(Austin, Texas) – We all know that serial killers are terrible people and should not be celebrated. That does not take away our fascination for them. We always wonder why they kill, why they do it so brutally and why these specific people. Modern technology makes solving a crime much easier than it was twenty years ago. That’s why the massacres from 100 or more years ago are so difficult to solve. The first serial killings took place in Austin in the late 19th century, and you can walk the path of that killing spree today.
The path of America’s first serial killer
On December 20, 1884, Mollie Smith was killed in the small town of Austin when she was struck 24 times with an ax. Witnesses said she looked as if she had been attacked by a wild animal. The following year, eight more people were brutally murdered. He or she was never arrested. This may sound like a scary story to tell around the campfire, but it isn’t. It is the beginning of what is considered America’s first serial killer.
The story of the “Midnight Assassin” is recreated while walking through Austin Austin Walking Tours (KVUE). Even during these holidays, you can find a way to spoil yourself. There are guided tours every weekend. Could make for a cool road trip between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
A bit of history lesson
This isn’t just a tour to scare you. It’s also a great way to learn about the early days of our state’s capital. The guide, Jim Miles, is actually a history teacher by day. He says the majority of people on the tour are from Austin and just want to know more.
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