In the late 1960s, Northern California faced a terrifying serial killer known as the Zodiac Killer. From December 1968 to October 1969, he claimed the lives of at least five people. Despite sending cryptic letters and ciphers to local newspapers, the true identity of the Zodiac Killer remains unknown. This article explores the stories of nine suspects linked to this infamous case.
Gary Francis Poste: The Scarred Veteran
In 2021, an investigative team called the Case Breakers claimed to have identified the Zodiac Killer as Gary Francis Poste, a California house painter who died in 2018. The Case Breakers, consisting of former police officers, military intelligence officers, and journalists, pointed to several factors that made Poste a convincing suspect.
One similarity between Poste and the Zodiac Killer was the distinctive scars on their foreheads. Multiple witnesses and a police officer noted these scars, which were then included in a 1969 San Francisco Police Department sketch. Comparing Poste’s photograph to the police sketch, the likeness is striking.
The investigative team also found a potential breakthrough by removing Poste’s name from one of the Zodiac’s encrypted messages, revealing a new message. They also pointed out a paint-splattered military wristwatch found near a possible Zodiac victim, Cheri Jo Bates, in Riverside, California in 1966. Poste, who once served in the U.S. Air Force, could have owned that watch.
Several of Poste’s acquaintances described his menacing nature. While living in Groveland, California, he reportedly formed a criminal “posse” and recruited young men. Astonishingly, Poste allegedly confessed to being the Zodiac Killer to one of his recruits.
However, not everyone believes Gary Francis Poste is the Zodiac Killer. Tom Voigt, an expert on the case, called the Case Breakers’ claims “bogus” and “hot garbage.” Voigt argued that the police sketch did not depict scars but rather shading. He also mentioned other, more compelling suspects worth considering.
The search for the Zodiac Killer’s identity continues, with suspects’ names emerging and fading over the years. As we delve into the stories of these nine individuals, we are reminded of the lasting intrigue and immense challenges surrounding one of America’s most notorious unsolved cases.