Episode 7: Michael Ross "The Roadside Strangler"

Summary This episode covers the life and crimes of Michael Bruce Ross, a serial killer known as the Roadside Strangler. Ross confessed to murdering eight women between 1981 and 1984, and he was the first and only person executed in Connecticut in 2005. The conversation explores Ross's troubled childhood, his college years, and the escalation of his violent crimes. It also delves into his mental health issues and the legal proceedings surrounding his case. The episode concludes by highlighting the importance of remembering and honoring the victims. Takeaways Michael Bruce Ross, also known as the Roadside Strangler, confessed to murdering eight women between 1981 and 1984. Ross had a troubled childhood and experienced abuse from his mother, which may have contributed to his violent tendencies. He was arrested multiple times for assault and rape but managed to evade capture for his murders until he confessed to them. Ross's mental health and competency were questioned throughout his legal proceedings, but he ultimately waived his appeals and was executed in 2005. It is important to remember and honor the victims of Ross's crimes, whose lives were tragically cut short. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:55 Early Life and Family Background 06:37 College Years and Early Crimes 10:43 First Confession and Unsolved Murders 19:12 Double Murder and Additional Victims 25:14 Mental Illness and Competency 29:25 Penalty Hearing and Appeals 32:55 Additional Confessions and Execution 39:04 Remembering the Victims