THE TYLENOL MURDERS- A FATHER'S CONFESSION TO HIS SON by Joseph Cibelli

 

Joseph Cibelli 

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I approached Joseph Cibelli’s provocative new true crime book, The Tylenol Murders: A Father’s Confession to His Son, with a healthy degree of skepticism. However, by the end of my reading, I found myself deeply impressed by the extensive evidence compiled and Cibelli’s heartfelt dedication to uncovering his own past. This exploration reveals a turbulent childhood entwined with fear, pain, and anger, as domestic violence and child abuse plagued Joseph, his siblings, and their mother— all victims of their father, Daniel Drozd's psychopathic nature. On his deathbed, Daniel Drozd uttered a chilling confession: “Cyanide pill… I did it.” This shocking admission hit Cibelli like a klaxon, awakening memories he had buried deep within himself—the realization that he had known this truth all along. As the haze of denial lifted, he began to piece together puzzling clues from his past: his father's cryptic remarks, his strange excursions into the woods, and the eerie routine of leaving his young sons alone while he disappeared for long stretches.

Cibelli’s journey to uncover these answers is rife with shocking revelations. With relentless precision, Cibelli meticulously constructs a timeline of events, corroborating his findings with those of others who lived through that deadly era. With each step, he lays bare a haunting pattern that ultimately leads to his conclusion about the tragic murders that claimed seven innocent lives in the fall of 1982. True crime enthusiasts crave resolutions to long-forgotten mysteries, and this book delivers. It is a gripping personal narrative that not only exposes the darkness of a tormented childhood but also sheds light on the far-reaching impacts of a father's malevolence, echoing from the Chicago area to the nation's consciousness.

Look for my interview with author Joseph Cibelli on the Murder Shelf Book Club Podcast, and hear his conviction as he delves deeper into the darkness, shining the light of truth on what has been an icy-cold case for 44 years.

2026: MERCH & MORE!

I have this shirt, I found it hilarious, and it's a must-have!

https://www.jusaskjan.com

Jan also does my merch, so if you are headed to the Hampton's Whodunit or Crimecon 2026, be sure to check it out! 

 

Ep 153 Special Episode- Who I Really Am by John Hinckley Jr & Jason Norman

 

Buy Who I Really Am by John Hinckley Jr with Jason Norman on Amazon.

Buy Who I Really Am on Barnes and Noble.

Outside the Hilton Hotel, John Hinckley Jr will shoot, hitting 4 people: President Ronald Reagan, James Brady, Tim McCarthy, and Thomas Delhanty. (Wikipedia)

Discovery UK, Youtube.com, 2011.

After the shooting by John Hinckley Jr. (Wikipedia)

President Reagan and Nancy Reagan leave the hospital and head back to the White House. (Wikipedia)

Listen to John Hinckley Jr.s Music on YouTube.

See John Hinckley Jr.'s Artwork.

President Reagan speaks about being shot.

 
SOURCES

1987- President Ronald Reagan Delivers "Missed Me", Youtube.com, 2021.

Carol Cratty, Psychiatrist, Testifies on Hinckley's personality disorders, CNN, Jan. 25, 2012.

Der Hinckley-Fall und einige Folgen für die Psychiatrie, (The Case of JW Hinckley and Some of its Sequels in Psychiatry), Forrtschr Neurol Psychiatre, 1990.

DeVeau vs United States, Justia US Law, 1984.

Douglas O. Linder, Famous Trials- Hinckley's Life After Commitment, 1995. 

Douglas O. Linder, Famous Trials- John Hinckley Jr. Trial (1982).

H. Stephen Moffic, Remember John Hinckley Jr: A Triumph for Psychiatry, But A Failure for Gun Safety, Psychiatric Times.com, June 16, 2022.

James Brady death ruled a homicide, CBSNews.com, 2015.

Jodie Foster, Why Me?, Esquire.com, 1982.

John Hinckley Jr, The Majesty of Love, YouTube.com, 2021.

John Hinckley Jr with Jason Norman, Who I Really Am, Wild Blue Press, Dec. 9, 2025.

John Hinckley Jr. Apologizes for 1981 Assassination, CBSNews.com, 2022.

John Hinckley Jr. Original Music, YouTube.com, Jan 2024.

John Hinckley, Jr Released, CBSNews.com, 2015.

Peter Hermann and Michael E. Ruane, Medical Examiner rules James Brady's death a homicide, Washington Post, August 18, 2014.

Reagan Assassination Attempt, Discovery UK, 2011.

Ronald Reagan on being shot by John Hinckley Jr., Witnify, YouTube.com, 2023.

