The Keystroke Killer

by Melissa Caudle

  “What about hair or blood samples? What do they tell us about each victim?” Agent Mansfield creased his brow. He looked at Robby with painful reproach for the victims.

  “Great question. Forensics took hair samples, and every girl had colored their hair. Again, more of a coincidence than a factor for identification given the propensity of women who constantly change the color of their hair today. However, blood samples revealed each victim had Ketamine in her system. They were awake and paralyzed when the unsub removed their teeth and tongues suffering great pain.”

  “You mean the victim’s felt the pain from being tortured?” Agent Locklear shivered.

  “I’m afraid so.”

  “They call that drug Special K.” Agent Mansfield licked his lips.

  “That’s correct. Ketamine is a powerful drug which causes memory problems, distortion of sight and sound, loss of coordination and convulsions. It’s mainly used on animals; so, our killer may be a veterinarian.”

  Agent Mansfield took a pause. “I think I’d have to agree with you.”

  “Excuse me boys. That’s another strong assumption. You both think the killer is a veterinarian who likes to go to the lake?”

  Robby nodded in confirmation. “I wouldn’t rule it out. Now this brings me to the DNA samples. If any of the women registered with a DNA profile company like Ancestry Heritage, forensic pathologists would have been able to identify them that way and the killer if he or she and any family member registered. This is how they caught the Golden State serial killer.”

  “That’s basic forensics.” Agent Mansfield pursed his lips.

  “They have had no luck there either. No familial matches.”

  “That makes things a lot more complicated.” Agent Locklear scratched her neck.

  “I agree. There wasn’t even a close match from another family member who might have registered. The last thing has to do with the DNA search to find evidence that the killer might have left on the victim.”

  Agent Mansfield’s eyes lit. “Please tell me they found evidence there.”

  “No such luck. No fibers or epithelial cells. However, crime scene personnel took DNA beneath the women’s fingernails. First, it was believed because each victim was submerged in lake water, that no DNA evidence would prove helpful due to degradation. However, the exact opposite occurred. Each victim’s nails had at least three of the other victims’ DNA which would indicate that the killer most likely used the same nail clipper to cut their nails. So, we know that it’s likely the same killer, but there is no trace evidence to place the killer at the crime scenes.”

  Frustrated, Agent Mansfield exhaled. “Basically, what you’re saying is between the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Scotland Yard and the FBI, no one has a lead?”

  “That is one assumption. I will keep looking through the files and if I find any useful information, I’ll pass it to you at once.”

  chapter 21

  Near Death Experiences

  In the middle of Loyola’s courtyard, students held a memorial for Frances Cook. Classmates brought an assortment of flowers with balloons, teddy bears and candles. They placed them where a campus security guard discovered her body.

  Milo wore a Loyola emblem black hoodie jogging suit as he leaned against a tree and observed the tribute. If the Sorority serial killer is here, he’ll show up to the memorial service because that’s what I’d do. He assessed everyone.

  Jon carried a balloon and a dozen yellow roses headed toward the memorial. He arranged the flowers at the base below her portrait. Milo entered his mind as the frat boy let go of the balloons and grabbed his head. Milo released his control. Nope, he’s too emotional. Not him.

  Mag and Jenni stopped at the memorial. A tear fell down Jenni’s cheek. “I still can’t believe she’s gone.”

  “Me too. This whole serial killer thing is driving me crazy. I keep looking over my shoulder thinking the killer could be anyone. He is probably watching us right now.”

  Possible candidates for me to kill, but they aren’t him. Milo relinquished Mag’s mind and focused on Jenni.

  Mag twisted her neck. “Wow. I just felt the weirdest sensation. I think it’s stress.”

  “I felt something too. Like I had a brain fart. For a second, I thought I saw Frances’ memorial from a different angle.”

  “I kinda know what you mean. I still have a tingling sensation. Nope, it's gone. Really weird.”

  Jenni bit her nails. She looked at her watch. “I’m worried.”

  Mag lips lengthened. “Don’t worry, she’ll be here.”

