206 Cases Solved. Advancing justice for missing persons, unsolved homicides, unidentified and unclaimed remains.
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Description
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Dayton Strangler: A Decade of Terror

Introduction

The Dayton Strangler, also known as "Strangler of Death Lane" and "Jack the Strangler," was an unidentified serial killer responsible for a series of brutal murders in Dayton, Ohio, from 1900 to 1909. The killer's identity remains unknown, and the murders have never been officially solved.

Victims

  • Ada Lantz: An 11-year-old girl found in a vault in her parents' backyard on October 14, 1900. She had been mutilated, bruised, and sexually assaulted.
  • Dona Gilman: A 20-year-old bindery department employee found in some weeds 200 yards from her home on November 20, 1906. She had been assaulted and strangled.
  • Anna Markowitz and Abe Cohan: On August 4, 1907, Anna, a 24-year-old pawn broker's daughter, and her boyfriend, Abe, were attacked in McCabe Park. Abe was shot and later died, while Anna was raped and strangled.
  • Mary Forschner: A 15-year-old girl found beaten, raped, and strangled in a barn on January 24, 1909. The killer's large handprints were found on her neck.
  • Elizabeth "Lizzie" Fulhart: An 18-year-old girl found strangled in a cistern behind a synagogue on February 8, 1909. Her body was in a decomposed condition, making the cause of death difficult to determine.

Conclusion

The Dayton Strangler's reign of terror left a lasting impact on the community. Despite numerous arrests and confessions, the true identity of the killer remains a mystery. The murders continue to haunt the city of Dayton, serving as a chilling reminder of the unsolved crimes that once gripped the region. ...Read More
Victims
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Confirmed Victims: (6)
  • Ada Lantz Age: (11), Date of Death: 1900-10-14
  •     ...View 5 additional victims
    Links to Additional Sources (15)
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    Killer's Details

    Dayton

    Strangler

    Dayton Strangler, Strangler of Death Lane, Man Gorilla of Death Lane, Jack the Strangler

    6

    1900 - 1909

    Ohio

    07/03/2025