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Winnipeg’s history isn’t just about milestones and growth, it has also seen its share of infamous figures whose crimes shocked the city and left lasting impressions. Here are five criminals who became notorious in Winnipeg’s past:
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1. Earl Nelson – The “Gorilla Killer”
In the 1920s, Earl Nelson, an American serial killer, terrorized North America, including Winnipeg. He was known for targeting boarding houses. In 1927, his killing spree ended after he was arrested in Manitoba and later executed in Winnipeg, marking a dark chapter in the city’s history.
2. Ken Leishman – The “Flying Bandit”
Ken Leishman was a charismatic thief who gained notoriety in the 1960s. Known for stealing airplanes, he masterminded one of Canada’s largest gold heists, stealing millions of dollars worth of gold bullion. Despite being captured, his daring escapades earned him a mix of infamy and admiration.
3. Andrea Giesbrecht – The Storage Locker Case
In 2014, Andrea Giesbrecht shocked the city when the remains of six infants were discovered in a storage locker she had rented. Convicted of concealing the bodies, her case drew widespread media attention and raised questions about mental health and social systems.
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4. The Bloody Saturday Murder
During the Winnipeg General Strike of 1919, one man, Mike Sokolowski, was shot and killed during violent clashes between protesters and police. Though the exact details remain contested, his death remains one of the strike’s most infamous moments, representing a breakdown in law and order.
5. The Barber House Murderers
In the 1880s, Winnipeg was shaken by the gruesome murder of a young woman at the Barber House, an iconic building in Point Douglas. The case remains unsolved to this day, becoming part of local lore and adding an air of mystery to one of the city’s oldest structures.
These criminals and cases left a mark on Winnipeg’s history, their actions serving as reminders of the challenges faced by law enforcement and the justice system.
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