In this episode of "The Short Stuff," the hosts delve into the fascinating true story of Albert Johnson, famously known as the "Mad Trapper of Rat River." In the 1930s, he became a national sensation after evading the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for seven weeks in the Canadian Arctic. The tale begins with a confrontation over trapping disputes and evolves into a dramatic manhunt involving aircraft and First Nations trackers. This case was notable not only for being the first to use airplanes in a manhunt but also as one of the earliest major news events shared over the radio. Although Johnson ultimately met his demise and modern DNA testing has been attempted, his true identity remains shrouded in mystery. This captivating narrative sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of Canadian history, exploring themes of identity and survival in harsh conditions.
