The Boston Strangler: Not Your Average Party Guest (Unless It Was a Murder Party)
Ah, the 1960s. A time of tie-dye, groovy tunes, and...serial killers with a penchant for neckties (of the fatal variety). Today, we're taking a trip back to Beantown to uncover the chilling case of the Boston Strangler.
How Did The Boston Strangler Kill |
The Reign of Terror: When Being Home Alone Took on a New Meaning
Between 1962 and 1964, fear gripped Boston. Single women were being targeted in their apartments, victims of a serial killer later dubbed the "Boston Strangler." The MO? Well, it wasn't exactly offering cookies and Girl Scout gossip. The Strangler would gain entry (sometimes posing as a repairman, other times just waltzing right in - security wasn't exactly top-notch back then), overpower the women, and then...strangle them. Usually with ligatures like scarves or belts, because who needs a fruit basket when you've got a deadly necktie collection?
The Victims: The Strangler wasn't picky. His victims ranged in age from 19 to 85, proving that a killer with a bad taste in neckwear can strike anyone. The city was on edge. Women clutched pepper spray like it was the latest fashion accessory (pepper spray was all the rage...apparently).
Tip: Reading in short bursts can keep focus high.
Catching the Critter: Enter Albert DeSalvo, the Man, the Myth, the Maybe-Murderer
The investigation was a rollercoaster. Leads went cold faster than a bowl of clam chowder on a Tuesday. Then, a suspect emerged: Albert DeSalvo. DeSalvo confessed to all the murders (well, most of them), but there were inconsistencies. Some details he got wrong, and some victims' descriptions didn't quite match. Was he the real deal, or just a guy who liked the notoriety? The jury's still technically out, but DNA evidence in 2013 points to DeSalvo at least being responsible for some of the murders.
The Legacy: The Boston Strangler case highlighted the dangers women faced living alone and the importance of good security measures (although hopefully not involving booby-trapped neckties). It also showed the challenges of catching serial killers, especially when details are murky.
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FAQ: How to Not Become a Strangler Victim (Because That Sounds Like a Bad Time)
1. How to Avoid Strangers (Especially Creepy Ones): Trust your gut! If someone seems off, don't let them in.
2. How to Channel Your Inner Fortress: Deadbolts, peepholes, security systems - befriend them!
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3. How to Make Friends with Pepper Spray (But Not Too Friendly): Keep it handy, but remember, pepper spray parties are not a vibe.
4. How to Have a Girls' Night with an Alibi: Buddy up! There's safety in numbers (and gossip sessions).
Tip: Look for small cues in wording.
5. How to Throw the Best Murder Mystery Party (Without Anyone Actually Getting Murdered): Invest in some fun clues, not strangulation devices.