Due to the graphic nature of this killer's crimes, listener discretion is advised.

This episode includes discussions of murder, sexual assault of minors, parapheralia, rape

and assault that some people may find offensive.

We advise extreme caution for children under 13.

On the night of May 14, 1930, 21-year-old Maria Budleck rode the train through Germany

from Cologne to Dusseldorf.

During the grisly crimes that had taken place over the past year, Maria was less than thrilled

about the prospect of moving to Dusseldorf.

Just a few weeks earlier, she had poured over an article about the man they called the

vampire of Dusseldorf, relieved that she wasn't in his city.

But work was scarce, and she was desperate.

So when a family offered her a position in their home, Maria couldn't say no.

Maria stepped off the train and onto the Dusseldorf platform and squinted at the sign

telling her directions toward the city.

She had booked a night in a women's hostel, but couldn't figure out how to get there.

After noticing she was lost, a mad approach didn't offer to lead the way.

Maria was nervous about wandering Dusseldorf alone and lost, so she accepted his help.

They made their way out of the station and towards town, chatting about Maria's recent

journey.

The conversation must have been rather engrossing, as the two failed to notice that a quiet,

pale man lurked behind them, and he was ready to strike.

Hi, I'm Greg Poulson.

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