The Death of Ned Doheny
Conspiracy Theories
Deep Dive
What was the Teapot Dome scandal, and how was Ned Doheny involved?
The Teapot Dome scandal was a bribery incident during the 1920s involving U.S. government oil reserves. Ned Doheny, along with his father Edward, was implicated in bribing Albert Bacon Fall, the Secretary of the Interior, to secure lucrative oil leases. Ned delivered $100,000 in cash to Fall, which was later investigated as a bribe. This scandal led to federal indictments against both Ned and his father.
Why was Hugh Plunkett under significant stress before his death?
Hugh Plunkett was under immense stress due to his involvement in the Teapot Dome scandal and the impending trials. He was Ned Doheny's personal secretary and had been present during the $100,000 cash delivery to Albert Bacon Fall. Hugh feared being called to testify, which could lead to perjury charges or implicating Ned. Additionally, he was overwhelmed by managing the construction of Greystone Mansion, leading to a mental breakdown.
What were the key inconsistencies in the official murder-suicide narrative of Ned Doheny and Hugh Plunkett?
The official narrative claimed Hugh shot Ned and then himself. However, forensic evidence contradicted this. Ned had powder burns near his ear, indicating the gun was fired at close range, while Hugh had no such burns. The gun found under Hugh's body was unusually warm, and fingerprints were wiped clean. Witness accounts were also inconsistent, with Dr. Fishbaugh changing his story about the door's closure and the timing of events.
What role did Edward Doheny play in the aftermath of Ned and Hugh's deaths?
Edward Doheny, Ned's father, was deeply involved in the aftermath. He likely influenced the investigation to protect the family's reputation. The district attorney's office abruptly closed the case, attributing the deaths to Hugh's mental instability. Edward also ensured that the media narrative aligned with the family's version of events, possibly using his connections to suppress alternative theories.
Why is the placement of Ned and Hugh's graves significant?
Ned and Hugh were buried close to each other at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, which is unusual for a murderer and victim. Ned's sarcophagus was unmarked, while Hugh's gravestone was smaller. This placement has led to speculation that the official narrative was false. Additionally, Edward Doheny, a Catholic, chose not to be buried near Ned, possibly because suicide was considered a mortal sin by the Church at the time, disqualifying Ned from a proper Catholic burial.
What alternative theories exist about the deaths of Ned Doheny and Hugh Plunkett?
Alternative theories include Hugh blackmailing Ned, a third party being involved in the shooting, or a romantic relationship between Ned and Hugh. Some speculate that Ned's wife, Lucy, may have been involved. Another theory suggests Ned killed Hugh and then himself, based on forensic evidence of powder burns on Ned's temple. However, the abrupt closure of the investigation has left these theories unresolved.