Due to the graphic nature of this episode, listener discretion is advised.

This episode includes discussions of abuse, torture, sexual situations, and murder.

Consider this one deciding how and when you'll listen.

On September 18, 1988, 22-year-old Michelle Gordon sat in the passenger seat of a blue

van, speeding down Delaware's Route 40.

She didn't know the driver, but she didn't mind.

He had a six-pack of beer.

As far as she was concerned, he was good company.

After all, she was used to adventure, and this was no exception.

Or so she thought.

When the man at the wheel finally stopped the van, the pair got into the back.

Within seconds, he was pinning her down, a blade in his hands.

Michelle tried to thrash away from her abductor, but her cheek pressed against the van's blue carpeting.

Then, slowly, gentle as a kiss, the man pressed the knife into Michelle's skin.

She screamed under her duct tape, while he drew a thick, bloody line from the top of her thigh to her knee, to her ankle.

Michelle sobbed, likely praying for mercy or death whichever came first,

but the worst was yet to come, starting with her other leg.

Hi, I'm Greg Poulson.

This is Serial Killers, a Spotify original from podcast.

Every episode we dive into the minds and madness of Serial Killers.

Today, we're exploring the terrifying murders of Stephen Bryan Pennell, Delaware's first

confirmed Serial Killer.

...