Jeffrey Lynn Feltner: The Nurse's Aide Turned Serial Killer
Early Life and Background
Jeffrey Lynn Feltner was born in 1963 in Miami, Florida. His parents separated three months before his birth, leading him to be raised by his mother alongside three older siblings. Feltner was notably small in stature, standing at 5'3" and weighing just over 100 pounds as an adult. This physical characteristic made him a target for teasing during his childhood, leading him to prefer indoor activities over socializing with peers. At 16, Feltner relocated with his family to Melrose, Florida, where he adjusted well, made friends, and maintained average academic performance. After high school, he began working as a nurse's aide at the same nursing home where his mother was employed. His exceptional performance led to a swift promotion to aide supervisor.
The Murders
Between 1988 and 1989, Feltner exploited his position in nursing homes across Florida to commit a series of murders. His victims were primarily elderly patients under his care. The following is a detailed list of his known victims:
- Bernie "Berniece" Katherine Olsen: 69-year-old retired schoolteacher who had moved to Florida to be closer to her sister. Died on February 7, 1988, initially attributed to Alzheimer's disease.
- Lathan Thornton: 82-year-old retired U.S. Navy veteran from Gainesville. Died on February 8, 1988.
- Sarah F. Abrams: 75-year-old active senior, neither bedridden nor suicidal, with only age-related issues. Died on February 10, 1988. Family noticed suspicious bruises around her nose and mouth and requested an autopsy, which was initially dismissed. Her body was later exhumed, revealing evidence of smothering and broken ribs.
- Rita May Sugrue: 63-year-old who died on February 18, 1988.
- William H. James: 73-year-old war veteran from Jacksonville. Died on April 6, 1988, having been suffocated by Feltner.
- Doris Moriarty: 83-year-old resident of Clyatt Memorial Center in Daytona Beach. Died on July 11, 1989, about a month after Feltner began working there. Her death was not considered suspicious at the time due to her ill health.
- Ruby P. Swisher: 81-year-old patient at Bowman's Nursing Home in Ormond Beach. Died on July 27, 1989, initially considered a natural death.
Investigation and Arrest
In July 1988, Feltner anonymously contacted a crisis hotline and a television station, confessing to the murders of five nursing home residents, claiming they were mercy killings. He also warned that he would likely kill again. Despite being questioned by investigators, there was insufficient evidence to charge him, and the investigation was temporarily halted. However, Feltner continued making anonymous calls, confessing to additional murders and providing details about his methods. These calls, combined with information from his roommate, led to his arrest in August 1989 on a charge of first-degree murder.
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