Let’s remember when Ted Bundy was put to death, on this day in 1989 (January 24)

Chris Burlingame
Journal of Precipitation
2 min readJan 24, 2019

Washington state’s most notorious serial killer and its most famous Republican, was put to death thirty years ago today via electric chair in Florida. He killed at least thirty women (that he confessed to, could be more), so his execution was received favorably at the time (and even though I oppose capital punishment, he’s someone it’s impossible for me to mourn).

This gets to the heart of how he merged into such a prolific murderer:

Due to his lack of finances and his need to keep up appearances, Bundy stole things he needed from stores and homes. He also continued a childhood habit of peeping into women’s windows and developed a strong appetite for violent pornography. In order to relax before engaging in theft or voyeurism, Bundy would consume large amounts of alcohol. About this time, he traded in his beloved VW bug for a newer light brown, 1968 model.

This neatly sums up how he became such a prolific and notorious murderer:

Bundy had matured into a handsome man with striking blue eyes who dressed impeccably. University theatrical arts classes taught him about acting and makeup. He acquired a false mustache and other accessories that allowed him to change his appearance at will. While working for a medical supply company Ted stole a variety of props, including plaster casting material, splints, slings, and crutches.

Even his lawyers thought he was evil. He had escaped from prison a handful of times, and Florida probably thought it was best to put him to death for the benefit of everyone else.

For further reading:

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Chris Burlingame
Journal of Precipitation

Seattleite, (mostly) retired arts/culture blogger. Come for the Seinfeld references, stay for the Producers references.