‘Society needs monsters’: why are Americans so obsessed with the idea of serial killers?

Despite a significant decline in serial killings since the 1970s, interest in the phenomenon remains high, particularly in Austin, Texas, where rumors of a serial killer dubbed the Rainey Street Ripper have captivated residents. Authorities have linked several drownings in the area to substance abuse rather than a serial killer, highlighting the complex relationship between crime, media, and public fascination. This ongoing narrative reflects broader societal themes about fear, safety, and the allure of the macabre.