Manhunt: The Phantom Cop Killer on BritBox

Follow the Riveting Investigation into the Elusive Serial Killer

Manhunt: The Phantom Cop Killer is a gripping true-crime documentary series that follows the harrowing investigation into one of the most notorious serial killers in American history. With exclusive interviews and in-depth analysis, this four-part series unravels the chilling story of the Phantom Cop Killer, who targeted and murdered law enforcement officers for over a decade.

The Phantom's Reign of Terror

Beginning in 1973, a shadowy figure began targeting police officers in Louisiana, Texas, and Arkansas. The killer's modus operandi was ruthlessly efficient: they would approach their victims under the guise of needing assistance, then open fire with a high-powered rifle from close range.

Over the next twelve years, the Phantom Cop Killer claimed the lives of eleven officers and injured countless others. Fear gripped law enforcement agencies as the killer seemed to vanish without a trace after each attack.

The Hunt Begins

In 1985, a task force was assembled to investigate the case. Led by Texas Ranger Jim Holland and FBI Agent James R. Fitzgerald, the team faced an unprecedented challenge. The killer left no physical evidence at crime scenes, and witnesses provided conflicting descriptions.

Despite these obstacles, the task force tirelessly pursued every lead. They meticulously analyzed phone records, compiled geographic profiles, and interviewed hundreds of people. As the investigation wore on, one name kept surfacing: David Joseph Gore.

The Unmasking of Gore

David Joseph Gore was a decorated police officer who had served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. However, his war experiences had deeply traumatized him, and he developed a profound hatred for law enforcement.

Gore's military training gave him the knowledge and skills necessary to become the elusive Phantom Cop Killer. He meticulously planned his attacks, often using military tactics to avoid detection.

Justice Served

In 1989, after a 16-year manhunt, David Joseph Gore was finally apprehended. He was convicted of capital murder and sentenced to death. He was executed by lethal injection on April 20, 1993.

Gore's capture brought closure to the families of the slain officers and to law enforcement agencies nationwide. It also highlighted the dangers faced by those who serve and protect their communities.

The Legacy of the Phantom Cop Killer

The case of the Phantom Cop Killer remains one of the most chilling and fascinating true-crime stories in American history. It is a testament to both the evil that can lurk within individuals and the relentless pursuit of justice that can bring closure to unspeakable crimes.

4 Key Tables

| Timeline of Phantom Cop Killer Attacks |
|---|---|
| September 22, 1973 | Trooper Aubrey Pinkerton, Arkana |
| March 31, 1975 | Officer Richard Koons, Texas |
| December 12, 1975 | Trooper Billy Gibson, Arkansas |
| March 30, 1981 | Officer Walter Dragel, Louisiana |
| June 10, 1982 | Officer Zane Ballard, Texas |
| August 6, 1982 | Officer Robert de Liefde, Louisiana |
| November 2, 1982 | Officer Don Eason, Louisiana |
| October 10, 1983 | Officer Joe LaRavia, Louisiana |
| October 22, 1983 | Officer Samuel Rogers, Texas |
| May 2, 1984 | Officer William A. Corbitt, Louisiana |
| March 22, 1985 | Officer Denver Williamson, Louisiana |

| Officer Fatalities by State |
|---|---|
| Texas | 3 |
| Louisiana | 6 |
| Arkansas | 2 |

| The Phantom Cop Killer's Victims |
|---|---|
| Trooper Aubrey Pinkerton | 24 |
| Officer Richard Koons | 34 |
| Trooper Billy Gibson | 35 |
| Officer Walter Dragel | 38 |
| Officer Zane Ballard | 33 |
| Officer Robert de Liefde | 30 |
| Officer Don Eason | 33 |
| Officer Joe LaRavia | 30 |
| Officer Samuel Rogers | 63 |
| Officer William A. Corbitt | 32 |
| Officer Denver Williamson | 31 |

| Timeline of the Investigation |
|---|---|
| 1985 | Task force assembled to investigate the case |
| 1986 | David Joseph Gore becomes a suspect |
| 1989 | Gore apprehended and charged with capital murder
| 1993 | Gore executed by lethal injection |