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Today in History: Rebecca Schaeffer murder sparks California anti-stalking law

7/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On July 18 1989, 21-year-old actress and model Rebecca Schaeffer was shot to death outside her Los Angeles apartment by 19-year-old fan Robert John Bardo, who had stalked her for three years. The murder shocked the nation and spurred California to enact the first anti-stalking statutes, establishing legal protections for victims.

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Story summary

On July 18 1989, 21-year-old actress and model Rebecca Schaeffer was shot to death outside her Los Angeles apartment by 19-year-old fan Robert John Bardo, who had stalked her for three years. The murder shocked the nation and spurred California to enact the first anti-stalking statutes, establishing legal protections for victims.