The ongoing story of serial killings in Phoenix has been carried by news media around the country, feeding a complex fascination many people have with such senseless, violent crimes. The "Baseline Killer" has raped, robbed and killed victims since August. The "Serial Shooter" is believed to be responsible for 34 random shootings since May 2005. Media experts and academics say people follow serial-killer stories for several reasons. Many are afraid of becoming targets. Serial-killer stories capture audiences through classic literary elements, with villains and heroes and victims. And some are intrigued by an almost forbidden interest in evil. ...... Serial-killer stories are often followed because they unravel tales of suspense. ... The oddities and bizarre nature of serial killers also play into American culture. True-crime cases are often popularized into novels, movies and documentaries. Poynter Institute faculty member Chip Scanlan said serial killers fit into popular genres: horror, true crime, mysteries, detective stories. "Although these are real-life and horrific stories, at the same time, they fit into formulas that people enjoy reading," he said.More of this article...Search Google News for more quotes by Chip Scanlan...
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