She was 17. Full of dreams, ready to start her first job, and just weeks away from graduating high school. But in late 1988, Junko Furuta’s life was stolen in one of Japan’s most shocking and heartbreaking crimes. Held captive for 44 days, her suffering exposed not only the darkness of her attackers but also the failings of a system meant to protect her.
In this episode of Sleepless at 3AM, I take you inside the haunting case that shook Japan: the cruelty she endured, the justice that fell short, and the echoes of her story that still linger today. This isn’t just a true crime story—it’s a story about fear, silence, and the fight to remember a young girl whose voice was taken far too soon.
Ashley Bocanegra was a 30-year-old mother who had just started rebuilding her life—new job, new goals, and a quiet home in a gated Georgia community where she hoped to raise her son in peace. But behind those gates, a twisted web of jealousy, betrayal, and rage was already tightening around her.
What started as a secret office romance ended in a brutal, calculated ambush—one carried out not by strangers, but by a teenage girl and a woman who saw Ashley not as a person… but as a threat that needed to be eliminated.
And the most chilling part?
They filmed it.
Then laughed about it.
In this episode brought to us by Sophia, I'll be diving into the shocking murder of Ashley Bocanegra—a case that will leave you angry, heartbroken, and haunted by the coldness of the people who took her life.
On April 20th, 1999, two high school seniors walked into Columbine High School with guns, explosives, and a plan that would shatter countless lives and change the way we think about school safety forever. In this episode, I walk you through the timeline of that devastating day—what happened minute by minute, who was lost, and how those who survived are still carrying the weight. You’ll hear about moments of bravery, heartbreak, and resilience, as well as the questions that still haunt us more than two decades later.
Whether you think you know the story or you’re hearing the details for the first time, this is an episode that’s not just about what happened—it's about why it still matters.
Grab a blanket, something to snack on, and settle in. This is Columbine.
Show Notes:
Columbine Memorial
ColumbineMemorial.org
Transcript of the basement tapes:
https://schoolshooters.info/sites/default/files/columbine_basement_tapes_1.0.pdf
Rachel’s Challenge
https://rachelschallenge.org
Voices of Columbine - The Family of Matthew Kechter
https://extras.denverpost.com/news/kechter0416.htm
Daniel Mauser’s Memorial Site
DanielMauser.com
Forensic Recreation by VIPPrimo on Youtube
https://youtu.be/t6ywBBrwt9A?si=-2wqWVwgpjM_nq-9
Long before the gunfire and headlines, there were journals, warning signs, and choices. In this episode, I go back—before the massacre at Columbine High School—to examine the lives of Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold. Who were they really? Were they bullied outcasts, psychopaths in the making, or something else entirely? I’ll walk you through their friendships, their online footprints, their disturbing journals, and the chilling preparations that led up to April 20, 1999. This isn’t about excusing what they did—it’s about understanding how they got there. Because the warning signs were there. And they were loud.
Dylan Klebold’s Journal Entries & Other Writings:
https://schoolshooters.info/sites/default/files/klebold_journal_0.pdf
Dylan’s Journal (Facsimile)
https://schoolshooters.info/sites/default/files/klebold_journal_facsimile.pdf
Eric Harris’ Journal Entries:
https://schoolshooters.info/sites/default/files/harris_journal_0.pdf
Eric’s Online Content:
https://schoolshooters.info/sites/default/files/Eric_Harris_Online.pdf
In today’s Dark History story, we’re gonna check out one of the most brutal and tragic chapters of Dutch history. The De Witt brothers, Johan and Cornelis, were once powerful figures in the Dutch Republic, but in 1672, their world would unravel in the most horrific way. Betrayed, hunted, and publicly executed by a mob driven by political hatred, the brothers’ violent end marked a turning point in the nation's political landscape. Join me as we explore their rise, their fall, and the gruesome legacy that haunts Dutch history to this day.
The Corpses of the De Witt Brothers Is part of the Rijksmuseum's permanent collection and is accessible to the public. View the painting through the digital catalog here: Rijksmuseum.nl
A pizza delivery, a collar bomb, and a scavenger hunt with deadly stakes. In this episode, I unravel the bizarre and horrifying case of Brian Wells—an ordinary man caught in an extraordinary and sinister plot. Was he a victim or a co-conspirator? Who were the twisted minds behind the plan, and how did they find each other? From frozen bodies in freezers to shocking confessions years later, this story is stranger than fiction—and far more disturbing.
