Joseph 'Jae' Stevens, a 27-year-old performer known for his work as a female impersonator at Finnochio's in San Francisco, was tragically murdered on June 25, 1974. His body was discovered near Spreckels Lake in Golden Gate Park, having suffered multiple stab wounds. Stevens was one of the victims of an unidentified serial killer known as 'The Doodler,' who targeted men in San Francisco between 1974 and 1975.
The Doodler, named for his habit of sketching his victims before attacking them, was believed to have killed between six and sixteen individuals, with three surviving his assaults. Stevens was the second confirmed victim of this elusive murderer. The suspect was described as a Black man between 19 and 25 years old, standing approximately six feet tall with a slender build. Authorities suspected that Stevens had met his killer at a club the night before his death and had likely traveled to the location where his body was found with the perpetrator.
Despite police efforts, the Doodler was never apprehended. Investigators had a strong suspect in mind and even interviewed him in January 1976, but no charges were ever filed. The case remained unsolved, largely due to the reluctance of surviving victims—some of whom were prominent figures—to testify, fearing exposure of their sexual orientation during a time of widespread discrimination. Additionally, a psychiatrist reportedly received a confession from the suspect during therapy sessions, but this information did not lead to an arrest.
The murder of Joseph Jae Stevens remains one of many tragic cases linked to the Doodler, a serial killer who terrorized San Francisco's LGBTQ+ community. Despite renewed efforts by law enforcement, including an increased reward for information, justice has yet to be served.
