Psychos, Killers, and Victims Tour

If you’re intrigued by true crime stories or enjoy exploring the darker corners of a city’s past, the Psychos, Killers, and Victims Tour in Houston promises an unsettling but fascinating experience. This 5-hour journey takes you through various infamous crime scenes, cult landmarks, and locations tied to some of the most notorious individuals in the city’s history.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on real stories and sites that have shaped Houston’s grim reputation. You’ll hear about murders spanning from the 1960s to more recent cases, and learn how certain individuals became part of the city’s macabre lore. From cult leaders to serial killers, this tour offers a raw, unfiltered look into the city’s most chilling moments.

Three things we love about this experience include the detailed storytelling from guides, the opportunity to see historic crime sites firsthand, and the value of the tour’s comprehensive itinerary. However, a possible drawback is that the tour’s content can be quite intense and may not suit everyone’s taste or emotional comfort level. It’s best for those with a strong interest in true crime or history, rather than casual sightseeing.

This tour is a compelling choice if you want an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at Houston’s darker side. It’s ideal for crime buffs, history enthusiasts, or anyone curious about the stories behind these infamous sites.

Good To Know

• In-Depth Exploration: The tour covers a wide range of crime scenes, cult history, and notable murders in Houston.
• Authentic Storytelling: Guides share detailed anecdotes based on historical facts, making each stop more engaging.
• Convenient Logistics: Group discounts and a mobile ticket make it accessible and easy to join.
• Balanced Duration: At five hours, it’s long enough to cover comprehensive content without feeling rushed.
• Educational Value: It offers insight into criminal behaviors and the social history behind the crimes.
• Sensitive Content: Be aware the material can be disturbing; suitable for those comfortable with crime stories.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Londale Hotel

The tour kicks off outside the Londale Hotel, a rundown “flop house” where Ana Trujillo once lived. Known for her boast that she could kill someone with just her shoe, this site sets the tone for the dark stories ahead. We don’t enter, but the street view gives a sense of Houston’s less glamorous side. The guide might share details about Ana’s unsettling personality and her infamous boast, giving you a chilling start.

Stop 2: Discovery Green

Just a brief stop at Discovery Green, where the body of 16-year-old Sherry Lynn Strait was discovered in 1982. Her murder by Carl Eugene Watts, nicknamed “Coral,” highlights the city’s history with serial killers. Though no admission is needed here, the guide might discuss Watts’ disturbing crimes and the impact they had on Houston’s sense of safety.

Stop 3: 3000 Tierwester St

This house is linked to a tragic family murder in 2016, when Sheborah Latrice Thomas drowned her children and subsequently hid their bodies under a neighbor’s house. It’s a somber reminder of how personal the city’s dark stories can be. The stop is quick but impactful, with the guide recounting the details without sensationalism.

Stop 4: 3838 Arbor St

Here, we learn about Dr. Larry Schacht, who was involved in the Jonestown mass murder, poisoning over 900 people with Kool-Aid laced with cyanide. The connection to Houston’s history of cult activity is stark and educational. The house itself is unassuming, but the story’s weight is heavy.

Stop 5: 6909 Van Etten St

The home of Naomi Dominguez, who was murdered by Angel Maturino Resendiz, the “Railroad Killer.” Resendiz’s violent crimes across Texas are well-documented, and this stop reveals how even a quiet neighborhood can hide dark secrets.

Stop 6: The Parklane

A shocking event took place here in 2013, when Ana Trujillo stabbed her boyfriend to death with a high heel shoe. The guide discusses the bizarre nature of the crime, emphasizing the unpredictability of human behavior. It’s a stark example of how violence can erupt from seemingly normal situations.

Stop 7: 808 Colquitt St

This was the residence of Marshall Herff Applewhite, leader of the infamous Heaven’s Gate cult. His charismatic but deadly influence led to a mass suicide in 1997. The guide might mention Applewhite’s appeal to followers and how a charismatic personality can turn into a destructive force.

Stop 8: University of St. Thomas

The university’s history is intertwined with Applewhite’s past, where he was a music department chair. The site offers a chance to reflect on how influential figures can have complex legacies, and how a charismatic leader can inspire both admiration and tragedy.

