Rey Rivera | Unsolved Mysteries | Mental Health & Personality 

As a writer, I shudder to think what people will make of my notes and search history if I die in mysterious circumstances.

Dr Grande, it’s literally mind blowing how much content you put out

"It's frightening and tragic, but it's no one's fault." Very empathetic Dr. Grande. I totally agree.

Retired psych RN. I was thinking he was having a break and then when the contents of the note was shared I was certain. It is so sad that there is not adequate education regarding mental illness and such stigma still remains. Many families would rather believe just about anything but mental illness. I worked in psych ER near several large universities and so many first breaks were seen. I heard so many times by family somebody slipped something in his drink. However the patient had a tox screen and medical workup. They just were in such denial. Mental illness can easily be a fatal disease but that is not known or believed by many.

As always, Dr. Todd Grande’s videos _AREN’T_ just *very good...* ...they’re *very* *_VERY_* *good!*

Dr. Grande exhibits signs of someone with tremendous self-discipline as he consistently produces high-quality content.

Dr Grande, this analysis makes so much sense. It's a good reminder that entertainment 'documentaries' are hardly reliable sources of information. Your compassion for anyone experiencing something like this, either firsthand or as a family member or even as a close friend, is remarkable.

Here’s one minor correction- Rey and Porter Stansberry didn’t attend high school in California. They (and I) graduated from Winter Park High School in central Florida. Rey was in the grade above me and was known as a well liked, athletic, and friendly guy. Thanks for raising awareness about how successful, charismatic people can also be suffering from mental illness. There’s a misconception that all sufferers present as “raging crazy lunatics” instead of handsome, accomplished, and loving people.

What bothers me the most about this case, and why I can’t dismiss Ray’s actions as totally delusional and therefore “just” a suicide, is that the phone call that prompted Ray to run out of the house has been documented as real by the house guest AND the police. I realize that this wouldn’t rule out a psychotic break in reaction to a phone call but the house guest stated that Ray was acting normally all day and then RAN out of the house following the call. Someone made that call (it has been said for years that it came from Porter’s and Ray’s company). I love your videos but your explanation here doesn’t address the basic issues with the physics of the jump - the speed at which he needed to be running to even get close to the arc from the roof - and the many concerns about the ways in which his body was damaged (the leg bone breaks for example)

I’m so glad you covered this case. I watched the Unsolved Mysteries episode and, at first, could believe that there was some type of criminal component to Rey’s death. When they got to the note taped to the side of his computer, I felt they completely glossed over the oddity of its location and contents to support their alternate narrative. They didn’t even share as many details of the note as you did here and even still it clearly seemed to be written by someone experiencing symptoms of mental illness. What happened to Rey was tragic and rewriting his story only denies his experience. I feel that your analysis is more respectful of Rey’s memory in that you’ve actually sought to understand him and what he was up against. And yet, you remain respectful and understanding of any loved ones who need to believe in something else. Not only to I find your content to be interesting, I learn something every time. Thank you, Dr. Grande. You are very, very good.

Flip Flops are not known to precipitate running. 😆😅 Sounds like a line for an ad. 💚

Your closing remarks made me realize how quickly people jump onto the mental health factors when we're talking about serial killers, murderers or looking for possible suspects. But aren't as quick when it comes to people killing themselves. They look for foul play. If they don't find one, they want to blame it on something like a break up, divorce, losing a loved one et cetera. They just cannot accept the fact that their loved one was struggling but not because of the things you might think are what would "normally" make a person go down that route. You said that it is denial but it makes me think about the stigmatization of mental health too. Amazing video as always. Really informative. Thank you

No video record of him entering the Belvedere, but the camera facing the garage roof was disconnected, that crazy trajectory.... So many factors that point to something foul here. But I can see this from the other side as well. So confusing. 😣

This. Was. A. Phenomenal. Video! I really wish families of individuals who have mental disorders..... and especially survivors who have lost loved ones to suicide would somehow stumble upon this video! I for one can say from first hand experience that this would literally be life changing to them during their grieving and acceptance process!! Not to mention this perfectly explains the very important “basics” so to speak of mental illness, without making people feel embarrassed or “bad” if they or their loved ones do suffer from mental illness. Dr. Grande’s analysis: Excellent, as always!!!

