Theodore Robert Bundy—born November 24, 1946—became one of America's most infamous serial killers, operating across six states over a four-year period that would terrify the nation and fundamentally change how law enforcement approached violent crime investigations.

Bundy's known murders began in February 1974 in Washington state, though his predatory behavior surfaced earlier. In January 1974, he broke into the apartment of Karen Sparks in Seattle, bludgeoning and sexually assaulting her. Sparks survived, but she was far from his only victim.

What distinguished Bundy from other killers was his calculated method and psychological manipulation. He didn't fit the stereotype of a dangerous criminal. Handsome, articulate, and intelligent, Bundy used his appearance and charm as a weapon. He posed as a police officer or authority figure to gain access to victims. On November 8, 1974, in Utah, he attempted to kidnap 18-year-old Carol DaRonch by posing as law enforcement—she managed to escape. That same day, 17-year-old Debra Kent vanished, likely another victim.

Bundy's method was deliberate: kidnapping, rape, and murder. He targeted young women across Washington, Oregon, Colorado, Utah, and Idaho before turning his attention to Florida in 1978. Among his confirmed victims were Kimberley Leach and Lynette Culver, both just 12 years old, highlighting the predatory nature of his crimes.