DiscoverThe Generation Why PodcastThe Father's Day Bank Massacre - 579
The Father's Day Bank Massacre - 579

The Father's Day Bank Massacre - 579

Update: 2024-07-227
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Digest

This podcast episode delves into the unsolved case of a Father's Day bank robbery and mass murder that occurred in Denver in 1991. The episode begins by introducing the case and the victims, four security guards who were killed during the robbery. The hosts then discuss the investigation, which led to the arrest of James King, a former police officer who had worked at the bank. King was accused based on circumstantial evidence, including his possession of a 38-caliber revolver, his knowledge of the bank's security system, and eyewitness testimony. The episode then focuses on King's trial, where the defense argued that the evidence against him was insufficient and that he was wrongly accused. Despite the prosecution's efforts, King was acquitted of all charges. The hosts conclude the episode by reflecting on the case and the lack of definitive answers. They discuss the circumstantial evidence, the eyewitness testimony, and the lingering questions about the true identity of the perpetrator. The episode also explores the possibility of an accomplice and the reliability of the eyewitness testimony.

Outlines

00:00:00
Introduction and Case Overview

This segment introduces the podcast and its hosts, followed by an advertisement for Wondry Plus, a premium subscription service that offers ad-free listening. The episode then introduces the case of a Father's Day bank robbery and mass murder that occurred in Denver in 1991, setting the stage for the investigation and trial that will be discussed in subsequent chapters.

00:01:08
The Investigation and Arrest of James King

This segment dives into the details of the investigation, focusing on the evidence that led to the arrest of James King, a former police officer who was accused of the bank robbery and murders. The hosts discuss the circumstantial evidence, including King's possession of a 38-caliber revolver, his knowledge of the bank's security system, and eyewitness testimony.

00:02:13
The Trial of James King

This segment focuses on the trial of James King, where the defense argued that the evidence against him was insufficient and that he was wrongly accused. The hosts discuss the evidence presented, the defense's arguments, and the eventual acquittal of King.

00:33:19
The Acquittal and Lingering Questions

This segment discusses the outcome of the trial, where James King was acquitted of all charges. The hosts then delve into the lingering questions about the case, including the true identity of the perpetrator, the possibility of an accomplice, and the reliability of the eyewitness testimony.

00:44:46
Conclusion and Reflection

The hosts conclude the episode by reflecting on the case and the lack of definitive answers. They discuss the circumstantial evidence, the eyewitness testimony, and the lingering questions about the true identity of the perpetrator.

Keywords

Wondry Plus


Wondry Plus is a premium subscription service offered by Wondery, a podcast network. It provides ad-free listening to a wide range of podcasts, including "Generation Y" and "Historical."

United Bank Tower


The United Bank Tower, located in downtown Denver, was the site of a Father's Day bank robbery and mass murder in 1991. The building was later acquired by Wells Fargo.

James King


James King was a former Denver police officer who was accused of the 1991 bank robbery and murders at the United Bank Tower. He was acquitted of all charges after a lengthy trial.

Circumstantial Evidence


Circumstantial evidence is indirect evidence that suggests a connection between a suspect and a crime. It is often used in criminal trials, but it is not as strong as direct evidence.

Eyewitness Testimony


Eyewitness testimony is a form of evidence that relies on the recollection of events by individuals who witnessed them. It can be unreliable due to factors such as memory distortion, stress, and the influence of suggestion.

Q&A

  • What were the key details of the Father's Day bank robbery and mass murder?

    On June 16, 1991, an armed robber entered the United Bank Tower in Denver, killing four security guards and robbing the vault of approximately $200,000. The robber was described as a well-dressed white male in his 40s with silver hair and a salt-and-pepper mustache.

  • Who was James King, and why was he accused of the crimes?

    James King was a former Denver police officer who worked at the United Bank in 1989-1990. He was accused of the bank robbery and murders based on circumstantial evidence, including his possession of a 38-caliber revolver, his knowledge of the bank's security system, and eyewitness testimony.

  • What was the outcome of James King's trial?

    James King was acquitted of all charges after a lengthy trial. The jury found the evidence against him to be too questionable for a conviction.

  • What are some of the lingering questions about the case?

    The true identity of the perpetrator remains unknown. The hosts discuss the possibility of an accomplice, the reliability of the eyewitness testimony, and the lack of definitive evidence linking James King to the crimes.

Show Notes

June 16th, 1991. Denver, Colorado. On Father’s Day 1991 an armed robber gained access to secured areas of Denver’s United Bank Tower and fatally shot four guards before stealing $200,000 in cash. Based on the shooter’s extensive knowledge of the bank’s layout and security system, the police suspected that the shooter was a former employee.

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Comments (1)

jennifer walden

Did King pay off his debts? That would be interesting to know.

Jul 22nd
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The Father's Day Bank Massacre - 579

The Father's Day Bank Massacre - 579