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Vampire: The Richard Chase Murders
By the time Richard Trenton Chase graduated high school, everyone knew he was strange. But no one had any idea how bizarre he'd become, or what dark impulses were flowing through his troubled brain. The transformation from the outwardly strange young man to the diabolical killer he ultimately became, was gradual and would not become known until it was too late. First it was the killing of small animals and birds, and the drinking of their blood. However, when these sacrifices failed to satiate his needs, Richard Chase would seek out the highest form of life, and the city of Sacramento, California would react in horror to the hideous murders and mutilations committed by his hands. For those living in the quiet neighborhoods where the murders occurred, it was nothing less than a time of terror until the fiend was captured.
Vampire: The Richard Chase Murders (with 23 photos), is an in-depth look into the life and disturbed mind of a killer, his family, and his many victims, the living as well as the dead. Within these pages you'll discover what it was like for the police, and what a difficult job they had finding a killer they knew wouldn't stop until he was apprehended. It was a race against time, in a series of murders that would stun even the most hardened investigators. It is the story of a city under siege, held captive by the man whose appetite for blood could not be satiated.
Vampire: The Richard Chase Murders (with 23 photos), is an in-depth look into the life and disturbed mind of a killer, his family, and his many victims, the living as well as the dead. Within these pages you'll discover what it was like for the police, and what a difficult job they had finding a killer they knew wouldn't stop until he was apprehended. It was a race against time, in a series of murders that would stun even the most hardened investigators. It is the story of a city under siege, held captive by the man whose appetite for blood could not be satiated.
97 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
21 people are currently reading
664 people want to read
About the author
Kevin M. Sullivan
23 books50 followersA writer of true crime and history, Kevin Sullivan is the bestselling author of THE BUNDY MURDERS and THE TRAIL OF TED BUNDY
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
December 19, 2014
In the 1970s, Richard Chase's murders terrorized Sacramento. They were brutal, gruesome and random. The only thing they had in common was a VERY small geographic region. Mr. Chase was clearly delusional and drank the blood of some of his victims (hence the moniker of 'Vampire'. The biggest question I found while reading the book, is how clearly the definition of mental illness versus LEGAL insanity played out in his case. It was well researched and presented and a very interesting read.
February 24, 2022
WARNING: This book contains graphic scenes. This is not for the faint of heart.
Richard Chase became one of the worst serial killers that the United States has seen. It was not the body count, but the brutality that he inflicted on his victims that put him toward the top. While he had some mental issues, he knew right from wrong, and tried to cover his tracks.
This book was one that is going to stay with me a while. The graphic descriptions of the crime scenes rather got to me, and they usually don't. But these were different. These brutal and horrific crimes are among some of the worst that I have ever read or studied.
Richard Chase was convicted of his crimes, although his lawyer tried to plead insanity. But there were too many conflicting areas for him to be deemed insane. He tried to cover his tracks to and from crime scenes (even parking farther away so as to not have his car recognized).
Overall, this was a great read, but caution on the crime scene descriptions, they will turn even the strongest stomach!
Richard Chase became one of the worst serial killers that the United States has seen. It was not the body count, but the brutality that he inflicted on his victims that put him toward the top. While he had some mental issues, he knew right from wrong, and tried to cover his tracks.
This book was one that is going to stay with me a while. The graphic descriptions of the crime scenes rather got to me, and they usually don't. But these were different. These brutal and horrific crimes are among some of the worst that I have ever read or studied.
Richard Chase was convicted of his crimes, although his lawyer tried to plead insanity. But there were too many conflicting areas for him to be deemed insane. He tried to cover his tracks to and from crime scenes (even parking farther away so as to not have his car recognized).
Overall, this was a great read, but caution on the crime scene descriptions, they will turn even the strongest stomach!
February 7, 2022
The Richard Chase case has always been unique and weird to me for many reasons.
Other then the fact that it is such a weird unique case in of it's self; a sexually sadistic schizophrenic who killed people for their blood because he thought he was a vampire; UFOs and nazis stalking him.
Although I've studied and looked into the rare cases of severely mentally ill killers; Read a book about and watched a documentary about Herbert Mullin, a paranoid schizophrenic who killed 13 people because he thought by murdering people he would save California from a deadly earthquack. Watched a documentary only once on Jared Loughner, watched some of the live reporting when it happened.
I am more into serial killers and mass murderers who have a blood lust. To quote Dexter
"This was about power. You liked the power you had over them. You liked the hunt, the capture. Their terror...feeding you...you deserve to die."
That is far more fascinating and terrifying then anything. A killer who is so severely mentally ill. It's far more easy to say "They did it because of mental illness. If they weren't mentally ill. They wouldn't of done it."
This was more of a crime of mental illness rather then an evil predatory personality.
Then there are some cases; Albert Fish, James Huberty, Adam Lanza, Richard Chase, etc who were clearly very mentally ill, even severely mentally ill, but they're crimes were far more personal psychology then severe mentally ill controlling them like a puppet. Same reason why I am not into terrorist. Killers who do it purely for political reasons.
This is the second book I own about Richard Chase. The first one, written by the main detective. A book I've read 3 times already. A very good book.
This book is written by a true crime author. Who I respect despite this being the first book I've read from him.
Despite the neighborhood where these crimes were committed, Sacramento is often described as a "nice quiet" safe place. But the truth is, not only did they have Richard Chase, Sacramento was being terrorized by Joseph DeAngelo aka The east area rapist/The original night stalker.
Another interesting trivia fact. Molly Ringwald lived in Sacramento at the time. At the same time she was acting on one of my all time favorite shows The facts [fats] of life. She and her father remember The east area rapist terrorizing Sacramento at the time, but her mother said she didn't remember too much about DeAngelo's reign of terror. Instead she referenced Richard Chase saying she remembered there was a "cannibal who was caught near your old elementary school."
This book is very straight forward and straight to the point, and gives more details then I've seen in documentaries and the first book on the case.
It starts right off with the first victim. Ambrose Griffin and I say this with compassion "just an old guy shot dead in his yard unpacking groceries"
Sounds as pointless as it sounds, uh?
But that was before it got even worse, far far worse. I would argue "not more tragic" because it's all tragic, but being shot in the back and falling to the floor in front of your family is far better then your family walking into the room and finding your brutally mutilated dissected body.
The book details Chase's background, childhood, his family, etc. Interviews with them about Chase after the murders. So a few new details. One new detail is this weird oranges to the head. From what I've read it sounds like he put oranges to his head, but in this book it says he sliced them up, wrapped them in a towel, then wrapped the towel around his head. Very different then holding an orange to your head and slightly more bizarre.
Somethings I noticed. The "caught by his mother" killing a cat/dog story. I've heard at least 3 different versions of this story.