Also, in "The Matrix," Neo is challenged to jump off a building to test reality.

Your last words almost made me tear up. I'm "only" suffering from anxiety and depression, but just thinking about how much pain others are going trough breaks my hard. It must be terrible to feel like he propably did on his last days.

I love unsolved mysteries it’s a great show. I saw this episode on Netflix. It’s really disturbing.

Happy Saturday Dr. Grande and everyone! Came in from our pool party and saw a video. They won't notice I'm gone for a little bit😂😂 It's cold anyway and I'm tired of being splashed! I'll just set you on my counter while I make snacks.

This episode of unsolved mysteries actually frustrated me with how hard they pushed the conspiracy narrative. I fully agree with your assessment. Great stuff.

Thank you for your clear, gentle comments about first break psychosis It is a very difficult time for the person with the illness and families who have no idea how to get help, or even what help is needed, So glad you took a moment to address this

I really loved your explanation towards the end of different kinds of thinking. You truly have a heart and that’s what I hope for when you are in the business your are in. I really enjoy your videos. Thanks ❤️

Thank you dr. Grande for another great analysis. Your conclusions at the end of each video are very thought provoking. ⚘

The last minute or so of this video is the most important point.

Your ability to explain complex information as well as the way you wrap things up with a dash of insight... these make every one of these videos engaging and thought-provoking. It's rare to find this content outside a classroom. Thanks!!

Damnnnnn The Game is due for a rewatch, havent seen that movie in years! Also would have never imagined Dr Grande talking about lizard people lol. Love your vids, Doc!

Can you look into the mental health status behind those who belong to secret societies? What can you tell us about secret societies?

I’m so happy you took my suggestion and did this video!!! I learned a lot and it’s definitely helpful hearing about psychosis and how that most likely affected this case. Love your channel so much!

I love this content but would also like to see some of your old stuff too. You have a very lucid way of talking about mental illness, personality, etc Maybe a few of those videos generally discussing mental illness, personality, etc once in a while would be nice. Not hating on the popular cases, serial killers, etc. I enjoy these vids and wait for them every day. Just saying, you have an incredible sense of clarity when discussing complex issues so I would appreciate some general therapy stuff every once in a while.

Can you do an episode on Anthony Bourdain? Specifically, why someone who seemingly "has it all" would choose to purposely end their own life? Your insights and analysis are always very interesting & imformative! Thanks

This really makes a lot of sense. Now - PLEASE do the husband from the second episode!!

I want to thank you so much for your channel. When you said in this video that having a delusion is not a choice, I had a breakthrough. I had someone in my life years ago that had paranoia and delusions. I would argue with him, trying to use logic and reason. I thought he could overcome his delusions, but he was not able to. His situation haunted me. But when you said that delusions are not a choice, it finally clicked. I feel peace about the situation now.

I don’t know what I love more.....your analyses or your deadpan humor and sarcasm. You have me addicted, Dr. Grande.

Couldn’t wait to hear your take on this case. When you read the note I was struck by his creativity, but at the same time , thought of schizophrenia. I feel your conclusions are correct. I feel his wife in accepting it was murder, may have prolonged her suffering. Thanks for such a great review.

The one thing DR Grande leaves out that could easily explain the problem with the trajectory from the roof, is the easy access to the ledge they refer to as 'narrow' in the TV show, but it's like 3' feet wide. You can see it clearly in the episode. Wide enough to easily walk along and access would have (apparently) been available to it from an open janitorial space in the building. From there, he would have just had to step off of it, so the trajectory issue is solved as a result.

