The Boston Strangler: Not Your Average Dude Looking for a Date (Seriously, Don't)
Ah, the 1960s. A time of bell bottoms, groovy tunes, and a serial killer who put the fear of strangers (especially repairmen) into the hearts of single Boston ladies. This wasn't your typical Jack the Ripper lurking in the shadows. This guy, nicknamed the "Boston Strangler," had a thing for neckties...well, more like using them to tie up and strangle his victims. Not exactly a charmer.
 |
| How Was The Boston Strangler |
The Reign of Terror (with Tea and Scones, Probably)
Between 1962 and 1964, thirteen women, ranging from teenagers to octogenarians, were found murdered in their apartments. The MO? Not exactly subtle. The Strangler gained entry into the homes (sometimes willingly!), then things took a turn for the worse. The city was on edge, citizens stocking up on pepper spray faster than you could say "paranoia."
QuickTip: Read step by step, not all at once.
Fun (?) Fact: Back then, the term "serial killer" wasn't even a thing! The Boston Strangler helped pave the way for our modern understanding of these monstrous individuals.
Tip: Take your time with each sentence.
Enter Albert DeSalvo: The Man, The Myth, The Maybe-Murderer?
Finally, in 1965, a guy named Albert DeSalvo waltzed into the picture. He claimed to be the Strangler, confessing to all thirteen murders. But hold on to your hats, folks, because this is where things get twisty.
Tip: Jot down one takeaway from this post.
DeSalvo's confession was full of holes. Like, Swiss cheese level holes. He couldn't always explain key details, and some evidence just didn't line up. Was he the real deal or just a glory-seeker with a dark imagination? The debate continues to this day, fueled by late-night documentaries and books with titles like "The Boston Strangler: Friend or Foe?" (Spoiler alert: definitely not a friend.)
QuickTip: Check if a section answers your question.
 |
DNA evidence later confirmed DeSalvo's involvement in at least one murder, but the jury's still out on whether he was responsible for all thirteen.
So, Who Was the Boston Strangler?
Honestly, your guess is as good as mine. Maybe it was DeSalvo, maybe it was a team effort, maybe it was a rogue knitting circle with a deadly grudge. The truth is a bit murky, which, let's be honest, is kind of the point with these unsolved mysteries. They keep us up at night, wondering what lurks in the shadows (or pretends to be a repairman).
How to Not Be a Victim of the Boston Strangler (Since He's Hopefully Gone, But Stranger Danger Applies to Everyone)
- Don't let random dudes into your apartment, especially if they ask to "check the pipes" at 2 am. There are professionals for that, and they usually come during business hours.
- Trust your gut. If someone gives you the creeps, don't be afraid to slam the door in their face and call the cops. Better safe than strangled (or worse).
- Get to know your neighbors. A friendly community can be a great deterrent for would-be wrongdoers. Plus, then you have someone to borrow sugar from (or call for help if needed).
- Invest in good locks and a security system. A little prevention goes a long way. Just don't rely solely on a "Beware of Dog" sign. Fido might be more interested in chasing squirrels than stopping a maniac.
- Carry pepper spray or take a self-defense class. Empowerment is key, my friends!
There you have it! A crash course on the Boston Strangler, the case that made us all extra cautious about repairmen (sorry, repairmen). Remember, a little healthy skepticism can go a long way. And hey, if nothing else, this story serves as a reminder to always be aware of your surroundings and trust your gut.
 |