1.His mother heard a noise from inside a room. Probably the bathroom or something. Went in to see what was going on and saw him holding a dead cat "Blood was smeared all over" face and chest, etc. Drinking it's blood.
2.Dog, not cat. But pretty much the same story.
3.This book states he killed his mother's dog while out in the porch. Shot it with his handgun and smeared the blood on the back of his neck.
The author of this book also states or implies that this animal killing/torture was a first for Chase. Spawned by his vampire delusions/psychosis. But in the other book and documentaries, it's stated he had a history of animal cruelty. Going back to when he was a child. Not only that, but in the other book the police interviewed his mother at the house and she led them to a bunch of graves. Where Chase killed dogs and cats, stuffed em in boxes and then buried them in a grave he dug for the boxes. His own private grave yard.
The book leaves out other details. Such as when he ran into a former class mate at a local store. The book says he was holding a "orange drink" It was an orange soda.
At pyramid lake, it implies he killed a dog, if not his dog. The authorities found a bucket full of blood and organs. He was found and arrested naked and covered in blood. They did a test and discovered the blood and organs were animal. Never mentions what kind of animal. Apparently the blood was bovine. Meaning he killed a cow, which would make sense since he was seen walking off into the desert with his dog who suddenly disappeared and he's now covered in blood. He wasn't seen going back to his vehicle. Which means at some point he killed a cow, then he took his dog out into the desert to kill it. Killed it and then got arrested. He probably threw it in the lake.
I do like how; when Chase tried to steal a dog near his apartment the author states the dog was saved by it's owner. The author puts it this that, that it didn't become a "victim of Richard Chase". I like the fact that the animals that Chase killed are also referred to as victims, because they were.
The author does a great job detailing David Wallin, the husband of Chase's second victim; Teresa Wallin. Who was shot and killed while taking out the trash in her own home. Dragged into the "master bedroom" where she was butchered and dissected. But the book implies he had a good day off training his replacement. He was a truck driver. I keep up to date on many of my favorite cases. Almost all of my favorite cases and I got a pretty good memory. According to David Wallin, in fairly recent interviews about the murder of his wife, he stated he had just come home from an awful day. The truck somehow got stuck and they had to wait for like 8 hours. They finally get picked up, he goes to a bar to have a drink with his replacement, goes home and finds his wife was murdered. Sees her dead body. Runs off to the neighbors after calling his parents. If I was him, I wouldn't want to be in that house either and good thing he had his neighbors and parents to give him relief and comfort.
The author goes into Chase's psyche evaluation, the search of Chase's apartment. Never mentions the blender or the fact that Chase was mixing soda with the blood to make a smoothie. He never brings up the mother leading investigators to the mass graves of dead animals. The author skims through the trial. Leaves out a lot of context.
We do get interviews with the investigators. Quotes taken from books, taken from a documentary I have a copy of, and probably an interview with the author because they say things like "We didn't have cell phones" so it's a recent interview with one of the detectives. We get EAR referenced of course multiple times. In fact the lead female investigator on the EAR case Detective Daly who made a name for her self in the force; Being a women on the force in the 70's, a very good cop, and a go to for comfort when it came to interacting with victims of rape and abuse. She was involved and could of helped catch Chase, but they left the apartment complex because the manager was away. In fact...the "rookie" cops got to interrogate Chase. Did every trick in the book but felt they were out of their league due to being rookies. So they asked for more experienced officers to interview Chase and one of those officers was Daly.
Lots of extra details and facts are left out of the book, some is contradictory. I recently came across an evidence photo. The book states that an hatchet was found somewhere, on the bed or floor but they found another weapon in the drawer; a dresser. Well according to the photo and I've seen it before [in like 2010, maybe 2012. Maybe 2008] so I know it's an accurate photo, the hatchet was in the dresser. So the author most likely got it backwards.
I appreciated the author putting the facts in perspective. Such as Richard Chase's clear premeditation.
The book of course talks about the discovery of the baby Chase shot and then mutilated to an extreme degree. I like everyone else have a strong emotional reaction, but this time I couldn't help but laugh at the reporters. The author states and I think this is in the other book about the case as well. The cops put a sheet over the crime scene so the camera crew on top of a ajacent building could not get the shot. As the author puts it "denying them the shot they desperately wanted." ie the mutilated body of a dead baby.
I couldn't help but laugh at how absurd that is and I couldn't help but think of the movie Night flier.
Dees confronts the editor: Where's my picture? Where's my gawd damn dead baby?!
Dees complains to the director: Listen Mertin, just because you don't have the balls doesn't mean you get to cut mine off.
Mertin: Morning Richard.
Dees: Do you know what I had to do with that morgue attendant to get that picture?! You have any idea how cold those slabs are?
Mertin: Katherine, this emotionally unstable individual is Richard Dees, our senior reporter.
Once she leaves he asks about it again.
Dees: What about my picture?
Mertin: Dees, we all love your pictures. But in the future, just as a rough guide line. Let's keep the victims over two years old, okay?
I can just imagine the reporters on the roof next to the crime scene. Once the blanket was set up going "F**K! F**K!" Clenching their fists "GAWD DAMN IT!" Getting so damn upset....because the cops denied them the chance to take a photo or film a mutilated dead baby...
Reminds me of all those tourist who got into a car accident while racing over to a crime scene back in the 1900's and 20's....I mean just imagine that. You want to get to a crime scene so damn much you end up crashing your car.
I can understand. I've rubbernecked many times. I lived in a big city with a high amount of car crashes. So I got to see car crashes a lot and I would rubberneck. My mom and I would even park near the scene and watch the whole thing. I even saw an old man climb out of his car [the car had flipped over] and crawl onto the pavement. Took forever for the ambulances to pick him up and take him to the hospital. The entire time I was going "Just take him the hospital! Why is this taking so damn long?!" "I hope the guy's okay." But I'm not so hyped up "I GOT TO SEE THE BODIES! I GOT TO SEE THE WRECK!" that I'm speeding and swerving....to get to a crime scene.
Overall, a decent book. Not bad at all. Some new facts, but a lot of other facts omitted. Facts such as, we get several references that Richard Chase was fascinated by wild west outlaws. According to his mother he liked to pretend he was a wild west outlaw. He had books on the topic, when they tried to take off his gun holster he got angry and asked if he could keep it on him "it makes me feel comfortable."...doesn't mention the fact that apparently Richard Chase according to a psychiatrist [his case is mentioned, footnoted in another book I own about all sorts of cases. A book written by a psychiatrist who personally interviewed Chase among many other killers] believed he was the reincarnation of Billy the kid.
It mentions the fact that Chase accused his mother and sister of poisoning him, just like his mother use to accuse her husband of poisoning her. But it never points out an incident where Chase poisoned their milk carton with soap. His sister or mother sipped a class of milk from the fridge, looked inside it and saw it was tainted with soap.
