Ep 9. Monserrate Shirley & Mark Leonard

In Killer Couples season 7 episode 9, viewers are taken on a deep dive of the highly publicized and scary 2012 explosion that occurred in Indianapolis, Indiana. The episode highlights the murder of Dion and Jennifer Longworth, who tragically lost their lives in their home on November 10th. As the investigation begins, it's revealed that this wasn't just a tragic accident; it was a well-planned and executed crime.

The episode focuses on the two main suspects in the case, Monserrate Shirley and Mark Leonard. Both had been in a romantic relationship for over two years at the time of the explosion. Throughout the episode, viewers learn about the couple's financial troubles and find out why they may have been driven to commit such a terrible crime.

As firefighters work to put out the blaze, evidence starts to mount against the couple. The investigation reveals that Shirley and Leonard in the weeks leading up to the explosion, had taken out exorbitant insurance policies on their household belongings and possessions. When investigators were analyzing the scene, they discovered the origin of the explosion came from within the home, which was strange because they believed a gas leak caused the explosion at first. Through fire investigation, they discovered that the couple intentionally tampered with their home's gas line, resulting in the deadly blast. The couple's motive was clear, make it seem like an accident, collect insurance money, and flee the country.

The episode covers the investigation, and eventually the arrest of Shirley and Leonard. Enhanced surveillance footage shows the pair purchasing equipment to work on their gas lines, which would later be used to weaken the line in their home. Additionally, it's revealed that a third person, Bob Leonard Jr. (Mark's half-brother), played a role in the crime. Prosecutors lead viewers through the trial, and the sentencing of Shirley and Mark Leonard, who are found guilty of 53 charges, including murder and arson.

The episode provides access to interviews with law enforcement officials, fire investigators, and legal experts who followed the trial closely. It gives insight into the investigation's strategies and the challenges they faced when building the case. Interspersed with dramatic recreations and actual footage from the scene, the episode provides a complete picture of the unfolding tragedy that shocked a community in Indiana.

Overall, Killer Couples season 7 episode 9 is a must-watch for true crime aficionados. The episode provides fascinating insight into the criminal mind and how people's darkest motives can lead them to commit the most heinous crimes imaginable. The episode leaves viewers asking the question: how far would they go to escape debt?