Dean Corll The Houston Mass Murderer

Ed Bradley

2 min read

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24-03-2025

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Dean Corll, a seemingly ordinary candy factory worker, concealed a horrifying secret: he was one of the most prolific serial killers in American history. His reign of terror in Houston, Texas, during the early 1970s left a chilling legacy and continues to fascinate and horrify investigators and the public alike. This is a look into the disturbing life and crimes of this notorious figure.

A Charming Facade

Corll cultivated a persona of affability and generosity. He was known for his seemingly kind nature, often showering young men with gifts and attention. This made him a trusted figure within his community, a crucial element in his ability to lure and control his victims. This deceptive charm allowed him to prey upon vulnerable young men, many of whom were runaways or from troubled backgrounds.

The "Candy Man"

Corll earned his chilling moniker, "The Candy Man," due to his occupation at a candy factory and the fact that he often used sweets and other treats to entice his victims. However, the sweetness was purely a facade, masking the brutal reality that awaited his victims. The "treats" were a lure into a nightmare.

The Modus Operandi

Corll's methods were chillingly systematic. He would abduct his victims, often using his charm and the promise of companionship, before subjecting them to unspeakable acts of torture and murder. His crimes were frequently committed with the assistance of two accomplices, Elmer Wayne Henley and David Brooks. This partnership amplified his ability to target, capture, and kill his victims. The level of brutality and sadism involved is almost beyond comprehension.

The Discovery and Aftermath

The reign of terror ended in 1973 when Henley, one of Corll's accomplices, ultimately turned against him. Henley's intervention led to the horrifying discovery of multiple bodies buried on Corll's property and elsewhere. The sheer scale of Corll's crimes sent shockwaves through Houston and beyond.

The investigation uncovered the details of Corll's gruesome killing spree, revealing the extent of the horrors he inflicted upon at least 28 young men. The exact number of victims remains a subject of speculation, with some believing the true toll could be significantly higher.

The Legacy of Fear

The case of Dean Corll stands as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary individuals. His story serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of vigilance and the devastating consequences of unchecked violence. The "Candy Man" left an enduring scar on the collective consciousness of Houston, leaving behind a legacy of fear and unanswered questions. The case continues to be studied by criminal psychologists and remains a deeply disturbing chapter in the annals of true crime.