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Today in History: John Wayne Gacy executed for twelve 1970s murders

5/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On May 10, John Wayne Gacy—infamous “Killer Clown” who raped, tortured and killed at least thirty-three young men in Chicago’s suburbs between 1972 and 1978—was executed after decades of legal battles by lethal injection for the murders of twelve teenage boys and young men.

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Story summary

On May 10, John Wayne Gacy—infamous “Killer Clown” who raped, tortured and killed at least thirty-three young men in Chicago’s suburbs between 1972 and 1978—was executed after decades of legal battles by lethal injection for the murders of twelve teenage boys and young men.