Brownout Strangler

Edward Joseph Leonski, also known as the "Brownout Strangler," was an American soldier and serial killer active during World War II in Melbourne, Australia. Born on December 12, 1917, in New York City, Leonski grew up in a troubled family with a history of mental illness. His childhood was marked by his mother's overbearing nature and his father's alcoholism.

In 1941, Leonski enlisted in the U.S. Army and was deployed to Australia in 1942. His arrival coincided with the "brownout" period in Melbourne, a time when streetlights were dimmed to prevent enemy air raids. This created an environment conducive to Leonski's crimes.

Between May 3 and May 18, 1942, Leonski murdered three women. His victims were Ivy Violet McLeod, 40, killed on May 3; Pauline Thompson, 31, on May 9; and Gladys Hosking, 40, on May 18. Leonski strangled his victims and was known to have a peculiar fascination with their voices, often commenting on their beauty.

Leonski was apprehended on May 22, 1942, after a thorough investigation and witness testimonies linking him to the crimes. During his trial, he confessed to the murders, claiming that he killed the women because he wanted their voices. His trial was notable as it was conducted by a U.S. military court in Australia, and he was ultimately found guilty.

On November 9, 1942, Edward Leonski was executed by hanging at Pentridge Prison in Melbourne. His case remains significant as it highlights the psychological complexities of a killer and the challenges of military jurisdiction in a foreign country during wartime.