by JRR

Created on: April 16, 2009

Even the mention of serial killers catches the attention of the public. For many it is a reaction of fear. For others it is a fascination that is as unexplainable as the minds of the killers themselves.

The entertainment industry must be given a good deal of credit (or blame depending on how you view things) for the amount of exposure many of these killers receive. With all the true crime shows available on television, people are able to obtain a look into the lives and crimes of these vicious murderers that would otherwise be unavailable. Add to that movies such as Zodiac about a still unidentified killer and Monster which is based on the life of Aileen Wuornos a female serial killer, just to name a couple, information both factual and fictional is available to almost everyone.

Many people tend to be drawn to that which they don't understand. Serial killers are no exception. Not being able to understand what drives them, not understanding what makes their minds work or what could have caused them to become what they are is a point of fascination. Some people are interested by facts about serial killers in general. Not only about common characteristics before they make their first kill but also how they choose their victims and the types of victims they seek. While others are drawn more by specifics about certain killers.

Mention the name Jack The Ripper and most people will at least have an idea of who you are refering to. Even though his killing spree was in 1888, the entertainment industry keeps him alive in the minds of the public. Although he had only five known victims and isn't the only serial killer to remain unidentified, it is fair to say he is the most recognized.

There are others of course in more recent years whom people know immediately. Such monsters as Ted Bundy (responsible for 22+ deaths) John Wayne Gacy (33 victims) or Jeffrey Dahmer (17 victims). Then there are those less known such as Pedro Alonso Lopez who was responsible for 300+ deaths and Henry Lee Lucas and his partner in crime Otis Toole who claim credit for 6-200+ victims.

The FBI and other law enforcement agencies estimate there are presently between 35-50 serial killers running loose in the U.S. Others estimate it much closer to 500. It is statistics like this that make it impossible for people to lose interest, if not out of fear, then out of curiosity.

The fear of the unknown seems to draw people. It captures their attention with the thought of understanding the unexplainable. They feel they may be the one to do what has yet remained undone, figure out the minds of these monsters and put a stop to their murderous rampages before they begin. Regardless of the reason the appeal is apparent, and only seems to grow as the years pass.

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