Charles Rodman Campbell: The Crimes of a Serial Killer
Introduction
Charles Rodman Campbell was an American serial killer and rapist who committed heinous crimes in Washington State. His acts of violence resulted in the brutal deaths of multiple victims, and he was later convicted and executed for his crimes. His case is notable for its sheer brutality and the tragic failure of the justice system to prevent further killings. In 2023, DNA evidence linked Campbell to an unsolved 1975 murder, further solidifying his violent legacy.
The Crimes
Charles Rodman Campbell first came to the attention of law enforcement in 1974 when he was convicted of raping Renae Wicklund in her Clearview, Washington, home. Despite his conviction, he was later released on parole, a decision that would prove catastrophic.
The Murders
On April 14, 1982, Campbell returned to the same residence where he had previously attacked Renae Wicklund. This time, he carried out a horrific murder spree, killing three people in cold blood.
- Renae Wicklund – The 31-year-old woman, whom Campbell had previously raped, was brutally murdered in her home.
- Shana Wicklund – Renae’s 8-year-old daughter, who was also killed during the attack.
- Barbara Hendrickson – A neighbor and friend of Renae, who was at the home during the attack and was also murdered.
Campbell attacked the victims with a knife, slitting their throats and leaving a gruesome crime scene behind. The killings were particularly shocking because they could have been prevented if the justice system had not allowed his release.
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