206 Cases Solved. Advancing justice for missing persons, unsolved homicides, unidentified and unclaimed remains.
⚠️ Warning: Viewer Discretion Advised ⚠️ The following section contains detailed information about serial killers, their crimes, and case details. Some content may be disturbing or graphic, including descriptions of violence, criminal behavior, and sensitive subject matter.
Description
See any errors? Let us know!

Larry Dean Bright: The Bonecrusher Serial Killer

Introduction

Larry Dean Bright, infamously known as "The Bonecrusher," is an American serial killer who terrorized central Illinois between July 2003 and October 2004. During this period, he was responsible for the deaths of at least eight women, primarily targeting African-American sex workers. His gruesome methods of disposing of bodies, which included burning and crushing bone fragments, instilled fear and horror in the communities of Peoria and Tazewell Counties.

Early Life and Background

Born on July 8, 1966, in Peoria County, Illinois, Bright's early life was marked by instability and criminal behavior. At the age of 19, he served a two-year prison sentence for residential and vehicular burglary. Family members noted a significant change in his demeanor following his incarceration, with Bright developing dependencies on hard drugs, particularly crack cocaine, and prescription painkillers. This period also saw an increase in his interactions with sex workers, especially those of African-American descent.

The Killing Spree

Over a span of 15 months, Bright embarked on a murderous rampage, claiming the lives of eight women. His modus operandi typically involved luring victims with promises of drugs or money in exchange for sexual services. Once isolated, he would strangle them, often during intercourse. To conceal his crimes, Bright resorted to burning the bodies in his backyard and crushing the remaining bone fragments, leading to his macabre nickname. ...Read More
Victims
See any mistakes? Let us know!
Confirmed Victims: (8)
  • Sabrina Payne Age: (36), Date of Death: 2004-07-25
  •     ...View 7 additional victims
    Links to Additional Sources (15)
    See any mistakes? Let us know!
    Killer's Details

    Larry

    Bright

    July 8, 1966 (age 58) Peoria County, Illinois, United States

    Male

    White

    The Bonecrusher

    Murder (x8), Theft, Burglary

    Life imprisonment (x8)

    8+

    2003 - 2004

    Illinois, Possibly elsewhere

    Chicago

    January 20, 2005

    07/03/2025