When Alison Botha's life was violently shattered one night in 1994, survival seemed impossible — yet against all odds, she fought back. In this episode, I take you through Alison’s story: her unimaginable attack, her relentless will to live, the groundbreaking trial that followed, and the legacy she built from her pain. From the darkest corners of human cruelty to the astonishing power of hope, this is a story I will never forget — and I don't think you will either. Stay with me as I uncover the true meaning of resilience, survival, and the triumph of the human spirit.
In 2007, the world of professional wrestling was shaken to its core by an unthinkable tragedy. Chris Benoit was a world-renowned wrestler, celebrated for his technical skill and dedication to his craft. But behind the curtain was a man spiraling into darkness. This week, I'm giving you a special episode while I am recovering from surgery. My boyfriend, JJ will be narrating my research as we dive into the chilling and heartbreaking story of the Benoit family murders—a case that forced fans, professionals, and medical experts to confront uncomfortable truths about brain trauma, mental health, and the cost of fame.
In today’s episode, we'll dive into the tragic and chilling case of Preston Lord, a young man whose life was brutally cut short by a group of teens known as the Gilbert Goons. What seemed like an ordinary night at a house party turned into a deadly attack that would shake the community to its core. Stick around as we unravel the story of violence, gang mentality, and a justice system that failed to act until it was too late.
Join me for a special live episode of Sleepless at 3AM as I guest on Invasions101's Twitch channel for another Ask Rae Anything session! Catch the unscripted LIVE, where I answer some of your burning questions.
Want to support the show?
Join the $5 Sleepyheads tier to gain early access to episodes, a live 24/7 chat with myself and other listeners, as well as bonus content!
If you join the 3AM Sigil tier, you can enjoy all the benefits of the $5 tier, but you'll also have access to heartfelt interviews with the families I work with, and a portion of the proceeds from that tier will be donated to a family I'm working with.
Abandoned halls whisper with the echoes of the past, and shadows stretch where the light dares not linger. The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum is more than just a decaying relic—its walls hold the stories of suffering, madness, and restless spirits. From inhumane treatments to chilling paranormal encounters, this asylum’s dark history refuses to be forgotten. Dare to step inside? Make yourself comfortable, curl up with a blanket, and grab something to snack on—because this episode of Sleepless at 3AM will haunt you long after it ends
Want to support the show?
Join the $5 Sleepyheads tier to gain early access to episodes, a live 24/7 chat with myself and other listeners, as well as bonus content!
If you join the 3AM Sigil tier, you can enjoy all the benefits of the $5 tier, but you'll also have access to heartfelt interviews with the families I work with, and a portion of the proceeds from that tier will be donated to a family I'm working with.
She was a rising star with a bright future, known for her roles in "The Land Before Time" and "All Dogs Go To Heaven," but behind the scenes, 10 year old Judith Barsi and her mother, Maria, were trapped in a cycle of fear and abuse at the hands of Judith's father, Jozsef. In this episode, I uncover the heartbreaking reality behind Hollywood's lost child star and the warning signs that went ignored- until it was too late.
My curiosity was peaked when I first heard of the world's most mysterious book. Join me for a short story about the Voynich Manuscript—a baffling, ancient text written in an unknown script that's adorned with bizarre illustrations. Discover its history, explore a fascinating theory or two, and take a break with me <3
Show Notes:
The complete Voynich Manuscript
Join us for an eye-opening episode as we uncover the depths of corruption within the Little Elm Police Department. From deceit to cover-ups, we'll explore how these actions have impacted the community and justice system. Plus, hear the latest updates on Haley's journey and the progress being made. This is an episode you won't want to miss!
Show notes:
Justice for Haley Cheney FB Pagehttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559824138434
Sign the petition to reopen Haley’s case <3https://www.change.org/p/reopen-the-haley-cheney-case-and-demand-justice
Haley’s Cashapp is $Justice4HaleyCheneyUse Haley’s tag to donate money into the fund to help the family with buying Haley a headstone, and furthering Haley’s case.
Moyer
https://dentonrc.com/news/crime/ex-little-elm-detective-pleads-guilty-to-stealing-drug-evidence/article_65cdf8bc-9d51-11ef-ab81-9b9bda316847.html
Ranger Clare Barnes loses his qualified immunityhttps://caselaw.findlaw.com/court/us-5th-circuit/1857439.html
Keith currently being sued
https://www.pacermonitor.com/public/case/53284138/Demunbrun_v_Estep_et_al
Incident regarding Mayor’s sonhttps://www.cbsnews.com/texas/news/christian-james-cornelious-police-colony-stabbing-critical-suspect-arrested/
Haley Lynn Cheney was 24 years old before she was found shot in her car at her boyfriend's residence. I have been working closely with the Cheney and Alvarado families to put this episode together, and share Haley's story with you. This is a call to action to speak out and help us reopen Haley's case.
