Paul John Knowles

Serial Killer

Paul John Knowles: The Casanova Killer

Early Life and Criminal History

Paul John Knowles was an American serial killer whose violent journey across the United States in 1974 left at least 18 people dead. Nicknamed the "Casanova Killer" because of his appearance and ability to charm strangers, Knowles targeted men, women and children during a crime spree that crossed numerous state lines. He committed home invasions, robberies, sexual assaults, kidnappings and murders while continually stealing vehicles and changing his identity to avoid capture. Knowles was born in Orlando, Florida, on April 25, 1946. His childhood was unstable, and he spent time in foster homes and reform institutions, including the Florida School for Boys. By the time he reached adulthood, he had accumulated a lengthy criminal record involving burglary, theft and other offenses. He repeatedly entered and left correctional institutions, gaining experience in deception, escape and survival outside the law. In early 1974, while incarcerated in Florida, Knowles corresponded with a California woman named Angela Covic. The relationship became serious enough that marriage was discussed, and Covic helped him obtain legal assistance. After his release, Knowles traveled to California, but Covic ended the relationship after becoming frightened by his behavior. Knowles later claimed that he murdered three people in San Francisco following the rejection, although investigators were unable to verify that allegation.

Escape and the Beginning of the Murder Spree

Knowles returned to Florida and was arrested after a violent confrontation with a bartender. On July 26, 1974, he escaped from custody by picking the lock of his detention cell. That escape marked the beginning of a four-month crime spree extending from Florida to Ohio, Nevada, Texas, Alabama, Connecticut, Virginia and Georgia. Knowles traveled primarily in stolen automobiles. He frequently robbed victims of money, credit cards and personal belongings before taking their vehicles. His methods varied according to opportunity. Some victims were strangled, others were shot or stabbed, and several were bound before being killed. Women were sometimes sexually assaulted. In other instances, Knowles appeared to murder simply because a witness could identify him or because he needed a vehicle. ...

Confirmed Victims: (20)

Alice Heneritta Curtis Age: (65), Date of Death: 1974-07-26

Paul John Knowles - Wikipedia