read a little and saw this post. I then clicked the link and found the comment by Jorge on 7/11/17. While it is definitely brash and not at all friendly toward Crystal, he still makes several good points and what he says makes sense. He also has a ton of detail in his post which leads me to believe that a lot of what he says is true. He clearly believes Anton murdered her (if you click the link, you'll see that Jorge has numerous posts, most recently from earlier this year where he accuses Anton of being responsible for her death). He also says that Crystal was an alcohol and drug abuser who would become violently angry at people who would not give her money or alcohol if she asked for it. People can absolutely die from random illnesses if they're not in good health. Constantly being on drugs and drinking heavily could lead to that.

The whole Anton dynamic is strange. I realize this was almost 40 years ago and cell phones were not a thing yet, but its strange to me that Anton did not go over to her house physically, not just call, to check on her during that week. I don't care how far away my girlfriend lived, if I hadn't heard from her in a while and I were worried, I'd do more than just call. Anton just seems like he has a few screws loose but I doubt he killed her.

Overall, I think it is more likely than not that she succumbed to some sort of sickness she had at the time.

I think Anton thought of himself as more of a mentor to Crystal than a lover. Kind of like a Pygmalion-type relationship.

Having rewatched this case today, I came to the boards to read a little and saw this post. I then clicked the link and found the comment by Jorge on 7/11/17. While it is definitely brash and not at all friendly toward Crystal, he still makes several good points and what he says makes sense. He also has a ton of detail in his post which leads me to believe that a lot of what he says is true. He clearly believes Anton murdered her (if you click the link, you'll see that Jorge has numerous posts, most recently from earlier this year where he accuses Anton of being responsible for her death). He also says that Crystal was an alcohol and drug abuser who would become violently angry at people who would not give her money or alcohol if she asked for it. People can absolutely die from random illnesses if they're not in good health. Constantly being on drugs and drinking heavily could lead to that.

The whole Anton dynamic is strange. I realize this was almost 40 years ago and cell phones were not a thing yet, but its strange to me that Anton did not go over to her house physically, not just call, to check on her during that week. I don't care how far away my girlfriend lived, if I hadn't heard from her in a while and I were worried, I'd do more than just call. Anton just seems like he has a few screws loose but I doubt he killed her.

Overall, I think it is more likely than not that she succumbed to some sort of sickness she had at the time.

I think Anton thought of himself as more of a mentor to Crystal than a lover. Kind of like a Pygmalion-type relationship.

I think Anton thought of himself as more of a mentor to Crystal than a lover. Kind of like a Pygmalion-type relationship.

I got the exact opposite feeling from the segment. I felt like he very much cared for her. Even Crystal's friend said they were in love.

I got the exact opposite feeling from the segment. I felt like he very much cared for her. Even Crystal's friend said they were in love.

I definitely think he was more into her than she was him.

Whoever "Jorge" is has been incessantly posting comments on the UM writeup of this case going up to a few weeks ago. Dude is adamant that Anton Kline poisoned Crystal, and then hurriedly had her remains cremated so no one could ever find a real cause of death. He does bring up a salient point: Anton last spoke with Crystal by phone on May 5th for 15 minutes. She never called him again. Anton tried calling Crystal on May 8th and got a busy signal. He called the phone company and they said that her phone was off the hook. Yet he does nothing in terms of trying to reach her ever again because he claims that he just assumed she went to Japan.

Whoever "Jorge" is has been incessantly posting comments on the UM writeup of this case going up to a few weeks ago. Dude is adamant that Anton Kline poisoned Crystal, and then hurriedly had her remains cremated so no one could ever find a real cause of death. He does bring up a salient point: Anton last spoke with Crystal by phone on May 5th for 15 minutes. She never called him again. Anton tried calling Crystal on May 8th and got a busy signal. He called the phone company and they said that her phone was off the hook. Yet he does nothing in terms of trying to reach her ever again because he claims that he just assumed she went to Japan.

This one seems kind of difficult to filter through Occam's Razor, but my first inclination is to say if he did it, it was probably because he was into her a lot more that she was to him, probably to an unhealthy degree.

