All Episodes

May 14, 2025 48 mins

Truth behind the Crime: Wendy Savino Special guest Frank and Maria DeGennaro


Wendy Savino is a remarkable woman whose life encompasses both a harrowing encounter with a notorious serial killer and a rich history in the performing arts.



🎯 Claimed to be the first Victim of the “Son of Sam” Killer


Despite recent claims by the NYPD, there is still significant doubt that Wendy Savino was actually shot by David Berkowitz, the so-called “Son of Sam.” While the department now retroactively links her 1976 shooting to Berkowitz, it is important to note that he has consistently denied any involvement in her case. Furthermore, for nearly five decades, Savino’s attack was never officially connected to the Son of Sam shootings, which followed a distinct pattern and modus operandi.


Savino’s shooting took place months before the first widely acknowledged Son of Sam attack. The circumstances surrounding her case — including the location, victim profile, and ballistic evidence — do not clearly align with the other known Berkowitz crimes. Relying on decades-old files and newly surfaced accounts to revise history raises concerns about the accuracy of this reclassification.


Until definitive, verifiable evidence emerges — beyond speculation and disputed documents — Wendy Savino’s case should remain separate from the confirmed Son of Sam incidents.




🎪 Life as a Trapeze Artist and Contortionist


Before her move to the United States, Wendy Savino had a vibrant career as a trapeze artist and contortionist in England. Beginning her performance career in Dartford, she toured the UK by age 15 and performed alongside celebrities like Petula Clark. She credits her physical strength and discipline from her acrobatic background with helping her survive the brutal attack .



📚 Community Engagement


In her later years, Wendy Savino has been involved with the Pequot Library in Fairfield, Connecticut, serving at the circulation desk and volunteering in communications. She speaks fondly of the warm and friendly staff, expressing enjoyment in her weekly volunteer work .



Wendy Savino’s story is one of resilience and strength, spanning from the circus rings of England to surviving a serial killer’s attack, and continuing to contribute positively to her community.


#TrueCrimeCommunity #TrueCrimeAddict#TrueCrimeJunkie #MurderMystery#ColdCase #UnsolvedMystery #SerialKiller

#TrueCrimePodcast

Mark as Played

Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

Dateline NBC

Dateline NBC

Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

Are You A Charlotte?

Are You A Charlotte?

In 1997, actress Kristin Davis’ life was forever changed when she took on the role of Charlotte York in Sex and the City. As we watched Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte navigate relationships in NYC, the show helped push once unacceptable conversation topics out of the shadows and altered the narrative around women and sex. We all saw ourselves in them as they searched for fulfillment in life, sex and friendships. Now, Kristin Davis wants to connect with you, the fans, and share untold stories and all the behind the scenes. Together, with Kristin and special guests, what will begin with Sex and the City will evolve into talks about themes that are still so relevant today. "Are you a Charlotte?" is much more than just rewatching this beloved show, it brings the past and the present together as we talk with heart, humor and of course some optimism.

Stuff You Should Know

Stuff You Should Know

If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.