For the sake of argument, taking the ZODIAC Killer Case as solved, what major, confirmed serial killer cases remain to be solved? How would you rank them in terms of solvability?
Technically, it always begins with Jack the Ripper. But in terms of solving, I don’t think in any accepted meaning of that word “solve” it is the most solvable case. Then there’s the Cleveland Torso Murders– again very difficult because of lack of evidence. The Doodler is so confused that the public can hardly help, and SF isn’t releasing much information.
But . . .how would you compile them? What case, in essence, should become the focal of attention? Should it be the Long Island Serial Killer? Should it be the Colonial Parkway Murders? The Atlanta Lovers’ Lanes Murders? The Phantom of Texarkana? The Monster of Florence? Mr. Cruel?
. . .Or is it more important to bring to light cases that need weaving together and a possible serial killer brought to light as in operation? –The Houston Stalker? The Killing Fields? Certain attacks along highways?
As important as solving some of the outstanding (remaining) unsolved serial killer cases there are the long hours of research and press attention needed to expose the existence of serial killers having been in action.
Within this category is the Smiley Face Killer Theory. Personally, I don’t believe the theory. But within the vast dossier of young men found drowned in unusual circumstances, there are probably at least 6 or 7 cases of murder. They may not be connected, but then a few might be . . .and that means a serial.
Researchers should devote a long and critical amount of time to looking into these cases of drowned or missing college guys– not to prove the Smiley Theory. Rather the reason should be to establish just how many were likely murdered and therefore bring attention to those cases. We’ve heard of McNeill and Jenkins, but in between and thereafter there are some very unusual cases.
So compile your own list and rank the cases. What do you think should be the cases on the chalkboard?
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Since 1990 Gian J. Quasar has investigated a broad range of mysterious subjects, from strange disappearances to serial murders, earning in that time the unique distinction of being likened to “the real life Kolchak.” However, he is much more at home with being called The Quester or Q Man. “He’s bloody eccentric, an historian with no qualifications who sticks his nose into affairs and gets results.” He is the author of several books, one of which inspired a Resolution in Congress.