I can't see her moving to Japan as something that would make him snap. I can however see her spurning him in some way/for some reason and then him making up that whole story about Japan in order to cover himself

(I can't imagine what kind of job a wannabe actress & stripper would've received from someplace over there........).

I imagine that she could've given him the whole "I like you, but not like *that*" speech and while outwardly calm & collected, something inside him could've snapped. So he plays it off like a friend and then after she comes down with a cold, offers to bring her something - a few groceries, some soup, whatever. He taints whatever it was with something toxic and then a few days later, she eats/drinks/takes it and voila.

One of the theories Anton Kline has tossed around through the years is that a former police officer was involved in Crystal Spencer's death.

A link to an article involving that police officer follows: https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2000-oct-29-me-43962-story.html

(I can't imagine what kind of job a wannabe actress & stripper would've received from someplace over there........).



My impression is that the position was that of a hostess in a men's club in Japan. The same thing Lucie Blackman traveled to Japan to do when she was murdered and was discussed quite a bit in the book People Who Eat Darkness.

Whoever "Jorge" is has been incessantly posting comments on the UM writeup of this case going up to a few weeks ago. Dude is adamant that Anton Kline poisoned Crystal, and then hurriedly had her remains cremated so no one could ever find a real cause of death. He does bring up a salient point: Anton last spoke with Crystal by phone on May 5th for 15 minutes. She never called him again. Anton tried calling Crystal on May 8th and got a busy signal. He called the phone company and they said that her phone was off the hook. Yet he does nothing in terms of trying to reach her ever again because he claims that he just assumed she went to Japan.

I never really thought about this, but it's an interesting theory that Anton may have been involved. I mean, if you are in a relationship with someone and like her the way he appeared to, the last thing you want is for them to take off overseas somewhere. The fact that he seemed so at ease with that seems a little off. And it seems to me like if she was interested in leaving the country that she wouldn't have really been into him. Seems like she may have been just using him to elevate her station in life, creating a similar situation to the Don't You Want me Baby song by Human League then leaving him.

I mean assuming that Anton was interested in her for a long term relationship, her wanting to take off without him would manifest a pretty good motive to want to off her. especially after the things he did for her.

Of course this is just speculation, on the other hand it was largely Anton who did the most to try and keep the investigation into her death going. So I still lean towards it being what it appeared that he just genuinely cared for her even if she was taking off without him. But its interesting to think about nevertheless.

Anton wouldn’t have had the ability to hurriedly have Crystal cremated. That could only be approved by her family.

He posted a few pictures of his foot on Facebook, if I remember correctly....or he described it really well. In any case, it sounded freaking awful and scary and we’re all glad it’s behind him now!

I used to think Crystal was murdered but I agree with the majority now— her death was more than likely natural and a very shoddy investigation followed.

Many years on, I find myself following our esteemed moderator on this. I was the first to jump in 17 (!!!) years ago and say "I think she was murdered," but when I saw this thread near the top today and re-read crystaldawn's first post of the thread, I found myself saying, "You know, that's a damn good question."

Can't go 100% either way but I am much more inclined to a natural causes / some kind of strange overdose explanation now than I was.

Many years on, I find myself following our esteemed moderator on this. I was the first to jump in 17 (!!!) years ago and say "I think she was murdered," but when I saw this thread near the top today and re-read crystaldawn's first post of the thread, I found myself saying, "You know, that's a damn good question."

Can't go 100% either way but I am much more inclined to a natural causes / some kind of strange overdose explanation now than I was.

Well, hello! :wave:

It's funny how many cases get this treatment from me-- as a youth, I was quick to assume foul play or something nefarious. Life experiences have taught me otherwise.

I know it's been a source of discussion on the boards before, but SEVERAL of the "unexplained deaths" I once thought were so mysterious now appear to me to be pretty straightforward suicides. I do not think Crystal committed suicide, to be clear. I still believe it was a natural or accidental death and the underlying "mystery" is the result of a very poorly done investigation.

A recent news story (https://www.yahoo.com/news/two-irish-friends-died-fentanyl-190747220.html) made me think of this case.

The key passage:

Florida officials mislabeled the remains of two Irish nationals who died of drug overdoses, leading to a mix-up of their autopsies and the “highly probable” cremation of the wrong body, authorities said.

