Renowned forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden, known for his investigations into the deaths of prominent figures like John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr., and O.J. Simpson, recently discussed President Trump's directive to release the JFK assassination files. Dr. Baden's insights offer a glimpse into the potential revelations these documents may hold.
In an interview, Dr. Baden highlighted the persistent conspiracy theories surrounding the assassination, fueled by the incomplete release of the original investigation report. He expressed hope that the 14,000 documents ordered for release by President Trump could address some of the misinformation and unanswered questions.
President Trump signed the executive order on Thursday, emphasizing the public's long-awaited access to these files. The move aims to bring transparency to the assassinations of JFK, his brother Robert F. Kennedy, and civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.
President Donald Trump in the Oval Office with the executive order. (Roberto Schmidt/AFP via Getty Images)
Fox Nation's "The Baden Files" explores cases Dr. Baden has worked on. (Fox Nation)
The JFK Assassination: A Nation's Trauma
The assassination of President Kennedy on November 22, 1963, continues to resonate in American history. The event's shockwaves, from the initial shooting to the subsequent killing of Lee Harvey Oswald by Jack Ruby, left a lasting impact.
President Kennedy in Dallas moments before the assassination. (AP Photo/Jim Altgens, Files)
The Lone Shooter vs. Conspiracy Theories
Dr. Baden chaired the forensic pathology panel for the 1977 Congressional Select Committee on Assassinations. Their investigation concluded that Oswald fired three shots, with the third fatally wounding the president. However, the initial autopsy, conducted by a less experienced doctor, contributed to lingering doubts and conspiracy theories.
A view from the motorcade in Dallas. (Cecil Stoughton, White House/John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston)
Governmental Concerns and Potential Embarrassment
Dr. Baden suggested that the delayed release of the documents might stem from concerns about protecting confidential informants and potentially embarrassing the intelligence community. He also acknowledged the possibility of revealing information that could compromise national security, even after six decades.
The Kennedy family preparing for the procession to the Capitol. (Abbie Rowe, National Park Service/John Fitzgerald Kennedy Library, Boston)
Mafia Involvement and Oswald's Motives
Theories about mafia involvement in the assassination have persisted, with speculation about Kennedy's stance on organized crime. Dr. Baden noted the possibility that the mafia might have sought retribution for Kennedy's crackdown on their activities.
President John F. Kennedy. (Associated Press)
Seeking Answers in the Declassified Documents
While Dr. Baden expressed confidence in the Select Committee's findings, he acknowledged the potential for the declassified documents to provide further insights into Oswald's motivations and any potential involvement of other parties, including government agencies, the mafia, or foreign countries. He believes these documents could shed light on the events leading up to the assassination and any subsequent cover-ups.
The release of these files holds the promise of answering long-standing questions and potentially reshaping our understanding of this pivotal moment in American history.
