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Description
See any errors? Let us know!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 MoreVictims
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Confirmed Victims: (8)
Mary Frances Bennett Age: (23), Date of Death: October 21, 1979 ...View 7 additional victims
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
Suspected Victims:
Survivors:
Links to Additional Sources (9)
See any mistakes? Let us know!Killer's Details
David Joseph
Carpenter
May 6, 1930 (age 94) San Francisco, California, United States
Male
White
The Trailside Killer
Attempted murder, Attempted rape, Kidnapping, Murder, Rape, Robbery
Suspended death sentence
8-10+
August 19, 1979 - May 2, 1981
California
May 14, 1981
San Quentin State Prison (CDCR #: C96500) — San Quentin, California
07/03/2025










