In 1996, Jack Spillman, who is also known as the Werewolf Butcher, confessed to committing horrific murders in Washington state. His crimes included the brutal killings of three people, two of whom were children, one just nine years old. Spillman’s actions were shocking; he not only killed his victims but also raped, dismembered, and drank their blood, adding a level of horror that is difficult to comprehend.
Bob Keppel, the chief investigator for the Washington state attorney general, noted that killers like Spillman, who engage in acts of cannibalism and necrophilia, are extremely rare, making up less than 0.1% of all murderers. This chilling statistic highlights the severity of Spillman’s crimes, which are detailed in Caroline Fraser’s upcoming book, "Murderland: Crime and Bloodlust in the Time of Serial Killers."
Fraser explores a troubling trend in the Pacific Northwest, particularly in Tacoma, where a surprising number of serial killers have emerged. The area has a history of industrial pollution, with factories releasing harmful chemicals into the air. Fraser questions whether this pollution could contribute to violent behavior. She points out that many notorious killers, including Spillman, have lived in or near areas heavily contaminated with lead and other toxins.
For instance, Spillman moved to Tacoma at the age of seven and lived near the ASARCO copper smelter, a significant source of pollution in the region. Similarly, Gary Ridgway, known as the Green River Killer, grew up in the vicinity of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, where he was exposed to jet fuel fumes. Ted Bundy also spent his early years in Tacoma, where the air was thick with industrial particulates.
Fraser’s research suggests that exposure to lead and other pollutants during childhood may be linked to aggression and criminal behavior. She cites studies showing that homicide rates are higher in areas with elevated lead levels. This connection raises questions about the impact of environmental factors on violent crime.
Tacoma’s industrial history has left a lasting mark on its residents. The ASARCO smokestack, which was a prominent feature of the skyline, was finally demolished in 1993, but the effects of pollution linger. Fraser warns that the toxins still present in the environment could contribute to future violence, creating a cycle that is difficult to break.
As the discussion around Spillman’s crimes and the broader issue of environmental impact on behavior continues, it is essential to consider the complex factors that contribute to such extreme acts of violence. The story of Jack Spillman serves as a grim reminder of the potential consequences of neglecting the environment and its effects on human behavior.