Summary
Gilles de Ray, a former war hero turned notorious serial killer, faces a dramatic unraveling as his violent crimes escalate and his financial situation deteriorates. Once a celebrated figure in the French army, de Ray indulges in sadistic acts against children while attempting to restore his wealth through alchemical practices. His relationship with an alchemist leads him to commit increasingly horrific acts, including child abductions and sacrifices, in a desperate bid for power and riches.
As rumors of his crimes spread, de Ray's actions draw the attention of the church and local authorities. His attempts to summon demons for assistance backfire, leading to a series of violent outbursts and further abductions. Ultimately, his reckless behavior culminates in an attack on a neighboring estate, which prompts a secret investigation by the Bishop of Nantes. The investigation reveals the extent of de Ray's atrocities, leading to his arrest and a trial that uncovers a chilling confession of over 140 murders.
Despite his initial confidence in evading justice, de Ray's fate is sealed when he is found guilty and sentenced to death. His execution, marked by a combination of hanging and burning, reflects the severity of his crimes and the church's condemnation of his actions. The case of Gilles de Ray serves as a haunting reminder of the dark potential within the human psyche, illustrating the complex interplay between power, privilege, and moral decay.
Show Notes
During the 1400s, Gilles de Rais terrorized his lands, kidnapping and murdering children as he pleased. But when he stopped being useful to his lords, this medieval serial killer's crimes were finally exposed. And in today's second Throwback Thursday episode, Vanessa Richardson and Dr. Tristin Engels ask: would anyone care enough to stop him from murdering again?
And for more cases just like this one, be sure to check out the Crime House Original, Serial Killers and Murderous Minds. If you’re new here, don’t forget to follow Crime House 24/7 to never miss a case! For ad-free listening and exclusive bonus episodes, subscribe to Crime House+. Join at crimehouseplus.com or if you’re listening on Apple Podcasts, tap “Try Free” at the top of this show’s page. Crime House 24/7 is a Crime House Original Podcast, powered by PAVE Studios. 🎧 Need More to Binge? Listen to other Crime House Originals Clues, Crimes Of Reddit, Serial Killers & Murderous Minds, Conspiracy Theories, Cults, & Crimes, Murder True Crime Stories, and more wherever you get your podcasts! Follow me on Social Instagram: @Crimehouse | @crimehouse247 TikTok: @Crimehouse | @crimehouse247 Facebook: @crimehousestudios X: @crimehousemedia YouTube: @crimehousestudios
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