During a four-month killing spree in 1974 Knowles murdered at least 18 people across multiple states, leaving behind a trail of bloodshed and heartbreak. His moniker came not only from his dashing good looks but also from his ability to charm his victims before committing his heinous crimes. 

Paul John Knowles was born on April 17, 1946, in Orlando, Florida. His upbringing was full of neglect, poverty, and instability. Placed in foster care at a young age, Knowles had a childhood that lacked love and security. By his teenage years he had already developed a pattern of criminal behavior, beginning with petty thefts and escalating to more serious offenses.

Knowles’ early brushes with the law landed him in and out of juvenile detention centers. These institutions did little to rehabilitate him instead hardening his resolve and teaching him how to manipulate those around him. It was during these formative years that he began to hone the charm and charisma that would later become his most dangerous weapons.

From Petty Offender to Cold-Blooded Killer

Paul Knowles’ transition from petty criminal to serial killer began slowly in the early 1970s. After serving time for a variety of offenses, including burglary and theft, Knowles found himself in prison in Florida. It was during this time that he began corresponding with Angela Covic, a California-based divorcee. Their correspondence blossomed into a romantic relationship and Covic eventually agreed to marry Knowles upon his release.

However their romance quickly unraveled. Upon meeting Knowles in person, Covic became uneasy and called off the engagement. This rejection reportedly pushed Knowles over the edge, setting him on a murderous path. Shortly after their breakup, he escaped from custody and went on a killing spree that would span multiple states and claim numerous lives.

Paul Knowles’ killing spree began in July 1974 and lasted until November of that same year. His victims ranged in age, gender, and background, with no clear pattern to his selection process. This randomness made him all the more terrifying, as no one could predict where or when he would strike next.

– July 1974: Knowles began his spree by murdering Alice Curtis, a 65-year-old woman in Jacksonville, Florida. He strangled her and stole her car, which he used to flee the scene. This was the beginning of his deadly rampage.

– August 1974: Knowles continued his spree, murdering teenage hitchhikers Lillian and Mylette Anderson. He later confessed to killing the sisters but never revealed their burial site.

– September 1974: His crimes escalated as he traveled across Georgia, murdering Kathy Pierce in her home while her three-year-old son was present. Knowles spared the child, a rare moment of mercy in an otherwise brutal spree.

– October 1974: In a particularly disgusting act, Knowles murdered businessman William Bates and dumped his body in the woods. He also abducted and killed two women, Evelyn and Dannie Goza, during this period.

Throughout his spree Knowles showed zero remorse. He killed indiscriminately, using strangulation, stabbing, and shooting as his methods. His victims ranged from elderly women to young children. The dude was a pure psychopath. 

The Capture

Knowles’ came to an end in November 1974. After a high-speed car chase in Georgia, he was apprehended by law enforcement. During his interrogation he confessed to 35 murders although only 18 were ever confirmed. His confessions were chillingly detailed, demonstrating a keen memory for his crimes and a complete lack of empathy for his victims.

Knowles’ charm and charisma were evident even in captivity. He reportedly flirted with female journalists and maintained a cocky, unrepentant demeanor. His ability to manipulate those around him showed the dangerous combination of his good looks and sociopathic tendencies.

Paul Knowles’ life came to a sudden end on December 18, 1974 while he was being transported by police in Georgia. According to official reports, Knowles attempted to escape, grabbing an officer’s gun in the process. In the ensuing struggle, he was shot and killed by law enforcement.

The circumstances surrounding his death have been the subject of speculation. Some believe the police deliberately killed Knowles to prevent him from escaping or to silence him before he could implicate others in his crimes. Whatever the truth his death brought a violent end to a life defined by violence.

Paul John Knowles’ brief but deadly killing spree was horrible. His ability to charm and manipulate coupled with his disregard for human life made him one of the most dangerous predators of his time.