The author talks about his "suicide" but of course points out something I've suspected for years. We are dealing with a paranoid schizophrenic, someone who is incapable of coherent thinking. I think while it's possible he committed suicide, I think it's more likely he hoarded and swallowed so many pills because according to his psychotic incoherent brain that an overdose of anti depression pills would finally "cure" his problems. After all, he believed blood was gonna cure all his problems. Apparently I am not the only one who thinks that.
The author also mentions that around the time Chase was killing animals and people and drinking their blood, his health was improved...yet according to the other book [by the main detective] and according to photos taken of Chase at the time...Chase was emaciated. The main detective said he and his fellow officers were "shocked" by his thin stature. The photos show him as very thin and malnourished.
Could of been better, but still not bad. A let down, but not badly written. Facts are left out, but other facts are in the book that were left out of other accounts. Such as the fact that he put dog feces into a dead victim's mouth. That fact was left out of the book of the main investigator.
Another fact left out of this book for example would be the fact that before Chase went into the random house to kill the victims, he would stop by their mail box and leave a bullet in it.
I would say I prefer the other book, but this one is still good.
A bit too much of a speed run. But not bad at all. Some new facts. Could of been far better.
I would of liked some new info on the victim's, the families of the victims, etc. We also don't get the complete detailed confessions. Just over a very speed run of the case. That should of been definitive and fleshed out. That is what I wanted and was looking for. So a let down, but not bad. But could of been so much more.
Edit/update: Just saw and am reading an article on Dave Wallin, another new article.
About Dave Wallin and his wife. Very good. Includes photos of Teresa his wife I haven't seen before. About how Dave Wallin dealt with the murder of this wife, etc. Very good article.
Book is kind of pointless actually, because it's very cursory in a lot of parts and doesn't really add anything new to the Richard Chase story. At least not enough.
Other then the fact that it is such a weird unique case in of it's self; a sexually sadistic schizophrenic who killed people for their blood because he thought he was a vampire; UFOs and nazis stalking him.
Although I've studied and looked into the rare cases of severely mentally ill killers; Read a book about and watched a documentary about Herbert Mullin, a paranoid schizophrenic who killed 13 people because he thought by murdering people he would save California from a deadly earthquack. Watched a documentary only once on Jared Loughner, watched some of the live reporting when it happened.
I am more into serial killers and mass murderers who have a blood lust. To quote Dexter
"This was about power. You liked the power you had over them. You liked the hunt, the capture. Their terror...feeding you...you deserve to die."
That is far more fascinating and terrifying then anything. A killer who is so severely mentally ill. It's far more easy to say "They did it because of mental illness. If they weren't mentally ill. They wouldn't of done it."
This was more of a crime of mental illness rather then an evil predatory personality.
Then there are some cases; Albert Fish, James Huberty, Adam Lanza, Richard Chase, etc who were clearly very mentally ill, even severely mentally ill, but they're crimes were far more personal psychology then severe mentally ill controlling them like a puppet. Same reason why I am not into terrorist. Killers who do it purely for political reasons.
This is the second book I own about Richard Chase. The first one, written by the main detective. A book I've read 3 times already. A very good book.
This book is written by a true crime author. Who I respect despite this being the first book I've read from him.
Despite the neighborhood where these crimes were committed, Sacramento is often described as a "nice quiet" safe place. But the truth is, not only did they have Richard Chase, Sacramento was being terrorized by Joseph DeAngelo aka The east area rapist/The original night stalker.
Another interesting trivia fact. Molly Ringwald lived in Sacramento at the time. At the same time she was acting on one of my all time favorite shows The facts [fats] of life. She and her father remember The east area rapist terrorizing Sacramento at the time, but her mother said she didn't remember too much about DeAngelo's reign of terror. Instead she referenced Richard Chase saying she remembered there was a "cannibal who was caught near your old elementary school."
This book is very straight forward and straight to the point, and gives more details then I've seen in documentaries and the first book on the case.
It starts right off with the first victim. Ambrose Griffin and I say this with compassion "just an old guy shot dead in his yard unpacking groceries"
Sounds as pointless as it sounds, uh?
But that was before it got even worse, far far worse. I would argue "not more tragic" because it's all tragic, but being shot in the back and falling to the floor in front of your family is far better then your family walking into the room and finding your brutally mutilated dissected body.
The book details Chase's background, childhood, his family, etc. Interviews with them about Chase after the murders. So a few new details. One new detail is this weird oranges to the head. From what I've read it sounds like he put oranges to his head, but in this book it says he sliced them up, wrapped them in a towel, then wrapped the towel around his head. Very different then holding an orange to your head and slightly more bizarre.
Somethings I noticed. The "caught by his mother" killing a cat/dog story. I've heard at least 3 different versions of this story.
1.His mother heard a noise from inside a room. Probably the bathroom or something. Went in to see what was going on and saw him holding a dead cat "Blood was smeared all over" face and chest, etc. Drinking it's blood.
2.Dog, not cat. But pretty much the same story.
3.This book states he killed his mother's dog while out in the porch. Shot it with his handgun and smeared the blood on the back of his neck.
The author of this book also states or implies that this animal killing/torture was a first for Chase. Spawned by his vampire delusions/psychosis. But in the other book and documentaries, it's stated he had a history of animal cruelty. Going back to when he was a child. Not only that, but in the other book the police interviewed his mother at the house and she led them to a bunch of graves. Where Chase killed dogs and cats, stuffed em in boxes and then buried them in a grave he dug for the boxes. His own private grave yard.
The book leaves out other details. Such as when he ran into a former class mate at a local store. The book says he was holding a "orange drink" It was an orange soda.
At pyramid lake, it implies he killed a dog, if not his dog. The authorities found a bucket full of blood and organs. He was found and arrested naked and covered in blood. They did a test and discovered the blood and organs were animal. Never mentions what kind of animal. Apparently the blood was bovine. Meaning he killed a cow, which would make sense since he was seen walking off into the desert with his dog who suddenly disappeared and he's now covered in blood. He wasn't seen going back to his vehicle. Which means at some point he killed a cow, then he took his dog out into the desert to kill it. Killed it and then got arrested. He probably threw it in the lake.
I do like how; when Chase tried to steal a dog near his apartment the author states the dog was saved by it's owner. The author puts it this that, that it didn't become a "victim of Richard Chase". I like the fact that the animals that Chase killed are also referred to as victims, because they were.
The author does a great job detailing David Wallin, the husband of Chase's second victim; Teresa Wallin. Who was shot and killed while taking out the trash in her own home. Dragged into the "master bedroom" where she was butchered and dissected. But the book implies he had a good day off training his replacement. He was a truck driver. I keep up to date on many of my favorite cases. Almost all of my favorite cases and I got a pretty good memory. According to David Wallin, in fairly recent interviews about the murder of his wife, he stated he had just come home from an awful day. The truck somehow got stuck and they had to wait for like 8 hours. They finally get picked up, he goes to a bar to have a drink with his replacement, goes home and finds his wife was murdered. Sees her dead body. Runs off to the neighbors after calling his parents. If I was him, I wouldn't want to be in that house either and good thing he had his neighbors and parents to give him relief and comfort.
