The Mad Butcher of Kingsbury Run: An Interview with Author James Jessen Badal

Murder Sheet

In the 1930s, some of the poorest areas of Great Depression-era Cleveland, Ohio became the hunting ground for a vile, violent murderer. Unfortunately, despite the fact that this killer butchered around 12 individuals, his identity remains unknown. The Cleveland Torso Killer, also known as the Mad Butcher of Kingsbury Run, is one of history's most gruesome unidentified serial killers.

But James Jessen Badal — an author who has written three comprehensive books on the murders — isn't so sure. According to Badal, famed lawman Eliot Ness — known for leading the Untouchables against Al Capone — may have cracked the killer's identity.

In this episode, we'll discuss the case and the clues with Badal, and hear why he believes Ness may have actually solved the infamous case that so damaged his reputation.

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We strongly recommend Badal's books. In the Wake of the Butcher is all about the Cleveland Torso case. Though Murder Has No Tongue investigates the strange and tragic saga of accused killer Frank Dolezal. Hell's Wasteland examines the work of Peter Merylo and the possibly-linked Pennsylvania murders.

Buy In the Wake of the Butcher: Cleveland's Torso Murders.

Buy Though Murder Has No Tongue: The Lost Victim of Cleveland's Mad Butcher.

Buy Hell's Wasteland: The Pennsylvania Torso Murders.

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