FBI Joins Search of Suspected Serial Killer's Philadelphia Home

Federal agents in hazmat suits returned Monday to the Philadelphia home of Raymond 'RC' Horsch, a deceased adult film maker and suspected serial killer, to aid in an extensive search for evidence related to the disappearances of seven women. Horsch, who died last year at age 82, once described himself in an interview as a "sociopath."

Forensic investigators are combing through the two-story brick house in the city's Olney neighborhood, where authorities have uncovered over a million images and videos. These digital materials allegedly depict sex, drug use, and at least one snuff film that Horsch claimed to have created.

Authorities have identified at least 58 alleged victims in the evidence, with at least five women in the videos appearing lifeless or unconscious. Among those believed to be connected to the home are Gabrielle Amarando, Maribel Fresses, and Nicole Fusaro, who went missing years ago. Horsch's ex-wife, Blair Tonzelli, also remains missing.

No bodies have been recovered from the house on West Chew Avenue. Investigators are meticulously searching the flooring, drywall, and plaster for any evidence that may link Horsch to suspected crimes. Pieces of the home's interior have already been removed for analysis. On Tuesday, investigators planned to use luminol, a chemical that can detect invisible traces of blood, and heavy equipment is scheduled to be brought in for excavation later in October.

Horsch was known for his disturbing videos and photographs, which he claimed were a form of artistic expression. In a 2014 interview with WHYY's Peter Crimmins, he stated, "Basically I'm a sociopath, always have been and it was a nice way to express myself." He noted that his work explored themes that had led other filmmakers to prison, but he had not been arrested for his own films, attributing this to their obscurity.

Horsch had a history of legal issues, including convictions for drug and firearm crimes, and counterfeiting currency. He had also worked on a photography project involving women struggling with drug addiction. In a semi-autobiographical novel, Horsch detailed a fictional murder and dismemberment, describing the disposal of a body using lye. He also authored a manifesto that ranted about racism and climate change, referring to humans as an "insignificant life form."

The investigation into Horsch was prompted by a traffic stop in June involving his son, Eugene Horsch. A woman in the vehicle with Eugene provided identification belonging to Blair Tonzelli, who had been reported missing in 2023. This discovery led authorities to search Eugene's and his father's residence, where the extensive digital evidence and other items, including illegal firearms and five urns containing cremated remains, were found.

Police have identified that ten women seen in the collected media overdosed and were found in various locations across Philadelphia. Another 16 alleged victims were found alive but were uncooperative with investigators. Authorities are attempting to contact 25 additional identified victims.

Eugene Horsch is currently in custody on drug and gun charges. Neighbors have expressed a desire for the city to demolish the house once the investigation concludes.