Louise Vermilya

Louise Vermilya (1868–1913) was an American woman who was suspected of being a serial killer. She was accused of poisoning at least nine people, including her own family members, between 1893 and 1911. However, she was never convicted of any murders and died in prison while awaiting trial.

Early Life

Louise Vermilya was born in 1868 in Illinois. Little is known about her early life, but it is believed that she was raised in a middle-class family. She married at a young age and had several children.

Crimes

Vermilya's suspected victims included her two husbands, several of her children, and boarders who lived in her home. The deaths were initially believed to be due to natural causes, but suspicions arose when a pattern emerged. All of the victims had shown similar symptoms before their deaths, including severe stomach pain and vomiting, which are consistent with arsenic poisoning.

Investigation and Trial

The investigation into Vermilya's alleged crimes began in 1911, after the death of her second husband, Frank Brinkamp. An autopsy revealed high levels of arsenic in his body, leading to Vermilya's arrest. During her trial, evidence was presented suggesting that she had purchased arsenic under the guise of using it to kill rats. However, she maintained her innocence throughout the trial.

Death

Vermilya died in prison in 1913, before her trial could be concluded. The cause of her death was reported as heart disease.

Legacy

Louise Vermilya's case is often cited in discussions of female serial killers. Her alleged crimes have been the subject of several books and documentaries.