10 Real-Life Crimes Inspired by Fictional Stories | Shocking True Crime Cases
Fictional stories are created to entertain, inform, or spark imagination. But sometimes, they inspire people to commit real-world crimes. Over the years, movies, TV shows, books, anime, and video games have influenced individuals to commit disturbing acts of violence. In these cases, fiction blurred with reality, with deadly outcomes. Below are ten real-life crimes that were shockingly inspired by fictional stories.
10. The “Scream” Copycat Murders (1998–2006)
The 1996 horror film Scream introduced the Ghostface killer and a violent murder style that influenced multiple real crimes. In France, a teenager wearing a Ghostface mask stabbed a friend over 40 times. In California, two teenage cousins killed their mother in hopes of funding their murder spree, planning to wear the same masks. In Idaho, two teens murdered Cassie Jo Stoddart while filming their plan, calling it their version of a “Scream” killing.
9. The “Dexter Killer” Who Wanted to Be a Vigilante (2010)
Inspired by the TV show Dexter, Canadian filmmaker Mark Twitchell created a kill room and lured a man under false pretenses before killing and dismembering him. He documented the murder in a file titled “SK Confessions” and admitted he wanted to become a real-life Dexter. Even after arrest, he showed no remorse and planned to continue his killing spree.
8. The “Clockwork Orange” Attack in England (1973)
Stanley Kubrick’s A Clockwork Orange shocked viewers with its violent scenes. In England, a teen attacked a homeless man while singing “Singin’ in the Rain,” mirroring the movie. Other attacks involved gangs dressed as the film’s characters. Kubrick pulled the movie from UK cinemas, and it remained banned until 2000 due to copycat violence.
7. The “Natural Born Killers” Crime Spree (1994–2000s)
Oliver Stone’s Natural Born Killers inspired a wave of crimes. Teenagers Sarah Edmondson and Benjamin Darras killed a businessman and injured another, copying the film. The Columbine shooters were also reportedly influenced by the movie, with references found in journals. Lawsuits were filed against the film’s studio, blaming the glorification of violence.
6. The “Fight Club” Underground Bombing Attempts (2009)
Fight Club became iconic for its anti-establishment messages. In 2009, 17-year-old Kyle Shaw bombed a Starbucks in New York, attempting his version of “Project Mayhem.” Underground fight rings and acts of vandalism linked to the movie have surfaced worldwide, showing how its themes were misinterpreted by some viewers.
5. The “Slender Man” Stabbing (2014)
Slender Man, a fictional internet character, led two 12-year-olds in Wisconsin to stab their friend 19 times as a “sacrifice.” They believed it would allow them to join Slender Man in his forest mansion. The victim survived, but the case raised global concern about how fictional online stories can impact impressionable minds.
4. The “Death Note” Copycat Killings (2007–2010s)
The anime Death Note features a notebook that kills anyone whose name is written in it. In Belgium, a corpse was found with notes signed “Kira,” mimicking the anime. Similar incidents occurred globally, including a teen in the U.S. who wrote a kill list of classmates. Schools banned the series due to safety concerns.
3. The “Joker” Inspired Crimes (2012–2019)
The Joker character has influenced real crimes, most notably the 2012 Aurora shooting where the gunman reportedly called himself “The Joker.” After the 2019 Joker film, law enforcement feared further violence. The character’s chaotic nature has been linked to several violent acts and copycats around the world.
2. The “Breaking Bad” Imitation Crimes (2010s–Present)
Breaking Bad inspired several people to make meth or commit related crimes. A teacher in Montana and a professor in New York both ran meth labs, citing the show. One man even dissolved a body in acid, just like in the series. Despite its anti-hero message, many misunderstood the show as a guide to success through crime.
1. The “Jigsaw” Killer Who Modeled Murders After Saw (2004–2010s)
The Saw movie series revolves around deadly traps and tests. In Utah, two teens set up booby traps to harm victims. In the UK, a man recreated Jigsaw’s torture games with a kidnapped woman. Canada faced threats of a real-life Saw game, leading to a major investigation. The franchise was banned in some countries due to these disturbing links.
Conclusion
These cases show how fiction can sometimes influence dangerous actions. While most people enjoy stories as entertainment, some individuals take them too far, using them as blueprints for violence. It’s important to be aware of how media impacts behavior—especially in vulnerable or impressionable minds.
FAQs
Q1: Can movies and TV shows really influence criminal behavior?
Yes, though rare, some individuals have cited fictional stories as direct inspiration for their crimes.
Q2: Were any of the fictional creators held legally responsible?
In most cases, no. Lawsuits were filed, but courts generally ruled in favor of free speech protections.
Q3: Is Death Note banned in some countries?
Yes, certain schools and regions have banned the anime due to concerns about violent behavior and disturbing fan activity.
Q4: Why was A Clockwork Orange banned in the UK?
It was voluntarily withdrawn by the director after a series of violent crimes were linked to the film.
Q5: What can be done to prevent fiction-inspired crimes?
Awareness, mental health support, media literacy, and parental monitoring are key steps in prevention.
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