The author goes into Chase's psyche evaluation, the search of Chase's apartment. Never mentions the blender or the fact that Chase was mixing soda with the blood to make a smoothie. He never brings up the mother leading investigators to the mass graves of dead animals. The author skims through the trial. Leaves out a lot of context.
We do get interviews with the investigators. Quotes taken from books, taken from a documentary I have a copy of, and probably an interview with the author because they say things like "We didn't have cell phones" so it's a recent interview with one of the detectives. We get EAR referenced of course multiple times. In fact the lead female investigator on the EAR case Detective Daly who made a name for her self in the force; Being a women on the force in the 70's, a very good cop, and a go to for comfort when it came to interacting with victims of rape and abuse. She was involved and could of helped catch Chase, but they left the apartment complex because the manager was away. In fact...the "rookie" cops got to interrogate Chase. Did every trick in the book but felt they were out of their league due to being rookies. So they asked for more experienced officers to interview Chase and one of those officers was Daly.
Lots of extra details and facts are left out of the book, some is contradictory. I recently came across an evidence photo. The book states that an hatchet was found somewhere, on the bed or floor but they found another weapon in the drawer; a dresser. Well according to the photo and I've seen it before [in like 2010, maybe 2012. Maybe 2008] so I know it's an accurate photo, the hatchet was in the dresser. So the author most likely got it backwards.
I appreciated the author putting the facts in perspective. Such as Richard Chase's clear premeditation.
The book of course talks about the discovery of the baby Chase shot and then mutilated to an extreme degree. I like everyone else have a strong emotional reaction, but this time I couldn't help but laugh at the reporters. The author states and I think this is in the other book about the case as well. The cops put a sheet over the crime scene so the camera crew on top of a ajacent building could not get the shot. As the author puts it "denying them the shot they desperately wanted." ie the mutilated body of a dead baby.
I couldn't help but laugh at how absurd that is and I couldn't help but think of the movie Night flier.
Dees confronts the editor: Where's my picture? Where's my gawd damn dead baby?!
Dees complains to the director: Listen Mertin, just because you don't have the balls doesn't mean you get to cut mine off.
Mertin: Morning Richard.
Dees: Do you know what I had to do with that morgue attendant to get that picture?! You have any idea how cold those slabs are?
Mertin: Katherine, this emotionally unstable individual is Richard Dees, our senior reporter.
Once she leaves he asks about it again.
Dees: What about my picture?
Mertin: Dees, we all love your pictures. But in the future, just as a rough guide line. Let's keep the victims over two years old, okay?
I can just imagine the reporters on the roof next to the crime scene. Once the blanket was set up going "F**K! F**K!" Clenching their fists "GAWD DAMN IT!" Getting so damn upset....because the cops denied them the chance to take a photo or film a mutilated dead baby...
Reminds me of all those tourist who got into a car accident while racing over to a crime scene back in the 1900's and 20's....I mean just imagine that. You want to get to a crime scene so damn much you end up crashing your car.
I can understand. I've rubbernecked many times. I lived in a big city with a high amount of car crashes. So I got to see car crashes a lot and I would rubberneck. My mom and I would even park near the scene and watch the whole thing. I even saw an old man climb out of his car [the car had flipped over] and crawl onto the pavement. Took forever for the ambulances to pick him up and take him to the hospital. The entire time I was going "Just take him the hospital! Why is this taking so damn long?!" "I hope the guy's okay." But I'm not so hyped up "I GOT TO SEE THE BODIES! I GOT TO SEE THE WRECK!" that I'm speeding and swerving....to get to a crime scene.
Overall, a decent book. Not bad at all. Some new facts, but a lot of other facts omitted. Facts such as, we get several references that Richard Chase was fascinated by wild west outlaws. According to his mother he liked to pretend he was a wild west outlaw. He had books on the topic, when they tried to take off his gun holster he got angry and asked if he could keep it on him "it makes me feel comfortable."...doesn't mention the fact that apparently Richard Chase according to a psychiatrist [his case is mentioned, footnoted in another book I own about all sorts of cases. A book written by a psychiatrist who personally interviewed Chase among many other killers] believed he was the reincarnation of Billy the kid.
It mentions the fact that Chase accused his mother and sister of poisoning him, just like his mother use to accuse her husband of poisoning her. But it never points out an incident where Chase poisoned their milk carton with soap. His sister or mother sipped a class of milk from the fridge, looked inside it and saw it was tainted with soap.
The author talks about his "suicide" but of course points out something I've suspected for years. We are dealing with a paranoid schizophrenic, someone who is incapable of coherent thinking. I think while it's possible he committed suicide, I think it's more likely he hoarded and swallowed so many pills because according to his psychotic incoherent brain that an overdose of anti depression pills would finally "cure" his problems. After all, he believed blood was gonna cure all his problems. Apparently I am not the only one who thinks that.
The author also mentions that around the time Chase was killing animals and people and drinking their blood, his health was improved...yet according to the other book [by the main detective] and according to photos taken of Chase at the time...Chase was emaciated. The main detective said he and his fellow officers were "shocked" by his thin stature. The photos show him as very thin and malnourished.
Could of been better, but still not bad. A let down, but not badly written. Facts are left out, but other facts are in the book that were left out of other accounts. Such as the fact that he put dog feces into a dead victim's mouth. That fact was left out of the book of the main investigator.
Another fact left out of this book for example would be the fact that before Chase went into the random house to kill the victims, he would stop by their mail box and leave a bullet in it.
I would say I prefer the other book, but this one is still good.
A bit too much of a speed run. But not bad at all. Some new facts. Could of been far better.
I would of liked some new info on the victim's, the families of the victims, etc. We also don't get the complete detailed confessions. Just over a very speed run of the case. That should of been definitive and fleshed out. That is what I wanted and was looking for. So a let down, but not bad. But could of been so much more.
Edit/update: Just saw and am reading an article on Dave Wallin, another new article.
About Dave Wallin and his wife. Very good. Includes photos of Teresa his wife I haven't seen before. About how Dave Wallin dealt with the murder of this wife, etc. Very good article.
Book is kind of pointless actually, because it's very cursory in a lot of parts and doesn't really add anything new to the Richard Chase story. At least not enough.
September 11, 2018
This true crime book was difficult for me to read, since it made me feel physically sick due to the graphic detail of the murders committed by "the vampire of Sacramento" Richard Trenton Chase.