Please do the French family episode from Unsolved Mysteries!

Love your content!! Joined Patreon and was SO excited to see special videos there! I watched them all in one day! Thank you for your immaculate work!

I always appreciate the OBJECTIVE analysis you present

Finishing one DrG video and another pops up. Dr.G’a version of “but wait...there’s more!” 💖💕

Thanks Dr. Todd! Thank you for taking this one on!! Your attention to detail is always on point. Psychologically, and into the forensics. It's " very strange". 💯🔥❤️

This was one of your very best analyses and one that I hope helps bring some peace to those who need it.

I agree with your first-break psychosis hypothesis. There is also an element of unfortunate timing. Had Allison not been on a business trip, she would have likely observed that Rey was psychotic and got him the help he needed. Such a tragedy. .

I found your analysis interesting, patient, and compassionate. This case was new to me, and I'll watch again. It reminded me of Frank Olson, who jumped or was pushed or thrown out of a hotel window in New York City in 1953. This case involves LSD, the CIA, MK-ULTRA, and Sidney Gottlieb, aka "The Poisoner in Chief," and it was a real conspiracy with very, very serious things to tell us about our government. I'd like to hear your analysis of the psychology of Gottlieb. Thank you, sir.

I found you on here a few weeks ago and your voice is very soothing lol I listen to you while I work. When you talk about the more dangerous side of Bipolar disorder, it makes me nervous because I'm diagnosed Bipolar with PTSD. I try to monitor my behaviors closely and changes in them cause I know many who have much deeper issues from our disorder. Listening to these sometimes makes me nervous about that. But either way, you are very entertaining. Thanks for the videos.

Dr. Grande, your videos are both very informative and entertaining. Thanks for sharing your perspectives with the RU-vid community :) I watch your videos as soon as you drop them. Please keep it up 👍🏽

Dr Grande, Thank you so much for saying no one is to blame in these unexpected deaths. Also, the person who is having the break from reality isn't mad at anyone, and they are not trying to hurt others. Unfortunately, they are so caught up in their illusion that the illusion can lead to their destruction.

A new 5 point Likert scale: not strange at all, somewhat strange, strange, very strange, and very, very strange. Very sad story, though. Very interesting case. Thanks, Dr.!

Wow. For me, this is the most mind blowing and complicated analysis that I've seen so far. You are really good at this thank you.

Impressed enough to make my first ever Patreon donation. Hope Dr Grande does not become so rich as to quit making these excellent informative videos!

According to reddit, Rey's note is a "tone map" - a common technique for outlining a movie concept using references to other films, phrases and other things that convey the general feel. I'm no expert in films at all but apparently his note was pretty clearly a tone map.

Stephanie Harlowe did an intense two-part series on this case. She went deep and it was far more interesting and in-depth than the one on Netflix.

it's surprising how fast you release good content. I love the analysis. It's impartial and quite in-depth. You know your stuff. Keep up the good work.

Always a pleasure listening to your no nonsense, quick fact videos! Love your information and take on all of it.

I agree. But I would like to know who made that phone call, what it was about, and why they have not spoken up.

Something seems strange about Alison....she simply “doesn’t recall” having a series of isolated short discussions with Porter about Rey’s alleged deep depression? It would seem to me that would be an emphatic denial, more along the lines of “I NEVER said that to Porter!!”

So happy you made this really really great video. I watched the Netflix series and appreciate you offering a new POV.

Woah Dr Grande you are blowing my mind. Another one of my favorite topics!! You are now officially a legend 👍🏻

I was riveted by your penetrating analysis of this case. I agree-it appears to be a suicide. Previously, I had worked in an outpatient psychiatric clinic that served dual diagnosis patients some of whom were motivated by psychosis, command hallucinations or depression to attempt suicide. Sadly, these were patients who were stable but were no longer able to cope when faced with a sudden, unforeseen stressor and lost their will to live. I wonder if Rey also felt this way and it led to his untimely death. It's a tragedy beyond measure. Thank you, Dr. Grande for this very, very, very important video!

