David Joseph Carpenter

Serial Killer

David Joseph Carpenter: The Trailside Killer

Introduction

David Joseph Carpenter, also known as the "Trailside Killer," is an American serial killer convicted of multiple murders in California during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Carpenter's crimes were particularly brutal, as he targeted individuals hiking or jogging on remote trails. His reign of terror left a lasting impact on the communities affected by his murders.

Background

Born on May 6, 1930, in San Francisco, Carpenter had a troubled upbringing. He exhibited violent tendencies from an early age and had a history of sexual assault and violent crime long before his killing spree began. Carpenter had previous convictions for assault and attempted murder, which resulted in lengthy prison sentences before he committed his first known murder.

The Trailside Murders

Between 1979 and 1981, Carpenter terrorized the hiking trails of Northern California, murdering at least ten people. He primarily targeted women but also killed men who were accompanying them. His method of attack often involved ambushing his victims in isolated areas, sexually assaulting female victims, and then executing them with a firearm. ...Read More

Confirmed Victims: (8)

Mary Frances Bennett Age: (23), Date of Death: October 21, 1979

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Suspected Victims:

Edda Kane Age: (44), Date of Death: August 19, 1979

Barbara Schwartz Age: (23), Date of Death: March 8, 1980

Survivors:

Lois Irene DeAndrade Rinna , Date of Attack: July 1960

Cheryl Lynn Smith , Date of Attack: January 27, 1970

Wilma Joyce , Date of Attack: January 27, 1970

Steven Haertle , Date of Attack: March 29, 1981

David Carpenter - Wikipedia

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