[News] Chasing Shadows: The Rodney Alcala Story

Rodney Alcala, also known as the “Dating Game Killer,” was a notorious serial killer and sex offender who committed a series of brutal murders between 1971 and 1979. He was convicted of killing at least eight women and girls, but authorities believe he may have had over 100 victims. Alcala’s crimes were particularly heinous, involving sexual assault and torture. His infamy grew when he appeared on the TV show “The Dating Game” in 1978, during his killing spree. He was finally arrested in 1979 and sentenced to death. Alcala died of natural causes in prison in 2021123.

• Early Life: Rodney Alcala was born in 1943 and showed early signs of antisocial behavior. He joined the U.S. Army but was discharged after a nervous breakdown1.
• Modus Operandi: Alcala often posed as a professional photographer to lure his victims, offering to take their pictures before assaulting and killing them2.
• The Dating Game: In 1978, Alcala appeared on “The Dating Game” and won a date with the bachelorette, who later refused to go out with him due to his creepy demeanor3.
• Arrest and Conviction: Alcala was arrested in 1979 after a 12-year-old girl, Robin Samsoe, went missing. Her remains were found, leading to his conviction3.
• Legal Battles: Alcala’s case went through multiple trials and appeals, with his death sentence being overturned and reinstated several times.