About Dating Death

This three-part series explores the tumultuous times of the 1970s and unveils how Rodney Alcala's reign of terror spread from Los Angeles to New York.

1968: Los Angeles police rescue a kidnapped girl, but their suspect escapes and reappears across the country using a new identity and preying upon women in New York City.

Articles

Title: "Dating Death"

In June this year, Viasat True Crime will debut a three-episode documentary series, "Dating Death," which delves into the chilling story of Rodney Alcala, a serial killer who terrorized New York and Los Angeles in the 1970s. This production provides the opportunity to learn the details of his crimes and how he managed to evade justice for many years.

"Dating Death" recounts a series of brutal murders committed by Rodney Alcala. Studying art and photography at prestigious universities, Alcala acquired skills that allowed him to form close relationships with young women and children. This ability to manipulate was a key element of his criminal activities.

Alcala's first crime took place in 1968 when he kidnapped, assaulted, and nearly killed an eight- year-old girl in Los Angeles. Although she was rescued by the police, Alcala avoided serious consequences due to the victim's family refusing to testify. After a brief stint in prison, Alcala resurfaced in New York under a new identity, continuing his criminal activities until the murder of a twelve-year-old girl drew police attention to him, leading to his eventual arrest and conviction. Rodney Alcala was not only a serial killer but also an amateur photographer. He often persuaded his victims to pose for photos, giving him the opportunity to establish close contact before attacking. Alcala appeared on the popular game show "The Dating Game," which led to his nickname "The Dating Game Killer." He won the episode, but the woman who was supposed to go on a date with him declined due to his disturbing behavior.

His victims were mainly young women and girls, but there are also suspicions that he killed men. The number of his victims is difficult to determine, but it is estimated that there could have been many. Alcala was sentenced to death in California for five murders, but investigators suspect he was responsible for more crimes in other states.

Who were his victims?

An eight-year-old girl in 1968 who survived his attack.

A twelve-year-old girl from Huntington Beach in 1979, whose case was pivotal in capturing Alcala.

Several other young women who were brutally murdered.

Will the truth come to light?

How did Rodney Alcala evade justice for so many years?

How many more victims did he claim before being caught?

What were the true motives behind his crimes?

The series premieres on Monday, June 17, at 9:00 PM on Viasat True Crime. Subsequent episodes will air on Tuesday and Wednesday, also at 9:00 PM.

Don't miss this opportunity to delve into the terrifying story of one of the most manipulative serial killers in history. "Dating Death" is not just a crime documentary but also a deep analysis of the killer's psyche and the tragedy of his victims. Discover how investigators finally brought Alcala to justice and what secrets may still be uncovered.

STEP INTO A WORLD SHROUDED IN MYSTERY AND DECEIT