CLASSIC: The Devil and The Rain: The Case of Don Decker
Summary
This episode of Stuff They Don't Want You To Know examines the 1983 case of Don Decker, an inmate who allegedly caused indoor rain and levitation after attending his abusive grandfather’s funeral. The hosts recount witness accounts of supernatural phenomena, including water defying gravity and Decker’s reaction to religious symbols, which led to multiple attempted exorcisms. They also explore skeptical explanations, such as ice dams and the potential influence of sensationalized media coverage on witness testimony.
Topics discussed
Intro, ads, and Hitchhiker's Guide reference
Don Decker's background and furlough for funeral
The incident: Visions, scratches, and indoor rain
Police response and landlord's investigation
Exorcism attempts and the rain stops
Rain continues in jail and warden's office
Analysis: Possession vs. psychokinetic powers
Critique of paranormal TV and investigator credentials
Mid-roll advertisements
Scientific explanation: Ice dams and weather
Don Decker's later life and arson conviction
Listener call-in instructions and outro ads
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