NAMING JACK THE RIPPER - AN INTERVIEW WITH RUSSELL EDWARDS

Russell Edwards, a British author and historian, gained attention in 2014 with his book Naming Jack the Ripper, where he controversially identified Aaron Kosminski, a Polish immigrant and original suspect, as the notorious Victorian serial killer. 

With the tenacity and passion of a true investigator, Edwards wove together strands of historical research, modern forensic science, and DNA analysis to support his theory. Despite scepticism from some experts, Edwards has remained steadfast in his belief that Kosminski was the killer. In February 2025, he announced that DNA evidence had definitively solved the case, confirming Kosminski’s identity as Jack the Ripper. This revelation has sparked calls for a new legal inquest, with descendants of both Kosminski and Ripper victim Catherine Eddowes advocating for closure. The renewed attention to the case highlights the ongoing debate over the evidence, but Edwards’ research has undeniably revived interest in this infamous historical mystery.

Yet, the tale does not end with mere science and deduction, for fate itself—working in its strange and unfathomable ways—led Edwards to an ally of a most unusual nature. Psychic medium MJ Dickson has also played a role in Edwards’ investigation, helping him explore a possible spiritual connection between himself, the victims, and the killer. Through a series of walking tours in Whitechapel, Dickson has provided numerous psychic insights, shedding light on the case and Edwards’ personal connection to it. As they walked the cobbled streets and shadowed alleys of Whitechapel, retracing the steps of both predator and prey, she uncovered eerie echoes of the past—messages that whispered of a connection deeper than mere curiosity, an inexplicable force that had drawn Edwards to this mystery with the insistence of destiny itself. Could these psychic impressions offer a possible explanation for his unwavering determination to solve the mystery? These revelations have not only deepened Edwards’ understanding of the case but also strengthened his resolve to bring closure to one of history’s most chilling unsolved crimes.

Whether through science or spirit, logic or intuition, Edwards’ journey has brought him to the precipice of revelation. The enigma of Jack the Ripper, long cloaked in fog and fear, now stands at the very brink of illumination, the secrets poised to be laid bare at last.

In this episode, Russell and MJ discuss how a particular item helped him solve this 137-year-old case as well as a few of the psychic impressions discovered during their tours through the streets of London. 

 

Book a Jack The Ripper Tour with Russell Edwards here:

www.thejacktherippertour.co.uk