Cheryl and Nikki Druce are diving into the world of creepypastas to meet one of the most deadly internet myths of all time… Slenderman. It’s a balmy Friday night in May in the suburb of Waukesha Wisconsin in 2014. 12 year old Payton is getting ready to celebrate her best friend Morgan's birthday at a sleepover, along with their friend Anissa. Just 12 hours later, Payton is found abandoned in the woods and barely alive after being stabbed 19 times by her friends. They say they did it to appease Slenderman. Police had two questions on their hands… who was Slenderman, and why did two 12 year old girls brutally attack their friend in their quest to meet him? Cheryl and Nikki are about to find out. Expect a 101 on internet scary stories, tales of dodgy fanfics and some of the most haunting words to have ever been spoken by a 12 year old…
This episode contains graphic details of violence, including violence against and perpetrated by children, and is not intended for all audiences. Listener discretion is strongly advised.
00:00 - Intro
02:11 - Nikki sets the scene
04:39 - Creepypasta 101
08:18 - Slenderman’s origin story
13:15 - How did an internet story turn into attempted murder?
13:45 - Payton makes friends with Morgan
16:15 - Annisa arrives in town
18:14 - The Slenderman lore takes hold of Morgan and Anissa
22:24 - Morgan and Anissa’s sinister plan
23:41 - Morgan’s Birthday sleepover
24:34 - The first attempt
25:21 - The second attempt
26:12 - The stabbing of Payton
29:07 - Morgan and Anissa set off to find Slenderman’s mansion
29:31 - Payton saves herself
31:30 - Morgan and Anissa are found with the attempted murder weapon
32:44 - Morgan and Anissa are brought in for questioning
36:51 - The indictment and sentencing of Morgan and Anissa
39:25 - The fall out
44:02 - Outro
For all things Killers, Cults and Queens, head over to @killerscultsqueens on Instagram. And follow Cheryl @cheryldragqueen and Nikki Druce @nikkimacabrelondon.
If you have been affected by any of the themes in this episode, please consider contacting the following resources:
The Samaritans helpline: 116 123
Confidential Emotional Support Line: 01708 765200
Refuge domestic abuse helpline: 0808 2000 247 (live chat is also available at https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/Contact-us *times apply)
Safeline domestic abuse helpline: 01926 402 498
Safeline national male survivor helpline: 0808 800 5005
Sexual Assault Support Line: 01708 765200
Sane mental health line: 0300 304 7000
The knowledge out there on this topic is vast, so if your interest is peaked by this episode. Please take a look at our sources:
Slenderman Stabbing victim speaks
the history of "Slender Man", i guess
Victor Surge Talks About Creating The Original 'Slender Man'
'Slender Man' Creator Speaks on Stabbing: 'I Am Deeply Saddened'
Convicted ‘Slender Man’ Teen Released Early
Second Convicted 'Slender Man' Attacker Also Seeks Conditional Release From Mental Health Facility
Slender Man stabbing - Wikipedia
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