Riverwalk
Summary
Journalist Patrick Radden-Keefe recounts the mysterious 2019 death of 19-year-old Zach Brettler, who vanished after claiming to be a Russian oligarch’s son. His body was found in the Thames, leading to a flawed police investigation involving two men Zach had deceived. Despite evidence suggesting foul play, no charges were filed, leaving his parents to grapple with an inconclusive inquest and their son’s complex legacy.
Topics discussed
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Zach Brettler's disappearance and the mysterious visitor
Zach's background, personality, and family dynamics
Zach's secret life, fake identity, and new associates
The discovery of the body and initial police confusion
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Investigation into Akbar Shamji and Varinder Sharma
Parents' private investigation and uncovering lies
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The coroner's inquest and inconclusive findings
Aftermath, book publication, and closing thoughts
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