206 Cases Solved. Advancing justice for missing persons, unsolved homicides, unidentified and unclaimed remains.
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Description
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Louis Craine: A Detailed Account of His Crimes

Early Life

Louis Craine was born on January 6, 1957, in Los Angeles, California, as the third of four siblings. During his early years, he exhibited signs of intellectual disability, leading to academic struggles. He left school after completing the fourth grade, which caused tension within his family. In the early 1970s, Craine left his parents' home and became transient, undertaking various low-skilled jobs in the construction industry. By 1987, he was unemployed and residing with his family.

Criminal Activities

Between 1984 and 1987, a series of murders targeting Black sex workers occurred in South Los Angeles. These crimes were initially attributed to a single perpetrator dubbed the "Southside Slayer." However, investigations later revealed that multiple serial killers were operating in the area during this period, with Louis Craine identified as one of them.

Victims

Louis Craine was convicted of murdering the following women:
  • Sheila Burton
    • Date of Murder: November 18, 1984
    • Location: South Los Angeles, California
  • Gail Ficklin
    • Date of Murder: August 15, 1985
    • Location: South Los Angeles, California
  • Loretta Perry
    • Date of Murder: January 25, 1987
    • Location: South Los Angeles, California
  • Vivian Collins
    • Date of Murder: March 18, 1987
    • Location: South Los Angeles, California
  • Carolyn Barney
    • Date of Murder: May 27, 1987
    • Location: South Los Angeles, California
...Read More
Victims
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Confirmed Victims: (5)
  • Sheila Burton , Date of Death: 1984-11-18
  •     ...View 4 additional victims
    Links to Additional Sources (13)
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    Killer's Details

    Louis

    Craine

    January 6, 1957 Los Angeles, California, United States

    November 3, 1989 (aged 32) San Rafael, California, United States

    AIDS complications

    Male

    Black

    The Southside Slayer

    Murder

    Death

    4-5+

    1984 - 1987

    California

    May 29, 1987

    San Quentin State Prison — San Quentin, California

    07/03/2025