In January 2022, Hannah Pettey faced severe health struggles. Six months of escalating pain left her bedridden. Her son Lincoln was three, and daughter Gracie was two, but Hannah couldn’t even attend Gracie’s birthday party due to her weakness. She relied heavily on an office chair to move around her home.
Hannah’s husband, Brian Mann, a chiropractor, was supportive but unable to diagnose her condition. Brian admitted his limitations and sought specialist care for Hannah. Eventually, the case led the medical team to discover an astronomical amount of lead in Hannah’s body. Doctors declared the consumption was intentional and reported it to the relevant authorities.
“Her colon was packed full of lead,” said her neurologist. The situation indicated an attempted murder.
The hospital isolated Hannah, restricting access to Brian and Nicole. Investigations opened into potential suspects. Brian accused Nicole of past interference, exacerbating the situation. Nicole’s relationship with Hannah evolved over time, having been a source of tension.
The investigation took a turn when lead found in Brian’s chiropractic office led authorities to suspect deliberate poisoning through lead-filled capsules. Allegations of insurance motives emerged. Brian faced charges of attempted murder with claims of substantial life insurance incentives compounding suspicions.
Upon her recovery, Hannah faced personal turmoil as she discovered Brian had taken out significant life insurance policies on her, during and before her hospitalization. Prosecutors believed Brian’s poisoning method involved lead shavings placed inside capsules, easy to ingest but hard to detect in food.
Despite no physical evidence found at Brian’s residence, a contractor linked the lead to Brian’s office, offering insights into the case. The trial proceeded despite Brian’s continued denial, painting a picture of manipulation and potential life-threatening actions.
Ultimately, Brian Mann was found guilty of attempted murder and sentenced to life in prison in August 2025. The trial underscored the depth of domestic violence, revealing the complexities in Hannah’s relationship and recovery journey.
Hannah has since moved on, completing her degree and starting a new life focused on teaching and her children, determined to reclaim her space and build a new reality in her former home.
For those experiencing domestic violence, the National Domestic Violence Hotline offers support at 1-800-799-7233.
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