(Article is in the Novel universe)
The Shrike is the self selected nickname of the perpetrator of a series of homicides. The victims were killed by forcefully breaking their necks from behind causing Atlanto-Occipital Dislocation (AOD) also known as internal decapitation. He chose the predatory bird as his nickname because its killing style is similar.
The killer used the dark web genetics website Dirty4 to purchase the details of women with the DRD4 gene which is thought to be linked to risk taking behavior. Having identified victims who would be more likely to have a one night stand with him, he would approach them, lure them back to their homes and murder them after intercourse (wearing a condom to avoid DNA evidence). He then staged secondary scenes to avoid detection including faking post mortem car accidents, accidental falls and suicides.
His crimes were linked by investigative reporter Jack McEvoy in 2020. The Shrike was able to escape apprehension initially but returned in an attempt to abduct McEvoy. McEvoy realized The Shrike was hiding in his car and as The Shrike attempted to break his neck, McEvoy intentionally crashed the vehicle causing The Shrike to be thrown out of the vehicle where he was crushed and killed as the vehicle rolled over.
Victims[]
Murders:
- Jamie Flynn
- Charlotte Taggart
- Mallory Yates
- Christina Portrero
- Marshall Hammond
- Sanford Tolan
- Roger Vogel
- Three other females linked by the FBI
- One male inmate linked by the FBI
Attempted murder:
- Gwyneth Rice
- Jack McEvoy
Appearances[]
- Fair Warning (2020)