forgotten female serial killer, with an interesting twist
Erzsébet Papp was born on January 28th in 1935 in Penészlek, Hungary
And not much about her early life is revealed. But she eventually became known as The Nicotine Killer.
What makes her interesting is the rarity of Nicotine used as murder weapon.
Also her petty motives for killing. For example One Victim for allegedly spreading rumors.
Also interesting is the twist in the end regarding her punishment.
Her first victim was a 5 year old child, and a victim of opportunity, cause she wanted to test the poison. Which is wicked in itself.
Her victims included:
- 5 year old Ilona Tarnóci, as experiment
- Her best friend Mrs. Fürtös, for spreading rumors
- Her Husband István Rostár, who abused her when he was drunk
- Her sister Mrs. Ferenc Juhos after she was made sole heir of the family.
Because Erzsébet has been disowned, by allegedly bringing shame on the family.
Her Downfall only came after she accidentally placed her poisoned Brandy Bottle on a liquor store shelf. And the store owner sold it to customers.
2 people drank from it but survived.
Authorities discovered the nicotine poison in the bottle and traced it to Erzsébet.
She was arrested and her victims bodies were exhumed. Initially she denied the killings but eventually broke down and confessed.
And here comes the final twist of this story.
She was charged with fourfold murder and found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment.
BUT ON APPEAL to the higher court the Curia.
SHE WAS RESENTENCED TO DEATH.
She was executed by hanging in Miskolc on January 23rd 1962.
And her Story lives on in almost unknown obscurity.