  “She’s always late. I can’t help but to worry now Lorenzo is back in her life. He’s not a good influence.”

  “Look, here she comes with Roth.”

  “Wow, only fifteen minutes late this time.”

  Milo glanced over at Blaze and Roth. There you are Blaze. Don’t worry it’ll be over soon. I’ll finish what I started.

  Roth and Blaze made their way to Mag and Jenni.

  Blaze glanced at the memorial. “I wish I hadn’t been rude to her.”

  Jenni took a deep breath. “I wouldn’t worry about that. She could be conceited and haughty.”

  Roth put his arm around Blaze’s shoulder. “She was rude to those she thought didn’t fit in with the right crowd. You’re a changed woman now. Never forget that.”

  Milo fixated on Blaze as her body jerked. Oh Blaze, the web of deceit you’re tangled in. You might as well turn and become one of us. He focused hard on Roth.

  Roth choked; he grabbed his neck. I can’t breathe. He gasped for air.

  The girls looked at him. Blaze patted Roth on his back. “Oh my God. What do we do?”

  Roth choked. Milo held his telepathic hold. “I know what you’ve been up too.” He released him.

  Roth took in a lengthy breath. “I’m okay. I really don’t know what happened. I couldn’t breathe.”

  ***

  In the lecture hall, Professor Faust graded papers.

  Marge entered and took a deep breath. She ambled down the aisle and stood in front of his desk.

  “One second… please.” Professor Faust continued grading papers.

  “Sorry Professor. Take your time.” Marge waited nervously and glanced over her shoulder. She needed his full attention before she spoke.

  He made his final mark, put his pen in his shirt pocket and looked up. “You’re early.”

  “Excuse me.”

  “Our appointment isn’t for two hours. Do you represent the Dimension Research Institute?”

  “I found your name in my husband's files. I need answers.”

  Professor Faust looked at Marge puzzled as he rose from his chair. “You are?”

  “May I offer my sincerest apology? I'm Marge Greenberg. Dr. Judas Greenberg is my husband.”

  A look of fear overtook the Professor as his eyes widened. A faint blush of red flustered his cheeks. “Does he know you’re here?”

  “Not at all. I came on my own. I trust you will maintain my confidentiality. He could kill us both.”

  “You’ve got my attention. What brings you here?”

  Marge pursed her lips and took in a deep breath.

  “Get on with it. I only have a few minutes before my students arrive.”

  “It's about Project Dimension.”

  “How do you know about that?”

  “I worked on the initial blueprint before you came on board.”

  “I thought Dr. Greenberg created it?”

  “There’s a lot you don’t understand Professor. And your ignorance is what will get you killed.”

  Several students entered the classroom. Marge’s throat closed as she looked over her shoulder.

  “Ms. Greenberg, would you like to make an appointment?”

  Marge turned, her head low as she strode fast to the door. Her weak ankle twisted which slowed her pace.

  Professor Faust bolted to stop Marge, but Jon engaged him. “Professor, I need an appointment this afternoon
to discuss my term paper.”

  “Not now.” The professor pushed around him. He increased his stride toward the exit and collided into Dr. Angela.

  “Going somewhere Professor?”

  “As a matter of fact, I’m meeting my guest lecturer at the front office.”

  “I’ll walk with you. There’s a lot we must discuss.”

  ***

  Blaze scrutinized her father and Professor Faust as they walked toward the front office. “I swear I hate him. What’s he doing here?”

  Mag mystified bit her lower lip. “Better question, what’s he doing with Professor Faust?”

  Jenni glanced at her watch. “Ask him yourself, it’s time for class.”

  Blaze chuckled. “Well it looks like he’s the one who will be late now.”

  The girls headed toward the lecture hall.

  Milo looked over at the Angela limousine. Very interesting.

  Dr. Angela’s demeanor and authoritative posture annoyed Professor Faust. “I want you back at Dimension Global.”

  Professor Faust increased his gait toward the main campus office. “I have zero interest in returning.”

  “I’m certain with a monetary initiative I could persuade you. You can’t possibly make enough as a professor to support your family.”