I will not mention the details of tbe murders due to the disturbing and graphic and disgusting detail of what he did, none of the victims deserved to be killed in the way they were murdered especially the 22 month old baby, it made me feel sick reading about it.
Richard Trenton Chase was a paranoid schizophrenic but sane during the murders he committed, he was a vampire, cannibal, necrophile and killed 6 people including a 22 month old male baby, a pregnant woman, rabbits, a cat that was his pet, dogs that he shot, mutilated and consumed the flesh and blood due to his delusional beliefs that he needed to "consume blood to repair his body" because he believed that he was/had been "poisoned with iodine or mercury" He purchased rabbits and drank their blood, and attempted to inject himself with their blood which lead to him being hospitalised for a few days where he was diagnosed as a paranoid schizophrenic due to his behaviour and paranoid beliefs. He purchased dogs, hung them up, cut their organs out of the body and partially ate them and drank their blood. He was "eating dog viscera raw"
He used a .22 calibre Luger pistol and knives during the murders and kidnapped the baby after murdering his family, he shot the baby in the head, consumed part of his brain matter, mutilated his body and decapitated him because "cause...I needed something to eat" After he murdered a victim he would keep a copy of the newspaper asa trophy to re-live the crime by reading about it.
He was similar in some ways to Jeffrey Dahmer both seem like they were loners wrapped up in their deluional fantasy world that only existed in their minds. All the victims were not connected to eachother except the small geographical area whefe they lived and were murdered was very close to where Richard Trenton Chase was living at the time of the murders.
The murders occured within walking or driving distance from his house, where he was living at the time of the murders. From a young age he was developing a extremely violent and predatory nature towards animals or people, so even if he wasn't a risk to others he would have been a risk to himself. He cut the paw of his pet dog andwould frequently have attempt to crush the jaw of the dog by tightly griping it around it's jaw almost to the point of broking it's jaw. He believed his family was trying to poison him or control his mind, he also had conversations with people that were not real or no one else saw. His mother thought it was a good idea to slowly stop giving him his medication till eventually he wasn't taking his medication and his paranoia became a problem again.
If he continued taking his medication he would have been fine, and possibly none of the deaths of any of the animals or people he killed would or happened, it could have been avoided and lives would have been saved.
He was a disorganised killer that left fingerprints or evidence of his presence at the crime scenes, due to the violent, graphic way he killed his victims.
People were known to fire guns in a creek, near or around the area of some of the crimes and the gunshots were heard by multiple people in the area at various times of the night.
When Richard was living with his family he behaviour become very bizarre and they all thought that something was off about him, that something was wrong despite acting or appearing normal most of the time, he was known to talk to himself however. "Richard, you're a good boy aren't you? Yes you're a good boy" He would do a handstand because he wanted the blood in his body to flow back to his head and would wrap a towel with oranges slices on it around his head. He was u able to keep a steady job due to not doing his job properly and inadequate in terms of dating due to a inability to perform sexually with women, which is one of the reasons he might of hated women and murdered them due to humiliation and rejection. The closer he came to murder the better he looked in terms of apoareance or deameanor. He was aware of social condemnation in social for his actions.
He would target homes that didn't have a car outside, but he would knock first to see if anyone was at home so no one would die. During the murders he was considered sane due to being aware of his actions being wrong, he was aware of what was right or wrong so wasn't able to claim "temporary insanity" as a way to get a more lenient sentence he knew what he did was wrong and excited about reading about his crimes in the newspaper after he committed them, he liked the attention.
Eventually he was caught due to eyewitness testimonies and the the daughter of the one of the investigators being approached by Richard in a supermarket, that felt uncomfortable being around him and talking to him. All the evidence pointed to Richard Trenton Chase and he was finally brought in to be questioned, then brought to trail in a court and convicted of 6 counts of murder in the first degree and sentenced to death in the gas chamber. He decided to killed himself to cure whatever he believed ailed him his whole life that he never re eived sufficient help for because he was delusional andit was all in his head. He overdosed on Sinequan (a medication for depression) while in prison.
I will not mention the details of tbe murders due to the disturbing and graphic and disgusting detail of what he did, none of the victims deserved to be killed in the way they were murdered especially the 22 month old baby, it made me feel sick reading about it.
Richard Trenton Chase was a paranoid schizophrenic but sane during the murders he committed, he was a vampire, cannibal, necrophile and killed 6 people including a 22 month old male baby, a pregnant woman, rabbits, a cat that was his pet, dogs that he shot, mutilated and consumed the flesh and blood due to his delusional beliefs that he needed to "consume blood to repair his body" because he believed that he was/had been "poisoned with iodine or mercury" He purchased rabbits and drank their blood, and attempted to inject himself with their blood which lead to him being hospitalised for a few days where he was diagnosed as a paranoid schizophrenic due to his behaviour and paranoid beliefs. He purchased dogs, hung them up, cut their organs out of the body and partially ate them and drank their blood. He was "eating dog viscera raw"
He used a .22 calibre Luger pistol and knives during the murders and kidnapped the baby after murdering his family, he shot the baby in the head, consumed part of his brain matter, mutilated his body and decapitated him because "cause...I needed something to eat" After he murdered a victim he would keep a copy of the newspaper asa trophy to re-live the crime by reading about it.
He was similar in some ways to Jeffrey Dahmer both seem like they were loners wrapped up in their deluional fantasy world that only existed in their minds. All the victims were not connected to eachother except the small geographical area whefe they lived and were murdered was very close to where Richard Trenton Chase was living at the time of the murders.
The murders occured within walking or driving distance from his house, where he was living at the time of the murders. From a young age he was developing a extremely violent and predatory nature towards animals or people, so even if he wasn't a risk to others he would have been a risk to himself. He cut the paw of his pet dog andwould frequently have attempt to crush the jaw of the dog by tightly griping it around it's jaw almost to the point of broking it's jaw. He believed his family was trying to poison him or control his mind, he also had conversations with people that were not real or no one else saw. His mother thought it was a good idea to slowly stop giving him his medication till eventually he wasn't taking his medication and his paranoia became a problem again.
If he continued taking his medication he would have been fine, and possibly none of the deaths of any of the animals or people he killed would or happened, it could have been avoided and lives would have been saved.
He was a disorganised killer that left fingerprints or evidence of his presence at the crime scenes, due to the violent, graphic way he killed his victims.
People were known to fire guns in a creek, near or around the area of some of the crimes and the gunshots were heard by multiple people in the area at various times of the night.
When Richard was living with his family he behaviour become very bizarre and they all thought that something was off about him, that something was wrong despite acting or appearing normal most of the time, he was known to talk to himself however. "Richard, you're a good boy aren't you? Yes you're a good boy" He would do a handstand because he wanted the blood in his body to flow back to his head and would wrap a towel with oranges slices on it around his head. He was u able to keep a steady job due to not doing his job properly and inadequate in terms of dating due to a inability to perform sexually with women, which is one of the reasons he might of hated women and murdered them due to humiliation and rejection. The closer he came to murder the better he looked in terms of apoareance or deameanor. He was aware of social condemnation in social for his actions.
