Sharon Nelson's Murders: A Black Widow's Tale

What drives a person to orchestrate the murders of their own spouses? How can someone maintain a facade of normalcy while harboring such dark secrets?

In American Black Widow, true crime author Gregg Olsen delves into the chilling story of Sharon Nelson and her involvement in the Sharon Nelson murders. This gripping account unravels the complex web of deceit, manipulation, and violence that led to the deaths of two unsuspecting husbands.

Prepare yourself for a journey into the mind of a killer as we explore the troubled past, failed relationships, and shocking confessions that ultimately brought Sharon Nelson to justice.

The Dark Path of Sharon Nelson

A Troubled Childhood

Sharon Nelson's journey into darkness, which would eventually lead to the infamous Sharon Nelson murders, began with a troubled childhood. Raised in a strict Seventh-Day Adventist household, she faced numerous obstacles that would shape her future actions. Her parents, Josephine and Morris Douglas, enforced rigid discipline, often resorting to physical punishment. The family maintained a facade of perfection, hiding their true emotions both in public and at home.

This oppressive environment stifled Sharon's personal desires and hindered open communication. Even when she pleaded with her parents to cancel her impending marriage to Mike Fuller, her father prioritized the family's social reputation over her well-being.

Perhaps most disturbing were the incidents of sexual abuse Sharon endured in her early years. These traumatic experiences occurred within what should have been a safe religious community. Shockingly, those responsible for Sharon's care responded with a disturbing lack of compassion and protection.

A Series of Failed Relationships

As Sharon entered adulthood, her life became marked by a succession of unsatisfying relationships and deceptive actions. Her first marriage to Minister Mike Fuller was fraught with discontent and infidelity. Sharon expressed unhappiness due to Mike's lack of empathy and affection, qualities she ultimately found in someone else.

Following her split from Mike in 1976, Sharon set her sights on wealthy ophthalmologist Perry Nelson. She conducted a thorough examination of church records to identify Perry as a potential target, considering his financial situation and responsibilities. Sharon skillfully manipulated Perry into dissolving his union with Julie to pursue a connection with her.

However, Sharon's marriage to Perry was far from perfect. Financial strains were exacerbated by her mismanagement of Perry's business finances and her evident unfaithfulness. Sharon juggled multiple romantic and sexual partners simultaneously, leveraging her allure for personal gain.

The Mysterious Deaths

It's in the deaths of her husbands that Sharon Nelson's story takes its darkest turn. The circumstances surrounding Perry Nelson's disappearance and death were shrouded in mystery. Initially ruled an accident, Perry's death allowed Sharon to receive a significant insurance payout. However, numerous suspicious conditions called this verdict into question.

Sharon's detached demeanor and absence from search activities aroused suspicions. Critical belongings were missing from Perry's recovered car, and Sharon's quick decision to dispose of his firearms added further doubt. Officials conducted a swift inquiry and promptly cremated Perry's remains, leading to skepticism about Sharon's claims.

The death of Sharon's next husband, firefighter Glen Harrelson, was even more sinister. In collusion with her lover Gary, Sharon orchestrated events leading to Glen's demise. They devised a scheme to portray Glen's death as a botched burglary, incorporating a metal pipe provided by Sharon. Despite Glen's valiant resistance, Gary emerged victorious, shooting Glen twice.

The Unraveling of Sharon's Web

As investigations into the murders intensified, Sharon's dishonest and unlawful actions gradually came to light. Insurance companies recognized Sharon's role in Perry's passing, and rumors began to spread questioning her honesty. People close to Sharon suggested a romantic connection with Gary, who was also believed to have played a role in Perry's misfortune.

The growing body of evidence, along with skepticism among Glen's peers about his death in a house fire, increasingly indicated Sharon's complicity. Despite her efforts to maintain the facade, Sharon's conduct during interviews clearly indicated she was protecting someone else.

The Shocking Confession

In a surprising turn of events, Sharon's web of lies finally unraveled in an unexpected setting - a Pizza Hut. During an unguarded moment, she revealed the extent of her crimes, admitting to her involvement in the killings. She confessed that Gary Starr Adams had convinced her that Perry was "out of the picture."

Following this emotional outburst, Sharon was apprehended by the Thornton Police Department. She later confessed to orchestrating the demise of her two spouses at a Best Western Motel, resulting in both her and Gary Adams being imprisoned. Sharon accepted responsibility for two charges of first-degree murder, possibly to avoid the death penalty and shield her children from further trauma.

The Devastating Aftermath

Sharon's actions had profound and lasting effects on her family and the broader community. Her children and step-children felt a deep sense of betrayal and were profoundly disturbed by the unexpected and deeply moving passing of their fathers. The emotional toll was evident in courtroom confrontations, where family members accused Sharon of robbing them of beloved fathers, grandfathers, and sons.

The community at large regarded Sharon with feelings of distrust, disgust, and resentment. Her insensitive and manipulative character had far-reaching impacts, from the Philippi family's disparaging remarks about her character to the community's cautions against assisting her. Even members of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, who initially thought Sharon was the right match for Perry, were left grappling with shock, disenchantment, and betrayal.

Sharon Nelson's story serves as a chilling reminder of the devastating consequences of manipulation, deceit, and ruthless ambition. Her actions not only ended two lives but also shattered families and left an entire community reeling in disbelief and mistrust.