Sarah Ann Hughes, The Man who shot James Brady Won't Face New Charges in Reagan's Aide's death, DCist.com, Jan. 2, 2015.

The Terrifying Stalker Obsession, CelebsUpClose.com, April 2025. 

Ep 152, 153 & 155! Incendiary: The Psychiatrist, the Mad Bomber and the Invention of Criminal Profiling by Michael Cannell

 

BUY INCENDIARY: The Psychiatrist, the Mad Bomber, and the Invention of Criminal Profiling by Michael Cannell on Amazon!

BUY other fabulous Michael Cannell books!

Unsolved Wall Street Bombing of 1920 (FBI)

Unsolved Wall Street Bombing 1920 (FBI)

Penn Station 1950s- Target.(Wikipedia)

Oyster Bar, Grand Central Station, 1950s- Target.(Wikipedia)

NYC Public Library-1950s- Target. (Wikipedia)

Buy Dr. Brussels' book on AMAZON! 

Dr James Brussel, M.D.

Dr Brussel's profile, Mad Bomber's handwriting, & 'Penis-shaped bombs'

The Mad Bomber- Captured!
George Metesky

George Metesky, upper right (left) Anna Metesky, Con-Ed's Alice Kelly,

George's garage. 

George Metesky in court, (lower right) the Metesky family home in Waterbury, CN.

Metesky sent to Bellevue for psych evaluation

Crime Scene- Murder of Mary Nerich, 1957

Another Dr. Brussel profile cracks the case, the murder of Mary Nerich, 1957.

Killer of Mary Nerich murders again, 1981.

Another Dr. Brussel profile case- The Boston Strangler

1962-1964

Survivor of the Boston Strangler, 1964

Albert DeSalvo was arrested for sexual assault in Boston in 1964.

SOURCES

40-Year old man convicted of killing a woman, UPI.com (Archives), 1981.

A Year to Remember- 1945- Dancing the Jitterbug, YouTube.com, Jan 2026.

California Jubilee in "Let's Twist Again"- Chubby Checker, YouTube.com, 2014.

Eric Rudolph, History, FBI.gov, 2026. 

Gerold Frank, The Boston Strangler, Open Road Media, 1967.

James A. Brussel, Casebook of a Crime Psychiatrist, Bernard Geis Associates, 1968.

James A. George, Offender Profiling and Expert Testimony: Scientifically Valid or Glorified Results, Vanderbilt Law Review, 2008.

Jenna, New York Cheese Cake with Strawberry Sauce, Butternut Bakery.com, 2026.

Kirk Yeager Ph.D, Understanding Bombers' Motivation: A Historical Study, Featured Articles, FBI.gov, March 9, 2022.

Dr Yeager's diagram from his research - See who is an example- George Metesky!

Mark Safarik, Katherine Ramsland, Spree Killers: Practical Classifications for Law Enforcement and Criminology, CRC Press, Oct. 18, 2018.

Michael Cannell, Incendiary: The Psychiatrist, the Mad Bomber, and the Invention of Criminal Profiling, Minotaur Books, April 25, 2017.

Michael Cannell, Unmasking the Mad Bomber, Smithstonian.com, April 2017.

Michael Greenburg, The Mad Bomber of New York: The Extraordinary True Story of the Manhunt That Paralyzed a City, Union Square Press, NYC, April 5, 2011.

Richard Gonzales et al, Austin Bomber suspect, Mark Anthony Conditt, left a 'confession' before standoff, Capradio, March 20, 2018.

The Mad Bomber- Getty Images, Jan. 2026.

The Mad Bomber Strikes In NY, History.com, May 28, 2025.

The Unabomber, History, FBI.gov, 2026.

Wall Street Bombing of 1920, HISTORY-Famous cases and Criminals, FBI.org, Jan 2026.

Walter C. Langer, A Psychological Analysis of Adolph Hitler: His life and legend, CIA.gov, 2025.

Feb 2026 Deadly Route by Karen DeVanie and Anne Varner - A Review by Jill of the Murder Shelf Book Club Podcast

BUY DEADLY ROUTE BY Varner & DeVanie on Amazon!

    The incredible dynamic duo is back with their second book in the 'Say My Name Series', titled Deadly Route. Do not overlook that first sentence; the key phrase is “say my name.” Karen DeVanie and Anne Varner are dedicated to honoring the victims of crimes that occurred in their hometown of Franklin, Virginia, which has profoundly shaped the sisters' personalities and love of true crime. 

    In this novel, the authors present the story from the perspectives of characters Georgia, Olive, and Toby. Through their gripping internal monologues, readers are drawn into themes of optimism, intervention, and the menacing figure known as ‘The Savage.’ With exquisite foreshadowing, we realize that The Savage will eventually intersect with someone or something, creating a growing tension that leaves readers eagerly anticipating what will happen next as the characters go about their daily lives, unaware of the devastation barreling toward them. 

