Wiley Harpe

Serial Killer

Wiley Harpe: The Lesser-Known Half of the Harpe Brothers

Introduction

Wiley Harpe, also known as "Little Harpe," was an American serial killer who, along with his cousin Micajah "Big Harpe," terrorized the frontier during the late 18th century. The Harpe brothers are often considered America’s first documented serial killers, leaving a bloody trail of murder across Kentucky, Tennessee, and Illinois between 1797 and 1799.

The Harpe Brothers' Crimes

Wiley and Micajah Harpe were known for their brutal and indiscriminate killings, targeting men, women, and even children. Their motives were often unclear, as they sometimes killed for robbery but frequently seemed to murder for pleasure. Unlike typical bandits of the time, the Harpes left behind mutilated victims, often disemboweled and filled with rocks before being discarded in rivers. ...

Confirmed Victims: (0)

Harpe brothers - Wikipedia