Keith Hunter Jesperson, also known as the “Happy Face Killer,” terrorized communities across the United States during the 1990s with a string of gruesome murders. Born on April 6, 1955, in British Columbia, Canada, Jesperson grew up in a troubled household. His father frequently abused him, using a leather belt as a form of punishment. As a child, Jesperson exhibited disturbing behavior, including cruelty towards animals.
In 1990, Jesperson committed his first known murder. His victims, often short-term acquaintances, sex workers, and even a girlfriend, were raped and strangled. Jesperson, working as a long-haul truck driver, left their bodies in various states across Oregon, California, Florida, Nebraska, and Washington.
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What made Jesperson particularly chilling was his habit of anonymously confessing to his crimes. He would leave messages signed with smiley faces, earning him the moniker the “Happy Face Killer.” He also had a history of animal cruelty, arson, and sexual assault.
Jesperson’s reign of terror ended in 1995 when he became a suspect in the murder of his girlfriend, Julie Winningham. After a failed suicide attempt, he confessed to her murder and wrote a letter to his brother admitting to being a killer for five years and claiming responsibility for eight deaths.
While in custody, Jesperson provided details of his eight known murders. He received multiple life sentences but was spared the death penalty. Currently incarcerated at the Oregon State Penitentiary, Jesperson spends his time creating artwork, some of which has been seen on “murderabilia” websites.
His story has been the subject of books and movies. The 2014 television movie “Happy Face Killer” starred David Arquette as Jesperson. Authors such as Jack Olsen and M. William Phelps have also delved into Jesperson’s life and crimes.
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Keith Hunter Jesperson’s chilling tale serves as a reminder of the horrors that can be perpetrated by individuals hiding in plain sight. His legacy as the “Happy Face Killer” will forever be associated with the terror he inflicted upon his victims and the communities he plagued.
