Historical Events tagged with "serial killer"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Crime & Law

Arrest of Juana Barraza Linked to Serial Killings

January 25th, 2006 19 years ago

Juana Barraza, a Mexican professional wrestler, was arrested in connection with the serial killings of at least ten elderly women in Mexico City. Known by her wrestling persona 'La Mataviejitas' or 'The Old Lady Killer', Barraza was suspected of targeting vulnerable women in their homes since 2003. Her arrest came after a lengthy police investigation that linked her to the crimes through forensic evidence, including DNA. Barraza's case garnered significant media attention and raised awareness about violence against the elderly and women's safety in Mexico.

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Crime & Law

Jeffrey Dahmer Sentenced to Life in Prison

February 15th, 1992 33 years ago

Jeffrey Dahmer was sentenced to 15 consecutive life terms in prison for the murder and dismemberment of 17 young men and boys in Milwaukee. The trial revealed horrifying details of his gruesome crimes, including necrophilia and cannibalism. Dahmer's actions shocked the nation, leading to widespread media coverage and public outrage. His admission of guilt and subsequent sentencing marked a pivotal moment in understanding violent crime in America.

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Crime & Law

Richard Ramirez Begins His Night Stalker Murders

March 17th, 1985 39 years ago

In Los Angeles, Richard Ramirez, branding himself as the 'Night Stalker', committed his first two murders during a violent crime spree that would terrorize the city. His method was characterized by extreme brutality, breaking into homes in the night, attacking his victims with a variety of weapons, and often leaving disturbing messages behind. He targeted both men and women, suggesting a pattern of indiscriminate violence. The police were initially baffled, as Ramirez evaded capture by changing his appearance and tactics frequently.

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Crime & Law

Arrest of Serial Killer Peter Sutcliffe

January 2nd, 1981 44 years ago

Peter Sutcliffe, infamously known as the Yorkshire Ripper, was arrested by police in Sheffield, South Yorkshire. His capture concluded one of the most extensive investigations by a British police force, which sought to apprehend the perpetrator responsible for a series of brutal murders of women across Northern England. This arrest marked a significant breakthrough in a case that had terrified communities and strained police resources for several years.

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Crime & Law

Zodiac Killer's First Victims in Benicia

December 20th, 1968 56 years ago

David Arthur Faraday and Betty Lou Jensen were murdered on Lake Herman Road in Benicia, California, marking the first two victims officially linked to the Zodiac Killer. The couple was shot while parked in Faraday's car, a brutal act that shocked the local community. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots, and the crime scene was discovered soon after, raising alarms about a potential serial killer in the area. The Zodiac Killer would later taunt authorities and the public with letters, claiming responsibility for the murders and other attacks.

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Crime & Law

Mary Jane Kelly Murdered by Jack the Ripper

November 9th, 1888 136 years ago

Mary Jane Kelly, the final canonical victim of Jack the Ripper, was murdered in her room at 13 Miller's Court, Dorset Street, in Whitechapel, London. On the morning of November 9, her body was discovered by her landlord, who had been sent by neighbors to check on her after she had not been seen. The gruesome nature of the crime, featuring extensive mutilation, shocked the public and intensified the hysteria surrounding the Ripper's identity.

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Crime & Law

Gilles de Rais Arrested on Accusations

September 15th, 1440 584 years ago

Gilles de Rais, a former military captain and known companion of Joan of Arc, is taken into custody following accusations of heinous crimes against children. Jean de Malestroit, the Bishop of Nantes, brought forth the charge, citing numerous local families claiming their missing children were last seen in the company of de Rais. This incident marked the beginning of a notorious trial that unveiled gruesome details of de Rais's actions and his reputed involvement in black magic and alchemy.

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