The Axeman of New Orleans: A Mysterious and Terrifying Killer
The Axeman of New Orleans was a serial killer who terrorized the city between 1918 and 1919. Known for breaking into homes and attacking victims with an axe, this unidentified murderer left a trail of fear and mystery. His brutal killings, eerie letters to the press, and supposed love for jazz music have made him one of the most infamous figures in true crime history.
The Murders
The first widely accepted attack attributed to the Axeman occurred on May 23, 1918, when Joseph and Catherine Maggio, Italian grocers, were found brutally assaulted in their home. Joseph’s throat had been slit, and Catherine was severely beaten. An axe, belonging to the Maggios, was left at the crime scene.
Over the following months, a pattern emerged:
• The Axeman primarily targeted Italian-American grocers and their families.
• He would break into homes during the night, often using a chisel to remove door panels.
• The murder weapon was usually an axe found at the victims’ homes, never one he brought himself.
• In some cases, victims survived their injuries but could not provide a clear description of the attacker.
Notable attacks include:
• June 27, 1918: Louis Besumer and Harriet Lowe were attacked in their store. Harriet later accused Besumer of being a German spy before succumbing to her injuries.
• August 5, 1918: Mrs. Schneider, a pregnant woman, was assaulted but miraculously survived.
• March 10, 1919: Charles and Rosie Cortimiglia were attacked, resulting in the death of their two-year-old daughter.
The Axeman’s Letter
One of the most infamous aspects of the Axeman’s legend is a letter he sent to The Times-Picayune newspaper on March 13, 1919. It was signed “The Axeman” and contained chilling statements, including:
“They have never caught me and they never will. They have never seen me, for I am invisible, even as the ether that surrounds your earth.”
He claimed to be a supernatural being from Hell and stated that he would kill again on the night of March 19, 1919—but with one exception:
“I am very fond of jazz music, and I swear by all the devils in the nether regions that every person shall be spared in whose home a jazz band is in full swing.”
That night, jazz music filled the city as citizens played records and live bands performed in homes and clubs. No one was murdered.
Theories and Suspects
Despite numerous attacks, the Axeman was never caught. Some theories suggest:
1. Mafia Connections: Since many victims were Italian grocers, some believe the murders were mob-related.
2. A Single Maniac: Others think the Axeman was a lone serial killer with a psychological disorder.
3. Multiple Killers: Given the inconsistencies in attack methods and victim profiles, some argue the crimes were committed by more than one person.
Conclusion
The Axeman of New Orleans remains one of America’s greatest unsolved mysteries. His reign of terror ended as suddenly as it began, and he was never heard from again after October 1919. Whether he was a supernatural being, a deranged killer, or a mob enforcer, his story has cemented itself in history—forever linked to the haunting sounds of jazz