He would target homes that didn't have a car outside, but he would knock first to see if anyone was at home so no one would die. During the murders he was considered sane due to being aware of his actions being wrong, he was aware of what was right or wrong so wasn't able to claim "temporary insanity" as a way to get a more lenient sentence he knew what he did was wrong and excited about reading about his crimes in the newspaper after he committed them, he liked the attention.
Eventually he was caught due to eyewitness testimonies and the the daughter of the one of the investigators being approached by Richard in a supermarket, that felt uncomfortable being around him and talking to him. All the evidence pointed to Richard Trenton Chase and he was finally brought in to be questioned, then brought to trail in a court and convicted of 6 counts of murder in the first degree and sentenced to death in the gas chamber. He decided to killed himself to cure whatever he believed ailed him his whole life that he never re eived sufficient help for because he was delusional andit was all in his head. He overdosed on Sinequan (a medication for depression) while in prison.
November 12, 2017
Short and graphic read.
July 18, 2015
I knew very little about this case before reading the book. I read a lot of true crime but some cases make me sick and this one I knew enough about to make me think I didn't want the depth of a book to tell me more. However, I am very glad to have read it. Mr. Sullivan has done an excellent job with a very sensitive subject matter. Some reviews have called the book graphic, or, specifically, the writing graphic, but that's not exactly the situation and especially why I appreciated the author's tact. Yes, the data is graphic but 1) there are no crime scene photos and 2) the graphic details are simply listed information taken directly from police or court documents. The author hasn't taken any creative license in that area. Sullivan has done an exceptional job of providing direct quotes from various sources and weaving them together with his own sparse narrative that concentrates heavily on the victims, both dead and living. Sullivan also makes his main discussion throughout the text to be the difference between mental insanity and legal insanity. There is never any question that Richard Chase was mentally insane, but the question his trial brought to the surface was that a person can be insane and legally culpable at the same time. An absolutely horrendous case for everyone involved: first and foremost the victims and their families, but also those involved in the investigation, Chase's own family and even Chase himself, that he wasn't locked up in a psychiatric ward, when they first had him and he, himself, knew he was sick, years before he killed anyone. The book is short but thorough; anything longer than this would have been sensationalism. Great read!
January 11, 2021
This book is short, to the point, well written, and now imprinted on my brain.
The content is, at times, quite graphic, but not in gratuitous way for shock value. Information is taken from police reports and witnesses, and told in a straightforward manner. It's just pretty much impossible to avoid graphic details when talking about Richard Chase.
Kevin Pierce does a fantastic job narrating the audiobook. For me, his deep, gravelly voice is perfectly suited to true crime. He uses the right amount of inflection to give a conversational feel, while maintaining the seriousness the subject matter requires.
*I received a free download from WildBlue Press.*
The content is, at times, quite graphic, but not in gratuitous way for shock value. Information is taken from police reports and witnesses, and told in a straightforward manner. It's just pretty much impossible to avoid graphic details when talking about Richard Chase.
Kevin Pierce does a fantastic job narrating the audiobook. For me, his deep, gravelly voice is perfectly suited to true crime. He uses the right amount of inflection to give a conversational feel, while maintaining the seriousness the subject matter requires.
*I received a free download from WildBlue Press.*
May 4, 2015
This was a pager turner. I am definitely going to keep this author on my radar! I highly recommend this true crime book.
June 1, 2021
Very short but concise accounting of Richard Chase’s crimes
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April 17, 2025Book Review: Vampire: The Richard Chase Murders by Kevin M. Sullivan
Kevin M. Sullivan’s Vampire: The Richard Chase Murders presents a harrowing exploration of one of the most chilling serial killers in American history. Often referred to as the “Vampire of Sacramento,” Richard Chase terrorized the Sacramento area in the late 1970s with a series of gruesome murders characterized by vampiric themes of blood-drinking and necrophilia. This book provides a comprehensive account of Chase’s life, crimes, and the psychological factors that contributed to his horrific actions, making it a significant contribution to the field of true crime literature.
Overview and Structure
Sullivan organizes the book into distinct sections that chart Chase’s trajectory from a troubled childhood to becoming an infamous murderer. The narrative begins with an exploration of Chase’s early life, including his dysfunctional family background, mental health struggles, and the onset of his violent tendencies. Sullivan meticulously details each of Chase’s crimes, providing chronological accounts that create a chilling atmosphere and heighten suspense.
The structure is effective, with each chapter focusing on different aspects of Chase’s life and the ensuing investigations. Sullivan intersperses relevant psychological analysis and societal context, enriching the narrative and providing readers with a deeper understanding of the factors that fueled Chase’s murderous impulses.
Thematic Exploration
Central to Vampire is the theme of madness and its manifestations in extreme violence. Sullivan delves into Chase’s psychiatric evaluations and diagnoses, highlighting his severe mental illness, including schizophrenia. The book illustrates how Chase’s delusions and warped perceptions of reality led him to commit heinous acts, including drinking the blood of his victims, which he believed would provide him with power and sustain his life.
Sullivan also examines societal perceptions of mental illness and violent crime, pointing out how Chase’s case reflects broader issues in mental health care and the criminal justice system. By situating Chase within a socio-cultural context, the author emphasizes the importance of understanding the intersection between mental health and criminal behavior, challenging readers to confront their assumptions about violence and the mentally ill.
Research and Methodological Rigor
Sullivan’s research is extensive and well-documented, incorporating a variety of sources, including police reports, court documents, and psychological evaluations. His use of primary sources lends credibility to the narrative and allows readers to engage with the material on a deeper level. Additionally, Sullivan’s detailed descriptions of the investigative process provide insight into law enforcement’s efforts to apprehend Chase, highlighting the challenges faced by detectives in understanding a mind as disturbed as his.
Characterization and Writing Style
The characterization of Richard Chase is one of the book’s strengths. Sullivan presents a multifaceted portrayal of Chase, blending factual information with psychological insights that evoke a sense of both horror and empathy. This nuanced depiction invites readers to grapple with the complexities of Chase’s character, rather than viewing him merely as a monster.
Sullivan’s writing style is accessible without sacrificing academic rigor. His vivid descriptions and compelling narratives draw readers in, making the book not only informative but also engaging. The author’s ability to balance factual reporting with a narrative approach enhances the reading experience, allowing for a dramatic yet respectful treatment of a difficult subject.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vampire: The Richard Chase Murders by Kevin M. Sullivan is a meticulously researched and compelling examination of a notorious figure in true crime history. Through its exploration of psychological, social, and situational factors contributing to Chase’s actions, Sullivan offers readers a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding extreme violence and mental illness. This book is highly recommended for scholars, students, and true crime enthusiasts seeking to engage with an unsettling yet important narrative that challenges preconceived notions about serial killers and the nature of evil. Sullivan’s work not only documents the atrocities committed by Richard Chase but also serves as a poignant reflection on the human condition and the societal failures that can lead to such tragedies.
