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

Stuff You Should Know
The Breakfast Club

The Breakfast Club

The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!

Crime Junkie

Crime Junkie

Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.

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

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.