Disclaimer: The article discusses murder. Reader discretion is advised.
Jack the Ripper stands out as one of history’s most notorious serial killers, infamously linked to the gruesome murders of multiple women between August and November 1888. Some experts suggest that his brutal spree may have continued until 1892. Investigations by law enforcement have established connections to five known victims, with Mary Jane Kelly, his final victim, enduring one of the most horrific fates. Recently, discussions arose surrounding the possible exhumation of her remains due to a controversial theory.
The Ministry of Justice in the UK announced in 2015 its decision to permit the exhumation of Mary Kelly’s remains. This move followed the emergence of a theory from an author who claimed that the true identity of Jack the Ripper was Francis Spurzheim Craig, who allegedly murdered Kelly as a form of revenge. The theory posits that Kelly was Craig’s wife, who had returned to prostitution after their marriage, leading to her tragic demise.
Despite previous requests for exhumation being denied, the author suggested that familial ties to Kelly might have influenced the government’s approval for DNA testing. He argued that this connection could lend credence to the investigation.
Who was Jack the Ripper’s final victim Mary Kelly?
In his publication, Dr. Wynne Weston-Davies claimed that Francis Spurzheim Craig murdered four women to eliminate doubts about his identity as Jack the Ripper, viewing these acts as part of a quest for vengeance. However, researchers and experts highlight significant challenges related to the exhumation of Kelly’s remains, labeling it as “impractical” and citing prohibitive costs. Reports indicate that her remains are located at St Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery in Leytonstone.
It is important to note that Jack the Ripper was never apprehended, and his true identity remains unknown. While some dismiss him as a mere myth, others speculate that his victim count may exceed five. A wealth of documentaries and resources is available for those interested in delving deeper into the mysterious legacy of Jack the Ripper.
