The Axeman of New Orléans is a confirmed serial killer who was active between 1918 and 1919 in new Orléans. The killer was never caught, and to this current day his identity remains a mystery. He has since passed on into a local urban legend in New Orléans, with many considering him to be a myth. There are also legends stating that there were similar reports in 1911, but they are still up for debate over their validity.
The attacks[]
The attacks occurred between May 1918 and October 1919. The Axeman of New Orléans had 12 confirmed victims, resulting in 6 fatalities. The majority of his victims were Italian immigrants and Italian-Americans.
The Axeman primarily used an axe in his attacks.
The murders caused a mass panic similar to the later panic over the contested 'Mad Gasser of Mattoon' in the mid-1940s. Panic also sparked legends of similar killings in 1911 but they are contested.
Possible explanations/motive[]
Several theories have arisen over the legends and motives:
- Actual serial killer (mostly accepted)
- Hoax/folklore
- Mafia killings
- Promotion of music (most outlandish)
