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Historians Name Bargeman James Crick as Likely 'Thames Torso' Killer in BBC Reinvestigation

Researchers cite court records alongside a pause in river killings during his eight-and-a-half years in prison.

Overview

  • Lucy Worsley’s BBC series, drawing on Sarah Bax Horton’s archival work, presents a 'very compelling' case pointing to James Crick.
  • Crick, a violent bargeman with access to the Thames, was convicted in 1889 after Sarah Warburton’s testimony and served part of a 15‑year term.
  • The torso murders on London’s waterways ceased while Crick was incarcerated, with a possible linked case noted after his release in 1902.
  • An earlier 1889 accusation by Jessie Miller was dismissed, highlighting how disbelief of vulnerable women hindered earlier action.
  • Experts distinguish the dismemberment murders from Jack the Ripper’s crimes, with forensic pathologist Dr Marie Cassidy arguing two killers operated concurrently.