Stuff You Should Know SYSK’s Fall True Crime Playlist: The Hinterkaifeck Axe Murders
Sep 26, 2025
In 1922, a remote Bavarian farm became the haunting scene of a gruesome unsolved murder where six individuals were brutally killed. The unsettling events began with a maid quitting after hearing eerie noises, leading to mysterious footprints in the snow. When concerned neighbors investigated, they discovered a grisly crime scene and unanswered questions. Prime suspects emerged, including a neighbor with suspicious behavior and theories about a possible involvement of supernatural forces. This chilling mystery remains a captivating enigma in true crime history.
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Gruber Family Reputation And Isolation
- The Gruber family lived isolated on Hinterkaifeck farm with rumours of abuse and possible incest surrounding Andreas Gruber.
- Neighbors viewed Victoria favorably for her choir singing but distrusted the family socially and morally.
Creepy Pre-Murder Clues
- Strange signs before the murders included a maid quitting over 'ghosts', footprints to the house with none leaving, scratched lock and a mysterious newspaper.
- Those events created a growing atmosphere of dread and suggested someone was lurking on the property before the killings.
Last Known Day And Community Concern
- Maria Baumgartner started March 31, 1922 and that became the last confirmed day the Grubers were seen alive.
- Neighbors later noticed missed church, uncollected mail, and began to worry, prompting a welfare check.