Send Kris and Rob a Text Message!
The Angel of Death: The Chilling Case of Donald Harvey In the latest episode of Hitched 2 Homicide, we delve into the terrifying case of Donald Harvey, a man who went from hospital orderly to one of the most prolific serial killers in American history. With an estimated 70 victims, Harvey’s heinous crimes spanned hospitals in Ohio and Kentucky, earning him the chilling moniker, "The Angel of Death."
Who Was Donald Harvey?
Donald Harvey seemed like an ordinary hospital worker—quiet, unassuming, and polite. Born in Butler County, Ohio, in 1952, Harvey began his medical career in 1970 as an orderly at Marymount Hospital in London, Kentucky. Little did anyone know, this seemingly gentle man would soon embark on a 17-year killing spree that would leave a trail of devastation.
The Killing Spree Begins
Harvey’s murder spree started just a few months after he began working at Marymount Hospital. He later claimed his first murder was an act of "mercy killing," but it quickly spiraled into a terrifying habit. Harvey was adept at exploiting his access to patients, using a variety of methods including poison, suffocation, and tampering with medical equipment.
As he moved between hospitals in Ohio and Kentucky, Harvey’s body count steadily increased. He took advantage of the hospital environment, where death is often expected, to carry out his crimes without raising suspicion.
How Did He Get Away with It for So Long?
You might be wondering how Harvey managed to evade detection for nearly two decades. Hospitals in the 1970s and 1980s had far fewer checks and balances, making it easier for someone like Harvey to slip through the cracks. Additionally, his victims’ deaths were often attributed to natural causes or underlying health conditions, allowing him to remain undetected for years.
The Arrest and Confession
In 1987, a hospital worker noticed a foul odor coming from a patient's body. This led to an autopsy that revealed traces of cyanide, which eventually pointed to Harvey. He confessed to killing 37 people but later suggested the number could be as high as 70.
Harvey’s trial resulted in a life sentence without the possibility of parole, bringing a long-awaited end to his reign of terror. But for the families of his victims, the damage was already done.
Listen to the Full Episode Now
For more chilling details, theories, and discussion, tune in to the latest episode of Hitched 2 Homicide. You won’t want to miss this deep dive into one of America’s most infamous medical murderers.
Sources used for this podcast
JOIN THE HITCHED 2 HOMICIDE IN-LAWS AND OUTLAWS
START KRIS CALVERT'S BOOKS TODAY FOR FREE
H2H WEBSITE
H2H on TWITTER
H2H on INSTA