The Stoneman murders refer to a set of unsolved homicides that took place in Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), India, during the mid-1980s. This case is notable for the mystery that surrounds the identity of the perpetrator, as well as the pattern and method of the killings.
Background
The name “Stoneman” was given by the media and local police due to the method employed by the killer, which involved crushing the skulls of the victims using a heavy stone or concrete slab. The killings took place between 1985 and 1989, primarily targeting homeless individuals who were sleeping alone in dimly lit areas of the city.
The Killings
The Stoneman typically struck at night, choosing isolated locations where homeless people slept. The victims were often hit on the head with a single, lethal blow from a large stone or slab of concrete. The killer did not rob or sexually assault the victims, which led to further confusion regarding the motive. In total, there were more than a dozen deaths attributed to the Stoneman, although the exact number remains unclear due to the lack of eyewitnesses and forensic evidence.
Investigation
The investigation faced several hurdles from the outset. The lack of witnesses and forensic evidence made it difficult for the police to construct a profile of the killer or ascertain a motive. The transient lifestyle of the victims and the general public’s indifference to their plight further compounded the investigation’s challenges.
There were theories suggesting that the killer might be mentally ill, given the brutal nature of the killings and the lack of a clear motive. Others speculated that the murderer could be someone with a deep-seated hatred for the homeless. However, no substantial evidence was ever found to support these theories.
Legacy
The Stoneman murders left a lasting impact on Kolkata’s social and cultural fabric. The case highlighted the vulnerabilities of the city’s homeless population and the limitations of the criminal justice system in dealing with serial killings. It also became a part of local urban legend and has inspired various forms of media, including films and documentaries.
Unsolved Mystery
To this day, the Stoneman murders remain one of India’s most notorious unsolved mysteries. The lack of concrete evidence, the absence of any witnesses, and the failure to apprehend a suspect have all contributed to the enduring mystery of the Stoneman killer.
In conclusion, the Stoneman murders of Kolkata represent a chilling chapter in the annals of Indian crime history, serving as a stark reminder of the dark, unsolved mysteries that continue to haunt societies across the world.