If you’re fascinated by true crime and keen on learning about the darker side of life, there are plenty of books and movies to keep you engrossed. However, did you know that one of the eeriest stories you’ll ever learn about took place right here in the Motor City? When you’re ready to immerse yourself in a sinister true tale, read on to familiarize yourself with this scary unsolved mystery.
You might think you’re well-versed in the history of Detroit, but there’s one truly horrific event that’s rarely taught in local schools: the terrifying St. Aubin Street Massacre.
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During the summer of 1929, tragedy befell one family of Italian immigrants who called Detroit’s St. Aubin Street home. Be forewarned: the fate of Benny Evangelist was grim.
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Evangelist, sometimes referred to as “Benjamino Evangelista,” first came to the United States in 1902. Throughout the years, he made a name for himself as a “mystic.”
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In fact, some called Evangelist a cult leader, as he received significant sums of money to “heal” needy followers who believed in his self-proclaimed prophetic abilities.
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While many swore by Evangelist’s methods, he had also garnered his fair share of enemies in Detroit - a factor that might have contributed to the St. Aubin Street Massacre.
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In early July of 1929, a neighbor discovered the nearly-decapitated body of Evangelist at his desk. The bloody bodies of his wife and four children were found in their beds.
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The horror doesn’t end there: all six victims appeared to have been killed with an axe, which only adds to the brutal nature of the crime. To this day, the murders remain unsolved.
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While speculation remains ripe, the Evangelists’ home no longer stands - but a drive down St. Aubin Street might just make your spine tingle with a sense of mystery and dread.
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Have you read about the St. Aubin Street Massacre? Do you have any theories as to who might have been responsible for ending the lives of Benny Evangelist and his family? Share your thoughts with us in the Facebook comments or recommend another spooky spot in Detroit by filling out our nomination form.
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Stadtratte via iStock/Getty Images
Busà Photography via Moment/Getty Images
Flickr/Steven Vacher
Need to clear your head after reading such a scary story? Round up the family and take a calming stroll along this boardwalk trail near Detroit.
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Address: St Aubin St, Detroit, MI, USA