If you feel so inclined to help the family financially in their endeavor, you can donate to Haley's account at $Justice4HaleyCheney on Cashapp, to help the family pay for legal fees or hiring professionals needed. They would also like to buy a Headstone for Haley's grave. I encourage everyone to please sign the petition to help us demand justice at https://www.change.org/p/reopen-the-haley-cheney-case-and-demand-justice
'
If you're unable to donate--that's ok! Please help us by sharing!!!
Justice for Haley Cheney FB Pagehttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559824138434
Haley’s Obituary and Tribute video can be found at Laurel Oaks Funeral Home & Memorial Park’s website.https://www.laureloaksfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Haley-Lynn-Cheney?obId=30071020
Haley’s Eulogy. Read by Jackie Alvarado.https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/i4tk4amhk9ag2bjcpuiyt/Screen_Recording_20240717_093428_YouTube.mp4?e=1&fbclid=IwY2xjawIL3Q9leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHUz8hlo1H8zJBtHZpTxvepi3um246Cd_E7OeYTLjqOxyVx6uWaNt21mUFQ_aem_kbb0DUMUeZ6JaBnPZ_Wd2A&rlkey=1108i61mexaeiz9wb9cxfriy9&st=twyvdois&dl=0
Jackie’s Tiktok is @Jstewart8584
“Memories” performed by Alec Chambershttps://music.youtube.com/watch?v=0pKH6HyQy6U&si=cdOjLOS_2rSFM8kY
Hey guys! This was a really fun segment to put together, thank every single one of you for the questions! If you didn't hear your question, or you didn't get the chance to ask, just comment on any social media post with the hashtag #AskRaeAnything or #ARA for short. It was fun answering these amazing questions and I can't wait for the next volume!!
In this gripping episode, I delve into the harrowing and heart-wrenching true crime story of Sylvia Likens, a young girl whose life was cut tragically short. Join me as I uncover the disturbing details of her ordeal, explore the dark circumstances that led to her untimely death, and reveal the case that shook a community. With chilling facts and a deep dive into the events, this episode promises to be as unforgettable as it is unsettling.
Visit Sylvia's Child Advocacy Center's page, where you can learn more about the important work they do for children experiencing abuse.
https://sylviascac.org
Hey guys!
This announcement is real and unedited, I just wanted to sit down with you & talk about some things going on.
I was entirely too frustrated on Friday, when my external hard drive went rogue, and it caused my chronic illness to flare up so I had to leave it alone.
I am working steadily to get this episode put together and uploaded for all of us to enjoy.
I worked hard putting everything together, and with this hiccup, I have to start over, however, I'm optimistic that things will work out in the end.
My thoughts are kind of all over the place, so enjoy my half thought out idea of an announcement.
A bit about my chronic illness, I have fibromyalgia and CSM. My nerves are constantly firing pain signals to my brain, and I have a difficult time functioning normally, but now finding out that I have Cervical spondylosis myelopathy which means my spinal cord is compacted. This surgery is risky, as the doctor told me that there is a risk of paralysis, but it's a risk I'm willing to face. I've thought long and hard about my options, and since he says there is a 30% chance I'll regain some of my mobility, than I will gladly take it! Due to the CSM, my limbs are weak, when my neck pops I'm having numbness in my arms, as well as copious amounts of discomfort and excruciating pain that is exacerbated by my fibromyalgia. I know my health is more important than a schedule or an episode, but I thoroughly enjoy podcasting and putting up content for you is something I love doing!
Thank you for hanging with me, despite the challenges, and I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Hey there! My name is Rae, and I'm a 39-year-old from a small town in Georgia. I'm just the weirdo in the corner, holding her tri-paw’d pomeranian, telling you about everything that keeps me up at night. Whether it's True Crime, Dark History, or Conspiracy Theories, I'm here to share my passion for the mysterious, the unknown, the spook, and my very own particular brand of weird with all of you. Thank you for checking out my work. This show would not be possible without each and every one of you. <3
Get ready to dive into some of the most fascinating and mysterious disappearances and phenomena out there. I’ll take you through the Bermuda Triangle's eerie tales, the spooky Hoia Baciu Forest, and the mysterious vanishing of Flight MH370. We will also explore the ghost ship Mary Celeste, the chilling story of the Sodder Children, and the puzzling Phoenix Lights. Plus, don't miss the strange case of Lars Mittank, the heartbreaking Beaumont Children disappearance, the ghostly SS Ourang Medan, and the enigmatic Roanoke Colony. It's a rollercoaster of intrigue and mystery you won't want to miss!