Kane Mitchell, 30, and Luke Comiskey, 31, died in April 2022 after consuming fentanyl-laced drugs one of them bought from a man he’d allegedly met a day earlier....

A Florida funeral home shipped the men’s remains to Ireland, according to a letter from a Florida medical examiner’s office. One was cremated and the other was not, per the families’ wishes.

But in July, three months after their deaths, the men’s families noticed discrepancies in the autopsy reports that led authorities to discover an error in the labeling of the remains, the letter said.

Importantly, the mislabeling was not done at the funeral home, but evidently when the bodies were with the coroner, therefore leading to each being autopsied under the wrong name.

Hmmmm...

If Crystal died of natural causes (or an accident) how do you explain the screams that neighbors heard coming from her room? I agree, I think it was either an accident inside her apartment or she died young of natural causes. I used to always assume Crystal was murdered, but mostly because of how UM showed the case in their eyes only. Then again I always leaned to murder due to her screams only!!

However, we never heard that she died by gunshot or via a knife. Then again the killer could have strangled her neck??? That would explain the screams - she screamed after a visitor snapped and tried to choke her and then she died. Or Spencer screamed when she encountered an intruder late at night who then murdered her. My view has changed in 2023ish: we and the neighbors do not truly know when they heard screams, right? Her neighbors, that couple, reported the screams days after, right? Not right away like seconds or minutes after the scream(s)? How do they know it came from her apartment then??!! Unless its a neighbor friend next door who is familiar with her voice? [So one lady could have screamed in a fight on a Monday, for example, and Crystal died of natural causes 4 days later.]

I think the screams came from another nearby apartment from a lady who got in a fight with her boyfriend a very bad fight - maybe spousal abuse. Or perhaps someone broke in someones apartment and tried to attack another lady and that explains the screams. And it just so happens that Crystal died around that time due to natural causes, but not exactly at the same time - maybe 2 days later or 5. This could happen - i mean the timing is odd but still. Less likely though. Or were some kids watching a vhs horror movie and some "scream queen" actress made the loud noise; then the kids turned up the volume to the max level as a cruel joke on their neighbors? My view changed this past year but it still kinda seems like she was murdered....


Well, hello! :wave:

It's funny how many cases get this treatment from me-- as a youth, I was quick to assume foul play or something nefarious. Life experiences have taught me otherwise.

I know it's been a source of discussion on the boards before, but SEVERAL of the "unexplained deaths" I once thought were so mysterious now appear to me to be pretty straightforward suicides. I do not think Crystal committed suicide, to be clear. I still believe it was a natural or accidental death and the underlying "mystery" is the result of a very poorly done investigation.

I think Crystal having some kind of psychotic episode and dying from an overdose should not be excluded.

I had no idea that Susan Akin-Taylor (neighbor interviewed in segment) was Miss America in 1986, and that her father and grandfather were members of the KKK and were very likely invovled in the murders (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murders_of_Chaney,_Goodman,_and_Schwerner) of Chaney, Goodman, and Schwerner (Mississippi Burning).

https://www.reckon.news/news/2024/09/missed-america-susan-akin-the-making-breaking-and-comeback-of-a-pageant-queen.html

^ Lengthy article about her life and struggles. Briefly mentions moving to California to pursue a career in acting before moving back to Mississippi where she cheated on her then husband (from UM segment) with his doctor.

I had no idea that Susan Akin-Taylor (neighbor interviewed in segment) was Miss America in 1986, and that her father and grandfather were members of the KKK and were very likely invovled in the murders (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murders_of_Chaney,_Goodman,_and_Schwerner) of Chaney, Goodman, and Schwerner (Mississippi Burning).

https://www.reckon.news/news/2024/09/missed-america-susan-akin-the-making-breaking-and-comeback-of-a-pageant-queen.html

^ Lengthy article about her life and struggles. Briefly mentions moving to California to pursue a career in acting before moving back to Mississippi where she cheated on her then husband (from UM segment) with his doctor.

She's one of several people interviewed on UM with an interesting background and who's life circumstances to a way for the bad afterwards.