Amityville Horror: The Truth Behind the Murders

In November 1974, Ronald "Butch" DeFeo Jr. fatally shot six members of his family at 112 Ocean Avenue, a Dutch Colonial house on Long Island. DeFeo claimed "the voices of the house" compelled him, but he was convicted of six counts of second-degree murder and sentenced to life imprisonment.

Thirteen months later, George and Kathy Lutz purchased the house, only to flee 28 days later with their three children, alleging severe paranormal disturbances. This period inspired Jay Anson's 1977 book, "The Amityville Horror," and a successful 1979 film adaptation, cementing the house's place in popular culture.

Accounts of paranormal activity, including strange smells, levitation, and unexplained sounds, have been questioned over the years. Some individuals involved, including DeFeo's defense attorney, have suggested the story was embellished or even fabricated, with inconsistencies noted in weather reports and specific events.

Ronald DeFeo died in prison on March 12, 2021. George and Kathy Lutz divorced after leaving Amityville; both have since passed away. The house at 112 Ocean Avenue remains standing, having been sold for $605,000 in 2017, with subsequent occupants reporting no supernatural occurrences.