Ciphered Messages
The Zodiac Killer was notorious for his use of cryptic codes and symbols in letters sent to the media and law enforcement agencies. These messages were intended to confuse investigators and instill fear in the public. The most well-known of these cryptograms was the "Zodiac Killer's 340 Cipher," which stumped investigators for over 50 years until a team of codebreakers finally solved it in December 2020.
This cipher contained 340 characters and was sent to the San Francisco Chronicle newspaper in November 1969. The deciphered message revealed the killer's narcissistic nature and his belief that he was superior to those trying to catch him. The note included the chilling statement: "I hope you are having lots of fun in trying to catch me. I am not afraid of the gas chamber because it will send me to paradise all the sooner because I now have enough slaves to work for me." He boasted of his crimes and threatened to continue killing unless his demands were met.
The Zodiac Killer's letters also contained handwritten messages, drawings, and other symbols, which added to the mystery surrounding the case. These letters were often sent to multiple recipients, including the media and law enforcement, and sometimes contained specific demands. The case has continued to captivate the public imagination due to the killer's use of cryptic codes and symbols, which have added to his terrifying legacy.
Possible Motives
The true motive behind the Zodiac Killer's murders remains unknown. The Zodiac claimed in his letters to newspapers that he killed for fun and that killing people was his favorite pastime. Some theories suggest that he may have been seeking attention or attempting to gain infamy. Others have speculated that he may have suffered from a mental illness or that he was acting out of a desire for revenge. However, due to the lack of evidence, the true motive behind the Zodiac's murders remains a mystery.Â
Examples of the Zodiac's Letters