Infamous Family Murderer John List Dies in Prison: A Look Back at His Crimes

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John List, who gained notoriety for murdering five family members in 1971 and evading capture for 18 years, died in prison from pneumonia-related complications in 2008. List brutally killed his mother, wife, and three children in their Westfield, New Jersey home before disappearing. According to ABC News, he left behind a letter confessing to the murders, citing financial ruin as his motivation.

After the killings, List fled to Colorado, assuming a new identity and starting a new life, which included remarriage. His capture came in 1989 after his image aired on "America’s Most Wanted," leading a neighbor to inform authorities. Following his arrest, List was sentenced to five consecutive life terms in prison.

List's actions were reportedly driven by a belief that poverty would lead his children away from their faith. He attempted to cover his tracks by misinforming local services about his family's whereabouts. His case remains a chilling example of premeditated violence and the tragic consequences of mental distress.

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