    Georgia stood on the brink of her hopes and dreams, the eternal optimist who joyfully embraced the milestones of young adulthood: love, marriage, and career. The loyal friend, Olive, who takes on a protective role, remaining devoted, despite not always understanding the choices made. Toby, often misunderstood and struggling with even the smallest social interactions, navigated the tumultuous waters of life, experiencing fluctuating periods of isolation and anger. 

 I became so engrossed in the story that I finished Deadly Route in under 4 hours; I couldn't put it down! I felt as if I was part of the unfolding scenes, seeing through the characters’ eyes and weighing their reactions and responses. At the end of this poignant book, we discover the true story that inspired the novel: the callous murder of Theresa Yvonne “Terry” Brickey Brantley, a beloved local who tragically lost her life at the age of 24. 

 The authors' passion for justice is evidenced by the attention to detail that characterizes the Say My Name Series. The authors and hosts of the Sugar-Coated Murder podcast also share an uplifting chocolate cake recipe that will impress. As warmer weather approaches, I highly recommend bringing "Deadly Route" to the beach, pool, or patio chair. It is a guaranteed winner that you will want to discuss with friends and family. Add this one to your murder shelf.

PPst! I featured their 1st 'Say My Name' book, Click, Click, Click- Ep 77-79! 

BOOK REVIEW: INCENDIARY: The Psychiatrist, the Mad Bomber, & the Investion of Criminal Profiling by Michael Cannell 1/26

  

BUY MICHAEL CANNELL'S BOOK- Incendiary ON AMAZON!

&

MICHAEL CANNEL'S BOOK/INFORMATION SITE

Be sure to listen to the Murder Shelf Book Club Podcast's trilogy on this amazing book, Ep 153, 154, & 155!

If you have a passion for history and true crime, revel in serial killer documentaries, and hold a fascination for the FBI's Behavior Analysis Unit, then this book is an absolute must-read! My long-standing curiosity about the Mad Bomber case led me to Michael Cannell's captivating narrative, and it answered all my questions in the most satisfying way. The research in this work flows effortlessly, painting each paragraph with vivid details that engage and enthrall the reader.

Every individual featured in the book is portrayed with depth, drawing us into their experiences as the story unfolds. With a non-linear structure, the narrative centers on the bombings while elegantly weaving in critical themes, including mental health and schizophrenia in the 1950s, the complex mindset of a psychiatrist striving to comprehend the criminal mind, the daunting responsibilities of bomb squad detectives, and the intricate relationship between law enforcement and the press. These threads come together to form a rich tapestry of storytelling that enchants and captivates. As the host of the Murder Shelf Book Club podcast, which highlights outstanding true crime literature, I wholeheartedly recommend "Incendiary: The Psychiatrist, the Mad Bomber, and the Invention of Criminal Profiling." This book isn't just a read; it's an experience that will linger in your mind long after you turn the last page.

Book Review- RIDERS ON THE STORM BY SHERRI KUKLA

Sherri Kukla's captivating debut in the world of true crime should undeniably pave the way for more. She meticulously delves into a haunting case that has lingered in the shadows for 75 years, bringing to life the chilling tale of Billy Cook, the “cockeyed killer,” whose reign of terror gripped the nation in 1951. The story opens with a poignant glimpse into the life of a young boy faced with heartbreaking misfortune, setting the stage for a harrowing narrative.

As well-meaning individuals go about their daily routines, they are suddenly thrust into a whirlwind of panic and horror. A malevolent crime spree carves a path of devastation and fear, leaving communities paralyzed and on edge, their once-peaceful lives shattered. Kukla skillfully weaves the narrative from multiple perspectives—portraying the harrowing experiences of victims, resilient survivors, dedicated police officers, and heartbroken families caught in the nightmare. This vivid storytelling transports readers to an era devoid of modern conveniences: no televisions or cell phones issuing alerts issuing with alerts, no instant communication, and no CCTV cameras capturing every moment at intersections.

 Instead, law enforcement faced the daunting challenge of apprehending a merciless spree killer with limited resources before the US highway system existed! The question looms: what will recovery and justice truly entail in the aftermath of such a calamity? In a delightful exchange, Sherri Kukla was a guest on the Murder Shelf Book Club, a true crime book club podcast, for an enlightening conversation about her latest. Tune in to episode 149, and make sure to grab a copy of this remarkable true crime masterpiece! As a fascinating tidbit, this true story inspired The Doors’ iconic song "Riders on the Storm."