Box in the Basement
"Box in the Basement" is a compelling new podcast created by Arlene, a woman whose life was forever changed by a family tragedy. The unsolved murder of her Uncle Leon Laurales serves as the catalyst for this investigative series. Disturbed by the lackluster investigation and the mystery that still surrounds his case, Arlene dives deep into the details of her uncle's story, uncovering the many problems that plagued the investigation. Her journey doesn't stop there, as she expands her focus to other unsolved cases in Central Texas. Each episode of "Box in the Basement" promises to shed light on the overlooked and forgotten mysteries in her local community, hoping to find answers and justice for those who have been silenced.
Box in the Basement
Aliens, Espionage, or Murder? Inside Texas’s Most Bizarre Missing Persons Case: The Patterson's
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In this episode of Box in the Basement, we examine one of Texas’s most enduring cold cases: the mysterious disappearance of William and Margaret Patterson of El Paso in 1957.
The wealthy couple vanished without warning, leaving behind their home, business, finances, and even Margaret’s beloved cat. A strange phone call, a suspicious telegram, questionable letters, and decades of unanswered questions fueled theories ranging from voluntary disappearance to espionage, domestic violence, and murder.
Despite multiple investigations and alleged evidence surfacing years later, no definitive answers have ever been found. Nearly 70 years later, the fate of the Pattersons remains unknown.
Was this an elaborate escape? A crime covered up? Or something even darker?
We break down the timeline, key evidence, and leading theories—and invite listeners to decide for themselves.
🔗 Sources & Further Reading
- CBS4: El Paso Couple Vanishes
- KFOX: Vanished Investigation
- Mental Floss: Patterson Mystery
- Missing Wiki: Margaret Patterson
- Charley Project: William Patterson
- Find a Grave: William Patterson
- Find a Grave: Margaret Patterson
- ChipChick: Strange Disappearance
- Charley Ross Blog: Patterson Case
Support Box in the Basement & Our Causes
- Leon Laurales: Website & GoFundMe
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- Donate to Seasons of Justice
- Listen to Darkcast Network Shows
- Join Uncovered.com
- Donate to Project Cold Case