Stop 9: 1325 W Pierce St

This is where Vernon Howell, later known as David Koresh of Waco fame, was raised. The guide shares insights into his early environment and how it shaped his later actions as a cult leader.

Stop 10: 1815 Driscoll St

A quiet neighborhood where police visited Fred and Edwina Rogers in 1965, raising questions about their well-being. Though seemingly mundane, this stop hints at the importance of local history and community stories.

Stop 11: 4258 Lehigh Ave

Resendiz’s violent act in 1998, when he murdered Dr. Claudia Benton Subiria, is highlighted here. The guide may discuss her professional background and how her case was part of a series of Resendiz’s brutal crimes.

Stop 12: 610 Allston St

The home of Mary Cerruti, an ordinary-sounding resident with a dark secret—she was involved in the lives of serial killers. The guide emphasizes how appearances can be deceiving.

Stop 13: 915 Columbia St

This is where Dean Corll, the “Candy Man,” lived and committed some of his murders. The guide recounts the grim details of his killing spree, which shocked Houston in the early 70s.

Stop 14: 502 W 22nd St

The site of Corll’s candy store, a chilling location where he lured victims. The guide might share stories of how Corll manipulated his environment to target vulnerable boys.

Stop 15: Helms Elementary School

This elementary school is linked to many of Corll’s victims. The contrast of a place of learning with its dark history leaves a haunting impression, especially knowing children from this school were involved.

Stop 16: Yale Street Grill

Finally, the tour ends with a visit to one of Houston’s oldest restaurants, where Corll supposedly picked up victims. It’s a stark reminder that evil can hide in plain sight, even in familiar places.

What You Can Expect from the Experience

The tour is designed to balance storytelling with site visits, prioritizing historical accuracy and sensitivity. You’ll be riding in a comfortable vehicle, with the guide providing detailed commentary at each stop. The group size is capped to ensure a more personal experience, and the entire journey is approximately five hours long—long enough to absorb the stories but not so lengthy that it becomes overwhelming.

Guide Insights: The guides, including those who run Houston Historical Tours, are well-versed in local history and crime stories. Past reviews mention that the storytelling is engaging, with some noting the stories are “disturbing but fascinating,” and that the guides are “knowledgeable and respectful.”

Timing & Logistics: The stops are brief—around 2 minutes each—except the final lunch stop at Yale Street Grill, which lasts about an hour. This break offers a chance to reflect, chat, or enjoy a meal at one of Houston’s oldest eateries, renowned for its historic ambiance.

Cost & Value: At $150 per person, the tour isn’t the cheapest option but is quite comprehensive. It covers many infamous sites and stories, providing a layered understanding of Houston’s criminal past. The inclusion of expert guides and private group access enhances the experience’s value.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for true crime aficionados, history buffs, or anyone curious about the darker stories lurking beneath Houston’s surface. It offers a rare opportunity to see crime scenes, learn about cult leaders, and understand how these stories have shaped the city.

If you’re sensitive to graphic content or easily disturbed by violent stories, this tour might not be for you. But if you’re eager to explore a different side of Houston—one filled with stories of human resilience, tragedy, and intrigue—you’ll find this tour captivating.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Due to the mature and sometimes disturbing content, it’s best suited for adults or older teens who can handle graphic crime stories.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 5 hours, including the commute, stops, and a lunch break.

Are admission tickets included?
No, the stops are mostly outdoor sites or private residences, and admission is not required or not included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation between sites is covered, typically in a private vehicle or small group setting.

Are the guides knowledgeable about Houston’s crime history?
Absolutely. Guides are experienced and provide in-depth commentary, often sharing insights beyond basic facts.

Is the tour suitable for public transportation?
It’s designed as a private tour, and the meeting point is at Houston City Hall, near public transit options.

Will I see typical tourist sights?
No, this tour focuses exclusively on crime-related sites and stories, offering a different perspective on Houston.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is on your own, with a recommended stop at Yale Street Grill, one of Houston’s oldest restaurants.

In brief, the Psychos, Killers, and Victims Tour offers an intense but insightful look into Houston’s darker history. It’s perfect for those who crave authentic stories and appreciate respectful storytelling about tough subjects. If you’re prepared for a compelling journey into the city’s criminal past, this tour might just be the highlight of your Houston visit.