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You're listening to Episode 96 of Jimmy Aiken's Mysterious World,

where we look at mysteries from the twin perspectives of faith and reason.

In this episode, we're talking about David Kuresh, the branched divinians,

and the Waco siege that resulted in a Texas apocalypse.

My name is Don Betanelli and joining me today is Jimmy Aiken. Hi Jimmy. Howdy, Don.

On April 19, 1993, 26 years ago this month,

federal law enforcement authorities stormed a religious commune outside Waco, Texas.

The commune was run by a group known as the Branch Dividians,

and it was led by David Kuresh, who some called a sinful Messiah.

The attack resulted in the deaths of more than 70 people, including many children.

In the aftermath of this horrible event, a series of government investigations followed.

But the results of those investigations have been challenged with allegations of severe

misconduct by high government officials, cover-up, and conspiracy.

What's the truth about the Waco siege? Who were the branched divinians?

What did David Kuresh believe? Could the deaths have been avoided?

That's what we'll be talking about on this episode of Jimmy Aiken's Mysterious World.

Jimmy, we want to begin this episode by issuing a caution. What do we need to say?

This episode is going to be very compelling, but it may not be for all listeners.

As always, we're going to keep things general. We won't be going into gory details,

...