Willie Luther Steelman

Serial Killer

Willie Luther Steelman: A Detailed Account of His Crimes

Background

Willie Luther Steelman, born on March 21, 1945, in San Joaquin County, California, embarked on a notorious crime spree in 1973 alongside his accomplice, Douglas Edward Gretzler. Together, they were responsible for the deaths of seventeen individuals across Arizona and California during a span of less than a month.

Crime Spree Overview

The duo's series of violent crimes began in October 1973 and continued until their apprehension in November of the same year. Their actions were primarily motivated by robbery and the elimination of potential witnesses, leading to a trail of brutal murders.

Detailed Account of Crimes

October 17, 1973: Murders of Ken Unrein and Mike Adshade

In Phoenix, Arizona, Steelman and Gretzler kidnapped acquaintances Ken Unrein and Mike Adshade. They transported them to Stanislaus County, California, where both victims were strangled and stabbed to death. Their bodies were concealed, and the perpetrators continued their journey using the victims' vehicle.

October 25, 1973: Murders of Bob Robbins and Yafah Hacohen

Upon returning to Phoenix, the pair targeted Bob Robbins and his girlfriend, Yafah Hacohen, fearing they might suspect their involvement in the earlier disappearances. They murdered Robbins by garroting and shooting him, and later killed Hacohen upon her return home.

November 3, 1973: Murders of Michael and Patricia Sandberg

In Tucson, Arizona, Steelman and Gretzler abducted Michael Sandberg while he was washing his car, forcing him into his condominium where his wife, Patricia, was present. Both victims were bound and gagged; Michael was shot in the head, and Patricia was also fatally shot after enduring prolonged fear and distress.

November 6-7, 1973: Victor, California Massacre

The crime spree culminated in Victor, California, where Steelman and Gretzler invaded the home of Walter and Joanne Parkin. They held nine individuals hostage, including two children. After forcing Walter Parkin to open the safe at his store, yielding approximately $4,000, they methodically executed all nine hostages. ...Read More

Confirmed Victims: (14)

Ken Unrein Age: (21), Date of Death: October 17, 1973

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File:Willie Luther Steelman Mug Shot AZ 1973.jpg - Wikimedia ...

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