David Berkowitz: The Lowdown on the Son of Sam

Hey there, true crime fans! Today, we take a brief look at the story of David Berkowitz, also known as the Son of Sam. This notorious serial killer terrorised New York City in the late 1970s, leaving a trail of fear and paranoia in his wake.

Let’s uncover the dark secrets of Berkowitz’s life and crimes, including five facts about this sinister slice of true crime history.

A Reign of Terror

Between July 1976 and July 1977, David Berkowitz murdered six people and injured seven others in a series of random attacks. He targeted young women, often shooting couples in parked cars, and left behind taunting letters that further fuelled the city’s panic.

Letters to the Press

During his murder spree, Berkowitz sent chilling letters to the press, particularly columnist Jimmy Breslin. In these letters, he referred to himself as the “Son of Sam,” claiming that he was commanded to kill by a demon who possessed his neighbour’s dog, Sam.

A Nationwide Manhunt

Berkowitz’s crimes sparked one of the largest manhunts in New York City history, with over 300 police officers working full time on the case. The investigation involved numerous agencies, including the FBI, and even prompted the NYPD to consult with a psychologist to create a profile of the killer.

An Unlikely Arrest

In a twist of fate, Berkowitz was caught after receiving a parking ticket near the scene of his final murder. When police searched his car, they found a rifle, ammunition, and a letter addressed to the Suffolk County Police Department, which contained details about his crimes.

READ NEXT: Pima County Jane Doe and the Identification of Brenda Gerow | True Crime Shorts

A Media Circus

After his arrest, Berkowitz’s case became a media sensation, with his bizarre claims and eerie letters captivating the public’s imagination. He later admitted that the “Son of Sam” persona and the demonic dog story were hoaxes, designed to confuse investigators and garner media attention.

That was the lowdown on David Berkowitz, the Son of Sam, who wreaked havoc on New York City more than four decades ago. These five intriguing facts about his life and crimes give us a glimpse into the twisted mind of a serial killer who terrorised a city and captured the world’s attention.

It’s a chilling reminder that sometimes, the most horrifying tales are the ones that are all too real. Stay safe out there, and keep exploring the endless world of true crime stories!

READ NEXT: More Facts About David Berkowitz, AKA: the Son of Sam