FBI Joins Search of Suspected Serial Killer's Philadelphia 'House of Horrors'
Federal agents are combing the property of the late Raymond 'RC' Horsch, who allegedly created snuff films and is linked to seven missing women.
Federal agents in hazmat suits have joined the extensive search of the Philadelphia home of Raymond 'RC' Horsch, a deceased adult film maker suspected of serial killings. The investigation is focused on Horsch's property, described as a 'house of horrors,' where authorities believe evidence may exist connecting him to the disappearance of at least seven women.
Forensic investigators were seen on Monday meticulously examining the two-story brick house in the Olney neighborhood. Authorities have uncovered over a million images and videos from the residence that allegedly depict sex, drug use, and what is described as at least one snuff film Horsch claimed to have created due to his self-identified 'sociopathic' nature. Police have identified at least 58 potential victims within this digital evidence, with at least five women appearing lifeless or unconscious in the footage.
Among the identified potential victims are Gabrielle Amarando, Maribel Fresses, and Nicole Fusaro, who had been reported missing years prior. Horsch's ex-wife, Amy McHale, and another woman associated with him, Blair Tonzelli, are also among the missing.
Despite the extensive digital evidence, no bodies have been recovered from the West Chew Avenue home. Investigators are reportedly searching flooring, drywall, and plaster for any trace evidence. Pieces of the home's interior have already been removed for analysis, and agents were observed removing containers and furniture from the property on Monday.
The search is expected to continue with luminol application to detect invisible blood traces. Heavy equipment is slated to be brought in next week for excavation of the property. Neighbors have expressed a desire for the house to be demolished once the investigation concludes.
Horsch, who died last year at 82, was known for his controversial videos and photographs. In a 2014 interview with WHYY's Peter Crimmins, Horsch described himself as a 'sociopath' and stated his work was a way to express himself, likening it to photographers documenting societal issues.
He had a history of legal troubles, including convictions for drug and firearm offenses, and counterfeiting currency, for which he served time in federal prison. His artistic endeavors reportedly focused on explicit photography involving women struggling with drug addiction.
The investigation was reportedly initiated in June following a traffic stop involving Horsch's son, Eugene. During the stop, identification found in the vehicle belonged to Blair Tonzelli, who had been reported missing. This discovery prompted a search of Eugene and Raymond Horsch's residence, leading to the findings of the digital evidence.
During the search of the home, police also discovered an illegal firearm, ammunition, chemicals, a fake FBI badge, a marijuana growing operation, and five urns containing cremated remains. Authorities have learned that ten women depicted in the videos and photos died from overdoses, with their bodies found in various locations across Philadelphia. Sixteen other alleged victims have been located alive but have been unwilling to cooperate with investigators.
Eugene Horsch is currently in custody on drug and gun charges. Neighbors have voiced their desire for the property to be demolished due to the disturbing nature of the crimes associated with it.