Kevin M. Sullivan’s Vampire: The Richard Chase Murders presents a harrowing exploration of one of the most chilling serial killers in American history. Often referred to as the “Vampire of Sacramento,” Richard Chase terrorized the Sacramento area in the late 1970s with a series of gruesome murders characterized by vampiric themes of blood-drinking and necrophilia. This book provides a comprehensive account of Chase’s life, crimes, and the psychological factors that contributed to his horrific actions, making it a significant contribution to the field of true crime literature.
Overview and Structure
Sullivan organizes the book into distinct sections that chart Chase’s trajectory from a troubled childhood to becoming an infamous murderer. The narrative begins with an exploration of Chase’s early life, including his dysfunctional family background, mental health struggles, and the onset of his violent tendencies. Sullivan meticulously details each of Chase’s crimes, providing chronological accounts that create a chilling atmosphere and heighten suspense.
The structure is effective, with each chapter focusing on different aspects of Chase’s life and the ensuing investigations. Sullivan intersperses relevant psychological analysis and societal context, enriching the narrative and providing readers with a deeper understanding of the factors that fueled Chase’s murderous impulses.
Thematic Exploration
Central to Vampire is the theme of madness and its manifestations in extreme violence. Sullivan delves into Chase’s psychiatric evaluations and diagnoses, highlighting his severe mental illness, including schizophrenia. The book illustrates how Chase’s delusions and warped perceptions of reality led him to commit heinous acts, including drinking the blood of his victims, which he believed would provide him with power and sustain his life.
Sullivan also examines societal perceptions of mental illness and violent crime, pointing out how Chase’s case reflects broader issues in mental health care and the criminal justice system. By situating Chase within a socio-cultural context, the author emphasizes the importance of understanding the intersection between mental health and criminal behavior, challenging readers to confront their assumptions about violence and the mentally ill.
Research and Methodological Rigor
Sullivan’s research is extensive and well-documented, incorporating a variety of sources, including police reports, court documents, and psychological evaluations. His use of primary sources lends credibility to the narrative and allows readers to engage with the material on a deeper level. Additionally, Sullivan’s detailed descriptions of the investigative process provide insight into law enforcement’s efforts to apprehend Chase, highlighting the challenges faced by detectives in understanding a mind as disturbed as his.
Characterization and Writing Style
The characterization of Richard Chase is one of the book’s strengths. Sullivan presents a multifaceted portrayal of Chase, blending factual information with psychological insights that evoke a sense of both horror and empathy. This nuanced depiction invites readers to grapple with the complexities of Chase’s character, rather than viewing him merely as a monster.
Sullivan’s writing style is accessible without sacrificing academic rigor. His vivid descriptions and compelling narratives draw readers in, making the book not only informative but also engaging. The author’s ability to balance factual reporting with a narrative approach enhances the reading experience, allowing for a dramatic yet respectful treatment of a difficult subject.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vampire: The Richard Chase Murders by Kevin M. Sullivan is a meticulously researched and compelling examination of a notorious figure in true crime history. Through its exploration of psychological, social, and situational factors contributing to Chase’s actions, Sullivan offers readers a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding extreme violence and mental illness. This book is highly recommended for scholars, students, and true crime enthusiasts seeking to engage with an unsettling yet important narrative that challenges preconceived notions about serial killers and the nature of evil. Sullivan’s work not only documents the atrocities committed by Richard Chase but also serves as a poignant reflection on the human condition and the societal failures that can lead to such tragedies.
April 19, 2019
Why did I read this? I've read about Chase's crimes before. He was batshit crazy and off his meds. He was also on mind altering drugs.
The author moralizes like mad here. Feeling sorry for the victims and horrified about the crimes that Chase brought to their doors can co-exist with understanding that mental illness stole all of their lives. It doesn't make him any less horrifying or bizarre. It doesn't shift the blame. It just puts his terrible crimes in a different category. Calling him evil and diabolical isn't appropriate. His crimes were evil for sure, but using diabolical to describe Chase is way off the mark. He was frenzied, impulsive and not the brightest crayon in the box.
So yeah, describing Chase as some kind of evil genius and diabolical is dumb. He was no Hannibal Lecter. Dude barely made it through High School because the crazy was setting in.
I'm beginning to think I have to stop reading true crime books. I am picking up repeat cases now and books by inferior authors.
Who am I kidding? It's summer. I'll be reading true crime all over the place.
The author moralizes like mad here. Feeling sorry for the victims and horrified about the crimes that Chase brought to their doors can co-exist with understanding that mental illness stole all of their lives. It doesn't make him any less horrifying or bizarre. It doesn't shift the blame. It just puts his terrible crimes in a different category. Calling him evil and diabolical isn't appropriate. His crimes were evil for sure, but using diabolical to describe Chase is way off the mark. He was frenzied, impulsive and not the brightest crayon in the box.
So yeah, describing Chase as some kind of evil genius and diabolical is dumb. He was no Hannibal Lecter. Dude barely made it through High School because the crazy was setting in.
I'm beginning to think I have to stop reading true crime books. I am picking up repeat cases now and books by inferior authors.
Who am I kidding? It's summer. I'll be reading true crime all over the place.
March 16, 2018
A short but interesting gruesome story about the Vampire of Sacramento, Richard Chase. I have read a bit about him in another book and his case definitely caught my attention. It's obvious that Richard Chase had some serious mental illness but he was legaly sane. The book is well written and it seems that the author knows what he is writing about. It suprises me that he is not more "famous" or should I say infamous because his crimes are wild.
January 7, 2024
Factual and stays largely away from the overt moralizing that some true crime authors can’t resist, and that I loathe. It’s too short, though, so I have to think a lot’s been skipped over. Chase’s trial is barely noted.
September 10, 2017
This was a short story, AT BEST. This was not a great story, there was no real attempt at research.
January 31, 2019
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June 14, 2023
The case was very interesting (and one of the most horrifying ones I have read). Quick read. The writing left a bit to be desired,
April 23, 2025
Well written overview of this spectacularly disturbing case. Images are included but could be higher quality.
I'm surprised this isn't a better known case.
I'm surprised this isn't a better known case.
January 13, 2015
I received this book to give an honest review.
Whoa is all I can literally say about this. This is a crazy true story on a man named Richard Chase. He literally killed a few people and drank their blood on top of that started eating them. Like who in their right mind would do that? Someone crazy is all I have to say.
