John Rodney Mcrae

Serial Killer

John Rodney McRae: Convicted Child Murderer and Suspected Serial Killer

Overview

John Rodney McRae was an American murderer who was convicted of killing two boys in Michigan and later became the principal suspect in the unresolved disappearances of several young males in Florida. His known criminal history extended across nearly four decades, beginning with the murder of an eight-year-old neighbor in 1950 and ending with the 1987 killing of a Michigan teenager. Although McRae was never convicted of the Florida cases, investigators believed that his movements, access to vulnerable youths and documented history of violence made him a strong suspect. McRae was born on November 20, 1934, in Belleville, Michigan. During his adolescence, he developed a reputation for theft, aggressive behavior and inappropriate conduct toward younger children. He was only 15 years old when he committed his first confirmed murder. Despite the severity of that crime, McRae was eventually paroled, allowing him to return to society and place himself in positions that gave him access to children and teenagers.

The Murder of Joseph "Joey" Housey Jr.

On September 9, 1950, eight-year-old Joseph James "Joey" Housey Jr. disappeared while playing near his home in St. Clair Shores, Michigan. McRae lived in the same neighborhood and joined residents and police officers in searching for the missing child. His participation in the search later appeared especially disturbing because he already knew where Joey had been left. Joey's body was discovered on September 23, 1950, in a shallow grave in a secluded area only a short distance from his home. Rain had disturbed material covering the grave, making it easier for searchers to locate. Investigators determined that Joey had suffered knife wounds and severe injuries to his head. Evidence also indicated that he had been sexually assaulted. McRae attracted suspicion after making unusual statements about evidence connected to the disappearance and failing to provide a satisfactory account of his movements. Before police could question him further, he fled toward Canada. He left a note denying involvement, stole a boat and traveled to Sarnia, Ontario, where authorities eventually located him. After being returned to Michigan, McRae confessed during questioning on October 1, 1950. He admitted attacking Joey but refused to give a clear explanation for his motive. He later withdrew the confession and attempted to present an insanity defense. Psychiatric evaluation found that he understood his actions and was competent to face prosecution. On February 21, 1951, McRae was convicted of Joey Housey's murder. He received a life sentence and was sent to prison. Because McRae was a juvenile at the time of the killing, his sentence was later modified to permit the possibility of parole. He was released on February 2, 1972, after serving approximately 21 years. ...

Confirmed Victims: (2)

Joey Housey Age: (8), Date of Death: 1950-09-23

Suspected Victims:

Keith Fleming Age: (13), Date of Death: 1977-04-28

Kip Hess Age: (12), Date of Death: 1979-03-27

Charles Collingwood Age: (20), Date of Death: 1979-12-12

John Rodney McRae - Wikipedia