Social media speculation about a possible New England serial killer is running rampant despite law enforcement’s repeated denials of any connection between several bodies found across three states.
At a Glance
- A Facebook group called “New England SK” has attracted nearly 9,000 members discussing theories about recent body discoveries
- Seven bodies have been found since March across Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts, fueling online speculation
- Police departments have consistently denied any connections between the cases
- Criminologists and experts warn that social media speculation can harm investigations and victims’ families
- New England’s historical fascination with serial killers adds to the public interest in these theories
The Social Media Phenomenon
Nearly 9,000 people have joined a Facebook group called “New England SK” where members actively discuss theories about a potential serial killer operating in the region. The group formed after seven bodies were discovered in March across Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts. Despite consistent statements from multiple police departments denying any connection between these cases, online speculation continues to build, creating what some experts describe as a self-reinforcing cycle of conspiracy theories.
The phenomenon has grown to the point where police resources are being diverted to address unfounded claims. In one notable incident, an anonymous confession posted in a Facebook group led authorities in Rhode Island to conduct a futile search, wasting valuable time and resources that could have been directed toward legitimate investigations. The spread of these theories represents a growing challenge for law enforcement in the age of social media.
A New England serial killer? What crime experts say about rampant rumors and speculation https://t.co/UlHfbl09nv
— The Beacon newspaper (@ActonBeacon) May 1, 2025
Expert Skepticism
Criminologists and law enforcement experts have expressed strong skepticism about the serial killer theory. James Alan Fox, a criminologist from Northeastern University, points to several factors that contradict the idea of a single perpetrator, including the lack of commonality among victims and dump sites. Serial killers typically target victims with similar characteristics and dispose of bodies in similar locations or manners.
“Most serial killers have some commonality in their victims. There’s no pattern to the dump sites.”, said James Alan Fox.
Maureen Boyle, an author who covered the New Bedford Highway Murders, has also voiced concerns about the rampant speculation. She emphasizes that these cases involve real people and families who are suffering, and that treating these tragedies as entertainment is harmful. Fox further notes that serial murders have actually declined nationally in recent decades due to advancements in forensic science and policing techniques.
WATCH! @CRMNLLYObsessed Gilgo Beach Bodies, New England Killing Spree & A ‘Full Moon’ Florida Man! https://t.co/RwAvfzqOaS via @YouTube
— Anne Emerson (@AnneTEmerson) May 2, 2025
Official Denials
Law enforcement officials across New England have been consistent in their message: there is no evidence connecting these cases. The Groton, Connecticut Police Department explicitly stated they have no information connecting incidents in Rhode Island to events in their jurisdiction. In Springfield, Massachusetts, Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni issued a clear statement addressing public concerns.
“At this time, there is no indication that these incidents are connected to each other or are they part of a larger public safety threat.”, said Hampden DA Anthony Gulluni.
Similarly, Middlesex County District Attorney Marian Ryan reported that information gathered at one scene did not indicate foul play. Police Chief Karl Jacobson added that in at least one case, evidence suggests natural causes rather than homicide. Despite these clear statements, online speculation continues, reflecting what some experts describe as a broader societal distrust in leadership and authority figures.
New England’s Fascination with Crime
The region’s historical connection to infamous serial killers like the Boston Strangler may contribute to the current fascination. Podcaster Anngelle Wood suggests that the excitement around these cases resembles “water cooler talk” that has migrated to online platforms. This cultural backdrop, combined with the merging of news and social media into what Professor David Richard calls “info-tainment,” creates fertile ground for speculation.
Wood and other experts emphasize the importance of refocusing attention on the victims and their families. The human cost of these tragedies is often overlooked in the rush to develop theories and connections. Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies face the difficult task of balancing transparency with the need to protect ongoing investigations. Officials must now consider how to effectively communicate with a public that may be predisposed to skepticism.
As investigations continue into each individual case, authorities will need to present convincing evidence to counteract public skepticism. The persistence of these theories despite official denials highlights the complex relationship between social media, traditional investigative work, and public perception in modern crime investigations.
