Virgil Hassell, a 15-year-old boy from Farewell, Texas, tragically lost his life on December 5, 1926. His death was part of a horrific family massacre carried out by his uncle and stepfather, George Hassell. George Hassell, who had a history of criminal behavior, murdered Virgil along with his mother Susie, age 41, and his seven siblings, ranging in age from 4 to 21.
The motive behind the killings was reportedly a crime of passion, sparked by an argument over George's involvement with Susie's underage daughter.
The night of the murders, George Hassell argued with his wife Susie and proceeded to kill her with a ballpeen hammer. He then moved through the house, using a straight razor and stockings to kill each family member from youngest to oldest. The bodies were stored in a newly dug root cellar by the house. When the eldest son, Alton, returned home, George killed him as well, completing the tragic and brutal massacre.
The crime was discovered when George Hassell attempted to sell the family's belongings in a large yard sale, arousing suspicion among the townspeople. Law enforcement was alerted, and excavations revealed the remains in the root cellar. George Hassell was arrested and confessed to the murders. He was quickly tried and sentenced to death. On February 2, 1928, George Hassell was executed by electrocution, becoming the 27th man executed in the state of Texas.
This tragic event left a lasting impact on the small community of Farewell, Texas, and remains a dark chapter in its history.
