Have you ever wanted to visit a crime scene? I’ll admit that I have – several of them, in fact.
For this week’s version of Thursday 13, I’m listing the thirteen crime scenes that I would like to and/or have visited, along with the reason why, in no particular order.
- America’s Ground Zero of the 9/11 Attack
I would like to visit the site of America’s most brutal crime. It isn’t the morbid curiosity that drives me, but the need to stand in remembrance of those who died. - Auschwitz Concentration Camp in Germany
Again, it is not morbid curiosity that draws me to this site of unspeakable crimes, but a need to remember those who suffered there. - Old Caste Street in Whitechapel, London, England
The unsolved 1800s crimes of Jack the Ripper have always fascinated me and I think it would be extremely interesting to walk the same areas where he prowled. - The site of the JFK Assassination in Dallas, Texas
The motorcade route will undoubtedly remain as one of the most famous crime scenes in America, as well as the crime being one of great debates. - The Home of Lizzy Borden in Fall River, Massachusetts
Here’s another American crime that will remain a much discussed topic. Having seen this home on numerous travel shows, I would love to visit simply for the sense of history – and a chance to see a ghost! - The Clutter Farm in Holcomb, Kansas
Being the site of murders that led to the creation of the true crime genre, I think this is a must see place for any true crime follower. - Ford’s Theater in Washington, D.C.
I can’t explain my desire to visit this site of President Abraham Lincoln’s assassination other than I’m a history buff. - West Memphis, Arkansas
Today it is a well-conceived idea – and actually proven – that the three young men convicted of killing three young boys are innocent; yet still remain in prison. I would like to visit this area to get a feel for the people, to understand the mindset and learn how they feel about the men they now know to be innocent. - 10050 Cielo Drive, Los Angeles, California
The site of infamous Charles Manson murders (a.k.a. Helter Skelter) held no other fascination for me other than being linked to a man that continues to baffle me. - Skidmore, Missouri
I admire the people of this small town who dished out contemporary Pioneer justice. With an estimated 45 witnesses who refused to help law enforcement convicted the person(s) responsible, it’s a small town that can keep a secret. - The Home of Dr. Jeffrey McDonald at Fort Bragg, North Carolina
The man accused of murdering his pregnant wife and two daughters has always held a fascination for me. - The Home of Dr. Harold Shipman of Hyde, Cheshire, England
…as well as his practice and the homes of his victimized patients. Dr. Shipman’s home life was just as eccentric as his medical practice, creating a double dose of interesting. - Central Park, New York, New York
The 843 acre park in Manhattan is one big giant crime scene, so it is a must on this list.. I have yet to visit New York, but Central Park is definitely one place I will be sure to see when I go – but only during the daylight hours!


The name of your list caught my eye. I’m also a true crime fan.
It’s funny to hear Ground Zero called a crime scene, perhaps because I’m a New Yorker? To me it will always be the site of the Twin Towers.
& Central Park isn’t all bad! LOL
Been to #7….interesting beyond words!! And the one I’d love to see is the White Chapel District in London…Jack the Ripper.
My 13 is posted, if you can stop by for a visit it’d be awesome…but if you can’t have a great Thursday anyway. Click HERE and scroll down a bit on my post.
I’m not sure I could visit some of those without losing sleep for a year.
Have a good Thursday!
http://iamharriet.blogspot.com/2009/10/if-jon-gosselin-and-octomom-got-married.html
I’d like to visit ground zero to pay my respects. I also want to go on a haunted house tour.
Happy T13!
I too am a New Yorker, so I don’t think of Ground Zero or Central Park as crime scenes. Central park is not that bad at all. I’ve been there. At night.
I’ve also been to Fords theater.
This is definitely a unique TT. Wishing you a picture perfect day!
Patty
A few of those would be on my list as well your number one would be mine as well. One that would have to be in my 13 would be Ed Gein from Plainfield, Wisconsin, where he grew up and committed most of his body snatching and his two murders. I loved you list tho it is awesome!
Hi Kim,
I hae been to three of the sites you mentioned…sort of. I visited the Tate residence for my first book, HOLLYWOOD DEATH SCENES. Of course, being a Texan I had to go to Dealey Plaza and the Book Depository. The third would be the World trade Center, however, I stayed there 11 years before the terrorist attacks so that probably doesn’t count. I’ve been to John Wayne gacy’s house, went to school where Charles Whitman assassinated 16 people, been to all of the Manson locations, Hillside Stranglers, Night Stalker etc., etc. I don;t think there is a place you can go without finding some kind of tragedy nearby. Fascinating, but very sad at the same time.
I’m really enjoying your blog. Keep up the good work and thanks for all the great book reviews!
Sorry for all the typos. That’s why I never should type with a headache and must always proof before hitting “Enter.”