Out of respect for the judicial process, Small Town Forgotten has not released new episodes since the arrest of the suspect in August 2024.

Our goal has always been to share Jimmie Wade Martin Jr.’s story — to honor his twin daughters, his family, and the community of Bonne Terre, Missouri — while respecting the rights of all involved.

All opinions expressed in podcast episodes are those of the podcast, the Martin family, and podcast guests. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

We will provide accurate, responsible coverage of the November 2026 trial drawn only from public court records and official statements. We respect the jury, the judicial process, and the community this case calls home.

— Shawn Lee Martin
Small Town Forgotten / Blue Burn Productions LLC

Wesley P. Marler was arrested in August 2024 and charged with Assault in the First Degree for the 1989 death of Jimmie Wade Martin Jr. in Bonne Terre, Missouri. He is currently released on bond and awaiting trial. The case is being prosecuted by the Missouri Attorney General’s Special Prosecution Cold Case office, led by Assistant Attorney General Kevin Zoellner.

Trial is scheduled to begin November 16, 2026 in St. Francois County Circuit Court. Small Town Forgotten will provide updates as the trial unfolds.

DEFENDANT Wesley P. Marler
CHARGE Assault in the First Degree
ARRESTED August 2024
BOND STATUS Released on bond
CURRENT LOCATION Bonne Terre, Missouri
TRIAL DATE November 16–20, 2026
COURT St. Francois County Circuit Court
PROSECUTOR Missouri AG Special Cold Case Unit / Asst. AG Kevin Zoellner
PUBLIC RECORD Case No. 24SF-CR01017

OCT 13, 1989 — Jimmie Wade Martin Jr. beaten on Mound Street, Bonne Terre, Missouri

OCT 14, 1989 — Jimmie dies of blunt force trauma at the hospital

OCT 1989 — David Brian White arrested, held three years awaiting trial

1992 — Three days before jury is seated, prosecution drops all charges. David Brian White is released.

1989–2021 — Case goes cold. No arrests. No answers.

2008 — Twins go public. Daily Journal front page. Sheriff promises answers. Nothing happens.

2015 — Justice for Jimmie Facebook page launched

NOV 2020 — Small Town Forgotten podcast launches

2021–2024 — 14 episodes. 325,000+ listeners. 90 countries. Word of mouth only.

AUG 2024 — Wesley P. Marler arrested and charged

OCT 2026 — Pre-trial hearing

NOV 2026 — Trial begins

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