Broken: The Black Dahlia Murder - Part Five: Severed
Once Upon A Crime
Esther Ludlow
4.6 • 5K Ratings
🗓️ 25 November 2025
⏱️ 46 minutes
🧾️ Download transcript
Summary
In Part Five of Broken: The Black Dahlia Murder, we examine the discovery of Elizabeth Short’s mutilated body, the forensic evidence revealed by the autopsy, and how early investigative missteps and media sensationalism derailed the search for her killer.
We break down the crime scene on Norton Avenue, the medical examiner’s key findings—including signs of strangulation, postmortem mutilation, and the surgical precision of the bisection—and how these details shaped investigators’ understanding of the murder.
About This Series
BROKEN: The Black Dahlia Murder is a six-part Once Upon a Crime original series.
Through extensive research, historical records, and firsthand accounts, Esther Ludlow uncovers the truth behind America’s most infamous unsolved murder, separating fact from fiction to rediscover the real woman behind the myth.
Featured Guest: William J. Mann
In this episode of Once Upon a Crime, we’re joined by William J. Mann, acclaimed author and historian, whose work brings the glamour and the darkness of old Hollywood vividly to life. You’ll hear clips from my interview with him as we discuss his latest book, Black Dahlia: Murder, Monsters, and Madness in Midcentury Hollywood — a gripping new take on one of America’s most infamous unsolved murders.
👉 Pre-order the book here: Black Dahlia: Murder, Monsters, and Madness in Midcentury Hollywood
To explore more of William J. Mann’s fascinating work — including his previous bestsellers and a calendar of upcoming appearances — visit his author page on Simon & Schuster.
📚 Sources
Severed: The True Story of the Black Dahlia Murder by John Gilmore
The Black Dahlia: Murder, Monsters, and Madness in Midcentury Hollywood by William J. Mann (upcoming)
Contemporary newspaper archives, LAPD records, and witness interviews
🎧 Next Time on Broken
We’ll examine the “Black Dahlia Avenger” letters, the controversial Dr. George Hodel theory, and I’ll share my own conclusions about who killed Elizabeth Short and why.
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Transcript
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| 0:00.0 | Hey, true crime fans, want to travel with us? |
| 0:05.0 | Tickets are officially on sale for our very first trip, and it's to Mexico City, and we want you to join us. |
| 0:13.0 | We'll spend four unforgettable days in Mexico City from March 27th to 30th, 2026. |
| 0:19.0 | You'll experience the real CDMX, with local guides to sit mescal, |
| 0:23.8 | eat tacos like locals, and explore one of the world's most vibrant cities, safely and |
| 0:28.9 | stress-free. It will be a trip you'll be talking about for years to come, and one you'll experience |
| 0:34.5 | with me, Lorena, and a killer crew of podcast fans just like you. |
| 0:39.2 | Your spot includes meals, activities, and expert guides, all for $1951. |
| 0:45.4 | Flight's not included, but everything else? Handled. |
| 0:48.7 | We've got just 8 to 20 spots, so don't wait. Book now and let's make memories in Mexico together. Click the link in the show notes to reserve your spot today. |
| 1:04.8 | The wait is over. Dive into Audible's most anticipated collection, the best of 2025, featuring top |
| 1:13.3 | audiobooks, podcasts, and originals across all genres. Our editors have carefully curated this |
| 1:20.0 | year's must-listens, from brilliant hidden gems to the busiest new releases. Every title in |
| 1:26.6 | this collection has earned its spot. This is your go-to for the |
| 1:30.4 | absolute best in 2025 audio entertainment. Whether you love thrillers, romance, or non-fiction, |
| 1:36.8 | your next favorite listen awaits. Discover why there's more to imagine when you listen at |
| 1:41.5 | audible.com slash best of the year. This podcast details true crime |
| 1:47.0 | cases. It contains adult themes and may contain descriptions of violence. It is not intended for |
| 1:52.9 | children. Listener discretion is advised. Thank you for joining me for today's episode of Once Upon a Crime. |
| 2:07.4 | This week, we continue the series about one of the most infamous crimes in California history, |
| 2:12.7 | the Black Dahlia murder. |
| 2:14.7 | The story of the Black Dahlia reaches its most horrifying moment on a quiet winter morning in Los Angeles, |
... |
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