What about the trajectory? How did he manage that jump?

This was one of the most interesting and informational videos. It helps understand what some people have to go through. Thank you so much for your content. It really makes a difference 👏🏻👏🏻

It was astonishing...that explanation has left me speechless. It explains so much and is so fascinating. Thank you so much for the video.

Upon seeing this video pop up in my timeline, my first reaction was “YES!!!!!!!!” 👍

When it comes to suicide or accidents families often find it hard to accept that it was the victims own choice/fault or a complete accident. They want to blame someone. Other examples are the Kenneka Jenkins case and the Jaleayah Davis case. Both very odd tragic accidents and the families still believe it to be foul play. I guess if my husband committed suicide I would find it hard to accept that he chose to leave his wife and child behind. Mental illness is clearly still very misunderstood.

Your true crime related videos are a huge breath of fresh air. I find that a lot of true crime videos on RU-vid do tend to overemphasize the possibility of foul play without really researching the mental health angle. Thank you so much for covering so many cases we all care about deeply 🙏 Also, every time I watch your videos my husband pretends to not be watching but secretly turns the volume down on the tv so he can hear 😂❤️

Very *very* profound closing statement Doc. I had never looked at denial that way before, your insight is greatly appreciated

I still think his fellow employees had something to do with this. Its weird that he got a call from his job and it was employees who happened to suggest they check the rooftop. That's not a coincidence.

Curious to know if Rey had a history of mental health issues prior to his move.

Your videos are high quality analysis. Great discussion and plausible explanation of what happened. Thank you for all your research and hard work.

I was waiting for this ! Thanks so much 🤍

Loved this one! Can you please do a video on Gabriel Wortman, the Nova Scotia shooter?

I would rate your videos as very, very, very good. I'll give you an extra one for good measure!

Dr. Grande is prolific! You’re hitting so many good cases!

Thanks Dr. Grande. Your videos always make so much sense. Much needed in these times when conspiracy theories are tearing our country apart.

Dr Grande PLEASE talk about the mental health testing Lori Cox Vallow would have to have gone through in Arizona as part of court order psych evaluation. I dont think C B I followed due process. Thankyou

Would you be able to do the Chris Benoit murder case as shown on Dark Side of the Ring?

Woweee what thorough, and as always, grounded analysis. Thought given to the loved ones too! 👏

Thanks Dr G for another sensible and balanced overview of this episode. Because I have worked in non-clinical mental health, the first thing that came to mind was that Rey was out of touch with reality with some paranoia. I have known a client who took a running leap off a roof because he thought it was a 'test'. Then as I watched I thought that Rey's death was something more sinister - given the 'black and white' information that was provided by Netflix. However, after further reading, I realised that the sensationalism of the episode was very misleading and I had got caught up in the 'mystery'. Rey was very unwell. Some points: He could have taken off his flip flops and put them on his hands so he could run in bare feet. His wife didn't comment about why the 'letter' was taped to the back of the computer and how strange it was. She said he left notes and journals all over the house. Okay, so why was the note not left in a journal? I just feel so sad for the family. I had a dear friend who suicided 20 years ago and the family still cant accept he was profoundly unwell. Consequently he didn't get the medical support he needed. It must of been so scary and confusing for Rey...what a sad ending to a promising life.

Excellent analysis. I saw the Netflix show on this and of course they played up the conspiracy angle. The note was a clear indication that something was physiologically wrong with him. Sad to think his wife is lost in the belief that someone did this to Ray, even if it does bring her comfort as you suggested. She will probably die thinking someone murdered the love of her life, when in fact he was just desperately ill.

This made a lot of sense. I just don’t understand how he went through such a small hole, at least it looks really small. And how his flip flops, phone or whatever it was could have stayed on top of the roof. Maybe he threw them before he jumped? I don’t know. Everything about this case is really, really strange...

