Episode 467: The Murder Of Elizabeth Riser & The Attempted Murder Of Brandi Hicks

On May 23, 2000, teens Elizabeth "Liz" Reiser and Brandi Hicks went down to the local video store in New Philadelphia, Ohio to rent a movie. While there, they met a man who told them he had no way to get home and would pay them $20 if they would give him a ride. Both girls believed in helping their fellow human, so they agreed after a bit of hesitation.

What began as a routine act of charity quickly spiraled out of control, resulting in the murder of Liz Reiser and the attempted rape and attempted murder of Brandi Hicks by the man they had intended to help, Mathew Vaca. The crimes committed against Reiser and Hicks were brutal and sent shockwaves through the small Ohio community.

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My Daily Manifest

Love this podcast and these ladies.
Listen to you daily and find excuses to take a walk, clean, work on mind numbing projects all so I can hear you more!

Not Disrespectful to victims

Just like any other crime series, Morbid covers horrible parts of people’s lives but they do it with compassion for the victims and their families. The only disrespect displayed is towards the people who commit atrocious crimes. Cool if there banter isn’t your thing but calling them out for something they very seriously try to not do is messed up.

Awesome Research and Presentation

I enjoy listening to you both. Your research is commendable and your presentation of the cases holds my attention from beginning to end!
Question: At the beginning of Liz’s story you reported that the brother told his parents that Brandi was walking by the river and Liz drowned, but the officer didn’t tell him that. Did you come back to that later in the story? If do, , I must have missed it. At first I thought the boy was going to know something…or psychic:) Thank you, Ladies!

Excellent podcast if you like true crime

Definitely held my attention. Some can be very boring. Their personalities sine through.
Will be a life long follower.

Disrespectful to victims

Casual humor around sensitive subject not my taste
Subject matter shouldnt be used as gossip/entertainment