Born: September 6, 1935 — New York, NY
The Early Life of a Killer
Norman Roye was born on September 6, 1935, in New York City. Raised by his grandmother after losing both parents at a young age, Roye’s troubled childhood included petty crimes and reform-school placement. By his late teens, after being released, he began a murderous spree that would terrorize Upper Manhattan in 1954.
Crimes of a Young Strangler
During a chilling rampage, Roye strangled and raped three women—all within a short time in Harlem. His escalating violence and disturbing actions earned him the nickname “The Dreaded Strangler.” Despite the brutality of his crimes, Roye was apprehended swiftly.
Arrest and Execution
Roye’s trial concluded with a swift conviction for first-degree murder. Sentenced to death, he was executed by electric chair at Sing Sing Prison on January 19, 1956—making him one of the youngest U.S. serial killers to be executed.
Why Roye Still Chills Us
Roye’s crimes are haunting not just for their brutality but for his youth. He was barely 19 when he started his killing spree and just 20 at his death. September 6 represents both his entry into life and the wrongful path he chose. His short but horrific legacy still shocks—and compels us to ask: What made this young man succumb to such darkness?
Reflective Question
Today—on the anniversary of his birth—what do you think can push a young person from a troubled childhood to acts of extreme violence? Is it environment, trauma, mental illness—or something more uncontrollable?
Add comment
Comments