Richard would seem to be just a normal person normally. But if you looked into his life you knew something was wrong. When someone is paranoid, staying up all hours of the night, knocking holes in the wall something is wrong. If it is not drugs then it is something mental. This story is filled with information on how it all seemed to start, the background of Richard, how detectives were able to capture him before he could go on and kill more people. It also shows us how mental illness was described by doctors in this case. I honestly think that he had a mental illness now what it is I don't know exactly.
There are pictures within the book so you really get a feel as to where things took place and what things looked like back in the day. It is crazy weird. If you like true crime stories then I say get this one. Even though it is gory when told just imagine what those that put him behind bars saw and think. The author did good on his research and knew just how to write it all to where it sounds good when told.
Whoa is all I can literally say about this. This is a crazy true story on a man named Richard Chase. He literally killed a few people and drank their blood on top of that started eating them. Like who in their right mind would do that? Someone crazy is all I have to say.
Richard would seem to be just a normal person normally. But if you looked into his life you knew something was wrong. When someone is paranoid, staying up all hours of the night, knocking holes in the wall something is wrong. If it is not drugs then it is something mental. This story is filled with information on how it all seemed to start, the background of Richard, how detectives were able to capture him before he could go on and kill more people. It also shows us how mental illness was described by doctors in this case. I honestly think that he had a mental illness now what it is I don't know exactly.
There are pictures within the book so you really get a feel as to where things took place and what things looked like back in the day. It is crazy weird. If you like true crime stories then I say get this one. Even though it is gory when told just imagine what those that put him behind bars saw and think. The author did good on his research and knew just how to write it all to where it sounds good when told.
June 15, 2015
Mentally deranged, sadistic, a bloodsucker and a cannibal, this diabolical killer held the city of Sacramento in fear during his spree in the late 70's. Fortunately, his reign of terror was relatively short lived. Unfortunately, the savage cruelty he showed his innocent victims is something I don't imagine anyone from that area will ever forget.
I think the author did a fantastic job of pulling this story together. Although only 109 pages, you finish the book feeling you know everything you need to know about the tragedy. Its very concise and not a word is wasted. There's lots of background information about him and his family dynamic that may or may not have impacted his mental condition, excerpts from arresting officers, exact wording from the actual case files, and even more. Every true crime fan's dream read.
I'm most impressed and absolutely will be reading more by this author.
I think the author did a fantastic job of pulling this story together. Although only 109 pages, you finish the book feeling you know everything you need to know about the tragedy. Its very concise and not a word is wasted. There's lots of background information about him and his family dynamic that may or may not have impacted his mental condition, excerpts from arresting officers, exact wording from the actual case files, and even more. Every true crime fan's dream read.
I'm most impressed and absolutely will be reading more by this author.
October 23, 2016
This was a great short read.
The research and information were excellent.
You don't get so much information about the victims, but you get a really good view of what was going on with Richard Chase, the investigation, the medical analysis, and the trial.
Kevin Sullivan is a good read for the avid true crime reader. Please be advised some of his work is described graphically. Beyond that I would recommend this book to most individuals who enjoy this genre. Word to the wise, individuals who enjoy works that include a lot of detail and connection to the victims and families like the works of Ann Rule may be disappointed. I usually do prefer to get a connection, but even without one in a short like this you don't expect it.
The research and information were excellent.
You don't get so much information about the victims, but you get a really good view of what was going on with Richard Chase, the investigation, the medical analysis, and the trial.
Kevin Sullivan is a good read for the avid true crime reader. Please be advised some of his work is described graphically. Beyond that I would recommend this book to most individuals who enjoy this genre. Word to the wise, individuals who enjoy works that include a lot of detail and connection to the victims and families like the works of Ann Rule may be disappointed. I usually do prefer to get a connection, but even without one in a short like this you don't expect it.
August 16, 2021
My mom bought this book for me during my freshman year for a forensics class I was taking. We had to write papers on any serial killer we wanted, and I wanted to find one that not a lot of people knew by name, one that would completely disgust me. That serial killer was Richard Chase. My teacher even said that my paper was one of the most disturbing she'd read, and I felt physically sick while researching him.
This book was a huge help during that project. It was short, quick, and to the point. I decided to reread it this year after finding it on my shelf hidden behind some newer books. This man still makes me feel sick to my stomach, and reading the book felt like the first time I read it.
This book was a huge help during that project. It was short, quick, and to the point. I decided to reread it this year after finding it on my shelf hidden behind some newer books. This man still makes me feel sick to my stomach, and reading the book felt like the first time I read it.
August 29, 2012
A short but very thorough account of Richard Chase's life and crimes. The writing is extremely graphic, but that's to be expected given the nature of the murders Chase committed. I thought the author did a good job of showing how, batshit crazy though Chase may have been, he was not insane under the legal standard. (Which, to me, speaks volumes about our need to broaden our application of insanity, but that's neither here nor there.) Anyone who wants to learn about this particularly gruesome serial slayer could not go wrong with his book.
February 9, 2015
This is a true crime story for the ages.
What we have here is a story that Morgan, Garcia , Rossi and the gang of Criminal Minds would trickle with jest.
It is gruesome and chilling hole on to your hats be sure re e your doors are looked before you set down to read this one.
What we have here is a story that Morgan, Garcia , Rossi and the gang of Criminal Minds would trickle with jest.
It is gruesome and chilling hole on to your hats be sure re e your doors are looked before you set down to read this one.
October 22, 2015
An Intriguing Case
I can't say I had any empathy for Richard Chase, only his family who had to endure his psychotic behavior and the innocent people he preyed upon. Suicide was too good for him.
I can't say I had any empathy for Richard Chase, only his family who had to endure his psychotic behavior and the innocent people he preyed upon. Suicide was too good for him.
August 20, 2021
Interesting
read. I have read a book prior to this, same subject, which presented more of Chase's younger years and later crimes. This perspective was more from the victim/law side. Still good, but very short book.
read. I have read a book prior to this, same subject, which presented more of Chase's younger years and later crimes. This perspective was more from the victim/law side. Still good, but very short book.
March 6, 2014
Read this as research for a Criminal Justice/Psychology paper on serial killers. Sure did help and was definitely interesting, but seriously disturbing!!
June 3, 2016
Disturbing. A nice well rounded review on the facts of the case using news papers and information gathered about the family.
June 10, 2016
This was a good read. It was a quick and easy read and the author did a great job in telling the story of this sick twisted human being....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2016
Vampire The Richard Chase Murders
This was a good read. It was a quick and easy read and the author did a great job in telling the story of this sick twisted human being....
This was a good read. It was a quick and easy read and the author did a great job in telling the story of this sick twisted human being....
May 25, 2017
Could have been a GREAT book but lacked detail. Not a book for a True Crime fan but maybe a gentle intro for a newbie!
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