63: Zachary Sabin

The episode covers the heartbreaking story of Zachary Sabin, an 11-year-old boy who succumbed to water intoxication after being forced to drink large quantities of water over a night by his father, Ryan Sabin, and stepmother, Tara Sabin. The El Paso County coroner determined that Zachary died from this rare condition, a fact that was compounded by evidence suggesting physical abuse. It details Zachary's life, describing him as a sweet, kind boy who was passionate about animals and reading. The narrative follows the events leading up to his tragic death, including a toxic parenting dynamic revolving around a supposed bedwetting issue. Zachary was made to drink excessively, leading to vomiting and ultimately, seizures, which were tragically ignored by his parents. After months of investigation, both Ryan and Tara were charged with murder and child abuse, although Tara later struck a plea deal to reduce her charges. Listeners are left to grapple with the emotional aftermath of such a preventable tragedy and the callousness exhibited by those who were supposed to protect him.