  “We’re doing fine, thank you.”

  “We have Project Dimension almost working. There’s only one crucial component preventing the final launch and I believe you’re the man for the job.”

  “What you’re saying is you can’t get it operational without the help of Dr. Greenberg.”

  “We’re not on speaking terms.”

  “Maybe if you wouldn’t have stolen his invention, Judas would accommodate your needs. Sounds like this is your problem and not mine.” Professor Faust stopped. “Look, I appreciate the offer, but I love what I do here. Do yourself and your company a favor. Offer Dr. Greenberg a part in your company and give the man what he deserves. You have nothing without his knowledge and expertise. I’m not interested.”

  “Will five million dollars get you interested?”

  Professor Faust pondered the moment while Dr. Angela pursed his lips and clenched his jaw.

  “Think carefully professor. That is a life changing amount. You can retire and have the lifestyle you always desired. I’ll even throw in a private tropical island you always dreamed of owning when you retired.”

  “The way I see it, you’re desperate. You think Dr. Greenberg will recreate it first, and that pisses you off. I’m onto your games. I experienced what you’re about and I want no part of it again. Now please leave. I see my guest speaker and I have a class to teach.”

  “This isn’t over Professor.” Dr. Angela turned and headed for the Genetic Research lab.

  Professor Faust waved at Dr. Wright. “Liz, glad you could make it.”

  Dr. Elizabeth Wright, a very polished woman radiated elegance. She wore a red tailored Neiman Marcus coat dress which showcased her delicate waist. The petal sleeves and her raven silk hair past her shoulders moved as she sauntered toward him. Her black Christian Louboutin pump high heels showcased by red soles and the matching black clutch were the perfect accessories to her Milan runway look. “My pleasure. It’s always a delight to visit a mentor of mine and talk to your classes.”

  “This way.”

  They headed toward the lecture hall. “You’re very much in demand. I’m very grateful. I must warn you, I have an inquisitive group of students.”

  Thirty students gathered in silent prayer as Dr. Wright and Professor Faust passed the memorial site. Dr. Wright exhaled hard and heavy. “Such a shame and waste.” She reflected on the memorial. “It doesn’t seem that long ago I did the same thing. I have empathy for what the victims and their families experienced at the hands of this sadist.” Chills trickled throughout her spine.

  “I’m certain of that, Liz. How are you handling it?”

  “Are you asking as a therapist or as my friend?”

  “Both.”

  ***

  The Three Musketeers sat on the fifth row. Roth sat behind them in the standing room only lecture hall.

  Blaze wiggled in her chair. “Anyone of us could be next.” She gulped and took a deep breath.

  Mag shivered at the thought. “I can’t even think about that. I plan on being extremely careful.”

  Jenni patted Mag’s back. “I agree. The last thing I want is to be near a serial killer.”

  Roth retrieved his D-Pad.

  Blaze took notice of Roth’s action. “You’re such a kiss ass.”

  “Whatever you say. I have a real interest in the topic. I’ve been looking forward to this lecture all semester.”

  Mag pointed to the entrance. “Don’t look now, but our guest speaker has arrived.”

  Professor Faust and Dr. Wright trooped between the aisles toward the stage as everyone gawked at the woman in red. He escorted her onto the stage. “Please take a seat while I introduce you.”

  “Thank you, Professor.” Liz sat and placed her purse onto the table, grabbed a bottled water and took a drink. She removed a stack of three by five-inch index cards from her purse and ordered them on her lap.

  A sudden hush rippled in the hall as Professor Faust stepped to the podium. “By now, you have likely heard the news that one of your classmates, Cristi Jewell, is missing. There’s no reason to believe she is or will be the next victim of the Sorority serial killer. However, Loyola’s administration believes it is paramount that our students are vigilant to remain safe; especially members of Alpha Gamma Kappa.”

  Blaze stood to address her classmates. “Can we take a moment of silence on behalf of Frances and the other victims?”

  “That would be acceptable Blaze. Everyone, please stand and take a moment to either pray or do what you do to honor the dead.”

  Silenced prevailed for one minute.