Thank you for this thorough piece. Absolutely worth following the methodical progression through the video, and the tail gets to the heart of conspiracy theories - clearly a timely insight. Thanks Dr. Grande.

Thank you so much, great job. I was on the fence about this until seeing this.

Seven ads interrupted my viewing of this video. That’s seems excessive to me.

Dr. Grand, I owe you a big thank you. Through your lucid straight to the point and yet simplified series of analyzes, you helped me start to at least start to think and detect a complex relationship with a seemingly narcissist family. I spent 9 years suffering from them and not understanding or decoding their twisted manoeuves to keep me under their source of supply. I was again and again feeling miserable and yet attached to them, seeing and listening to their twisted mind games but never figured out who they really were. Today, whenever I am there I am more of an amused spectator watching them behave in their sick ways, but never again hitting me. I even, thanks to you, started to develop funny ways to play with them. Sometimes I pour on one or more of them an overdose of ego supply, just for the fun of seeing them smile almost stoned, I could see their ego getting bigger than the room. And then, you taught me how to develop withdrawal tactics and distancing myself whenever I decide so, without calling their wrath and reputation destroying tactics. I feel pity for them. Thank you Dr. Grand for almost setting me free. I can't go into more details but you did help save a marriage.

The clarification at the end was spot on. I think alot of people need to see this to understand just how complex the human mind and mental illness is. Suicide isn't just suicide. It's something beyond that. It's hard to explain but you nailed it!

I needed this from you! This case really got to me. Thank you! Thank you!

Dr. Grande, please make a video on John List!

It's wild that the brain can just break and cause (self) harm out of nowhere. Why? What evolutionary benefit would this stem from?

Thanks Dr. Grande for the great content! Sending you love from Brazil. 💙

Your vids are always really REALLY good Dr.G! I appreciate all you do😉 Thanks

I loved watching unsolved mysteries as a kid. The new series missed the mark for me, but I found this case interesting. As always, thanks for giving us your analysis 🙂

I always love the Goldwater Rule disclaimer! "I'm not diagnosing anybody in this video. Only speculating about what could be happening in a situation like this." Dr. Grande put the first part -- "I'm not diagnosing anybody" -- on his t-shirts! ♥♥♥

You’re videos are absolutely amazing!

Thank you! What a clear and rational analysis, it was really refreshing!

I am just puzzled as to why there seem to be so many conspiracies involving lizard people. Thank you for another interesting and informative video Dr.G!

I wish you would talk about like some of the people that are suffering from grief losing a child or parent or a friend. And how they should bills coping skills and move forward in their life. That's a part of mental health right. I mean to me it's like you have to break down someone's bring when they're psycho. And after a while I just a little old. But I have friends that are suffering from not having a job from losing a parent at the same time. I have friends they're losing their home and you're having grief of disconnecting and that sense of law. One couple had to walk away from their home and get an RV. And sometimes when I speak with them. It's heartbreaking and as a friend how do you code for that.

I'm so thankful that I watched this before watching anything else out there about this subject (and there is a lot). You got to the heart of this in a very succinct, no-nonsense manner, which I greatly appreciate. I pity that poor man. God only knows what he was experiencing, but it must have been terrible. Mental illness is no joke.

Dr Grande, I appreciate your videos so much. I have an employee showing symptoms of psychosis and this video is going to help me so much going forward. Thank you. 🇿🇦

So do you balance a full time job and youtube? You're seriously one of the most consistent content creators

Really looking forward to see your channel grow even more! ❤️

Another great video, with good info on conspiracy theories. Thanks Dr G😊❤

Thank you for this. It is very frightening. It feels like hell on earth. Rivera was a good person who was introduced to a way of life he couldn't navigate or reconcile. It's a great tragedy that he lost his life. We all die, I know Bit also, not all of use make it out alive.