John Randolph Kizer

Serial Killer

John Randolph Kizer: A Tale of Murderous Greed in Rural Arkansas

Early Life and Background

John Randolph Kizer was born on January 11, 1871, in Dalton, Randolph County, Arkansas. He was the son of Francis Marion Kizer and Catharine Lane. Throughout his life, Kizer remained in Randolph County, establishing himself as a veterinarian and becoming the county's first county agent. He married twice, first to Birdie Surridge and later to Rosena Bonner; neither marriage produced children.

Criminal Activities

Between 1925 and 1936, Kizer embarked on a series of murders driven by greed and a desire for financial gain. Utilizing his medical knowledge and standing in the community, he evaded suspicion while committing his heinous acts. His typical modus operandi involved poisoning his victims, often diagnosing them with ailments like malaria to cover up his crimes.

Known Victims

• Birdie Brooks Kizer: Kizer's first wife, who died on December 22, 1927, shortly after he purchased a life insurance policy on her. She suffered a painful death, with her arm swelling severely due to the poisoning.
• Elmer Anderson: A rancher whose wife, Martha, was the object of Kizer's affection. After Anderson's death, Kizer proposed to Martha, but she declined.
• Mr. and Mrs. Robert Riggs: Farmers and relatives of Kizer. Mrs. Riggs, his niece, died first, followed by her husband after Kizer manipulated them into reciprocal wills.
• Lizzie Robinson and Willa Brown: Two elderly women whom Kizer agreed to care for, with the understanding that he would inherit their estates upon their deaths.
• Rozena Bonner Arnold: Kizer's second wife, a widow who had inherited valuable property.
• Mr. and Mrs. M.E. Bonner: Rozena's parents, who also fell victim to Kizer's schemes.
• Bonner Arnold: Rozena's son and a football player at Pocahontas High School, who died under Kizer's care.

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Confirmed Victims: (8)

Birdie Brooks Kizer , Date of Death: 1927-12-22

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Book gets the story straight about suspected serial killer John Kizer

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