  Blaze, Mag and Jenni looked at each other very concerned. Blaze leaned over to Mag. “I knew she hadn’t shown up for class, but now she’s missing. What the hell? To top it off, her phone is disconnected.”

  Roth shushed her.

  Professor Faust ended the tribute. “Thank you for honoring those who have died. Let’s hope there isn’t another.”

  Roth wiggled and scooted back into his chair. Well, maybe not. If I don’t have her, who does?

  “Thank you for rearranging your schedules attend today’s lecture. You won’t be disappointed. In fact, I believe Dr. Wright will captivate you with the information she shares. Without further delay, I want to introduce you to our guest speaker, Dr. Elizabeth Wright. She is the author of The New York Time’s best seller, Living Beyond Life.” Professor Faust lifted her book. “This book details her near death experience and how her life changed since that time. She is also our country’s leading researcher on this topic and one of the top forensic psychologists on serial killers.”

  Professor Faust raised Liz’s second book. “Red Lettenberg: The Mind’s Eye Serial Killer is another best seller that chronicles his life and shows why Dr. Wright is the world’s expert on him, his signature and his motive. She spent thousands of hours interviewing him as the leading serial killer consultant for the FBI. It privileges Loyola University to have her here with us today. Please welcome Liz... I mean Dr. Elizabeth Wright.”

  The class applauded and gave Dr. Wright a standing ovation as she approached the lectern. She settled and cleared her throat. The lecture hall remained silent. “Thank you for having me. It’s rare that I speak in public about my experience. However, Professor Faust is a dear friend, a colleague and my mentor. I have moved to New Orleans to help apprehend the Sorority serial killer. Please find it assuring that the FBI and the New Orleans Police Department have joined task forces to bring a swift resolution and peace to our community.” Dr. Wright coughed and cleared her throat.

  Professor Faust quickly brought her a bottle of water and returned to stage left.

  She took a sip as the lecture hall remained
still and quiet and then continued her presentation. “The fear that comes with having a serial killer at large is overwhelming. I was twelve when the Mind’s Eye serial killer, or should I say, when they captured Red Lettenberg. I remember the news reports, the precautions and the curfew imposed in our community. It was a dangerous time for all as the Mind’s Eye serial killer, unlike others, didn’t conform to a standard victimology. His victims came from every social class, different races, both male and female and from all ages. The FBI believed I was one of his intended victims because one of his signatures included murdering siblings or friends no matter the age.” Dr. Wright unnerved by her memories sipped her water and took a comforting deep breath.

  “That’s why I lived in fear. The situation filled me with remorse for the other victims as one was my friend’s sister. It was at that moment I chose my career as a forensic psychologist. Although young, I had to do something about serial killers and had to stop them. I learned everything concerning any serial killer. I studied the widow Belle Gunness known as Lady Bluebeard, Ed Gein the man who inspired Psycho, Harold Shipman, whose charm proved lethal and Donald Leroy Evans who killed over ninety women and children at a public park or a rest area. I studied the most infamous serial killers. I left no stone unturned as I studied relentlessly the Zodiac Killer and tried to decipher his coded messages. Charles Manson, John Wayne Gacy, Jeffrey Dahmer, Ted Bundy, the Craiglist Killer, and closer to home, Derrick Todd Lee from Baton Rouge and the Jeff Davis Eight in Jennings.” Liz’s eyes teared. She fought to hold them back.

  “Then, he abducted my friend. The FBI agreed Red Lettenberg, the Mind’s Eye serial killer kidnapped her. It was all over the news. I felt it was my time to put my knowledge to work. Remember, I was only twelve, but I took the position that if nobody else would capture him and save my friend, I had to do it. So, with no one knowing, I retraced my friend’s last day. I remembered she told me she planned to ride her bike on the levee. I started there. After about three hours, I found her. She was alive, but badly injured. Before she died, she told me Lettenberg had kidnapped her. For some odd reason he let her go free. Her story didn’t end there. He forced her to watch other victims being tortured and murdered. When she was freed, Red was torturing a man named Dennis. She raced to get help.”