Ep 4. Matriarchs of Murder

Matriarchs of Murder is the fourth episode of season six of the true crime series Deadly Women. This episode explores the cases of three women who committed murder with the supposed goal of protecting their families or loved ones.

The first case focuses on Ruth Neslund, a devoted mother who was driven to kill by her desire to protect her son. Ruth's son was being bullied at school, and when she took her concerns to the principal and the police with no success, she decided to take matters into her own hands. Ruth shot and killed the teenager who had been harassing her son, and claimed self-defense. However, investigators found evidence that suggested Ruth had planned the murder in advance, and she was eventually convicted and sentenced to life in prison.

The second case revolves around Eileen Huber, a mother and nurse who began killing elderly patients in her care. Eileen believed that she was providing a merciful end to their suffering, and even forged do-not-resuscitate orders to ensure that her patients would not be revived. She eventually confessed to her crimes and was sentenced to life in prison.

The third and final case features Lorena Salas, a young woman who was deeply devoted to her family. When her younger brother was murdered by a rival gang member, Lorena became obsessed with seeking revenge. She and three accomplices plotted to kidnap and kill the man responsible for her brother's death, but their plan went awry when the victim managed to escape. Lorena and her accomplices were eventually caught by police and sentenced to life in prison.

Throughout the episode, interviews with law enforcement officials, legal experts, and those who knew the killers offer insight into the complex motivations behind these crimes. The show also delves into the cultural and societal factors that may have influenced these women to turn to murder as a means of protection.

Matriarchs of Murder is a thought-provoking episode that raises questions about the limits of maternal love and the darker aspects of familial devotion. Viewers will be left wondering whether these women truly believed they were acting in the best interest of their loved ones or if their motivations were more sinister.