What began as a seemingly ordinary November 2023 vacation for a senior couple swiftly turned into a scene ripped from a crime drama at Miami Airport’s international terminal. Harvey Adelson, a well-known Florida dentist, and his wife Donna were about to board their flight when federal agents and police officers suddenly descended upon the jetway. Their target was Donna Adelson, a 73-year-old grandmother, who was promptly placed in handcuffs and taken to Miami-Dade County Jail. This arrest has sent shockwaves, prompting many to ask: Who is Donna Adelson, and how did she become entangled in a murder case?
To understand the gravity of this moment, we must rewind to the summer of 2014 when Dan Markel, a Florida State University law professor, was tragically murdered in his garage. Markel shared two sons with his ex-wife, Wendi Adelson – daughter to Harvey and Donna. The investigation into Dan’s death has since unearthed a complex web of family conflicts, all seemingly stemming from Dan and Wendi’s acrimonious divorce and the ensuing custody battle for their young children. The arrest of Donna Adelson is the latest development in this gripping saga, promising to reveal even more twisted family secrets.
Donna Adelson's arrest at Miami International Airport is part of the Dateline: Family Matters episode.
For the full, in-depth story and the newest revelations in this ongoing case, be sure to watch the full episode of Dateline: Family Matters, now streaming on Peacock. You can also catch the episode on the NBC app or listen to the audio version on your favorite podcast platform. For an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the making of this compelling episode, don’t miss the Talking Dateline episode featuring Josh Mankiewicz and Dennis Murphy. Furthermore, hear Dan’s friends share cherished memories of a beloved friend and father after watching the episode.
