Have you ever wondered where one of the most notorious serial killers in American history, Gary Ridgway, once called home? The Gary Ridgway House in Auburn, Washington, is a house that, despite its ordinary appearance, holds a dark and sinister history. Let’s delve into the life of Gary Ridgway and take a tour of his former residence.
Who is Gary Ridgway?
Gary Leon Ridgway, born on February 18, 1949, in Salt Lake City, Utah, is known as the “Green River Killer.” He is one of the most prolific serial killers in American history, convicted of killing 49 women, although he confessed to killing up to 90. Ridgway’s life is a stark contrast between his mundane suburban existence and the horrific crimes he committed.
Gary Ridgway Known Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth | February 18, 1949 |
| Birthplace | Salt Lake City, Utah |
| Education | High school diploma, attended Washington State University |
| Career | Truck painter at Kenworth Truck Company |
| Marriages | Married three times: Claudia Kraig (1970-1972), Marcia Winslow (1973-1981), Judith Mawson (1982-present) |
| Children | One son, Matthew Ridgway |
| Crimes | Convicted of 49 murders, confessed to up to 90 |
| Arrest and Conviction | Arrested in 2001, and convicted in 2003 |
| Current Status | Serving life without parole at Washington State Penitentiary |
Where Does Gary Ridgway Live Now?
Gary Ridgway is currently incarcerated at the Washington State Penitentiary in Walla Walla, Washington. However, before his arrest and conviction, he lived in Auburn, Washington, a city located about 30 miles southeast of Seattle.
Gary Ridgway House
The Gary Ridgway House in Auburn, Washington, is a modest suburban home that belies the dark history of its former occupant. Here’s an overview of this house:
Features of Gary Ridgway House
The Gary Ridgway House is a typical suburban home with the following features:
- Location: The house is situated in a quiet residential neighbourhood in Auburn, Washington.
- Property Details: The property is relatively small, with a total area of around 1,500 square feet.
- Architectural Style: The house is built in a traditional single-story style common in suburban areas.
- Outdoor Space: The property includes a small backyard with a patio area and some landscaping.
Personal House Touches
Although there is limited information on specific personal touches Gary Ridgway made to the house, here are some general improvements that might have been typical for a homeowner like him:
- Home Office: Ridgway might have had a small home office for managing his personal affairs and hobbies.
- Garden: He could have maintained a small garden in the backyard, which was a common activity for many suburban homeowners.
- Private Patio: A private patio area would have been useful for outdoor dining and relaxation.
- Security Enhancements: Given his later notoriety, it’s possible he added some security features such as locks or alarms.
- Family Room: The house likely had a family room where Ridgway spent time with his family.
House Amenities
Here are some of the amenities that the Gary Ridgway House might have included:
Indoor Amenities:
- Living Room: A spacious living room with a fireplace and large windows.
- Kitchen: A fully equipped kitchen with standard appliances.
- Bedrooms: Three to four bedrooms, each with its own closet space.
- Bathrooms: Two bathrooms, including a master bathroom with a shower and bathtub.
- Home Office: A small room for working or managing personal affairs.
Outdoor Amenities:
- Backyard Patio: A small patio area perfect for outdoor dining and relaxation.
- Garden: A small garden with some landscaping and possibly a few trees.
- Parking: A private driveway with enough space for two vehicles.
- Neighbourhood Park: Access to a nearby park for walking and outdoor activities.
- Community Pool: Possibly access to a community pool or other local amenities.
Neighbourhood Area
The neighbourhood where the Gary Ridgway House is located is a quiet and family-friendly area in Auburn, Washington. Here are some details about the area:
- Location: The house is situated in a residential area close to local amenities such as grocery stores, schools, and community parks.
- Community: The community is known for its friendly residents and a strong sense of neighbourhood camaraderie.
- Accessibility: The area is conveniently located near major roads, making it easy to commute to nearby cities like Seattle and Tacoma.
- Local Attractions: The house is not far from local attractions such as the Auburn Valley State Park and the White River Amphitheatre.
Gary Ridgway Houses Portfolio
Gary Ridgway has had several homes throughout his life, each reflecting different stages of his personal and family life.
- Childhood Home: Ridgway grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah, in a family home that was filled with the challenges and experiences of his early life.
- Previous Homes: Before moving to Auburn, Ridgway lived in other parts of Washington State, including the Seattle area.
- Current Residence: Since his arrest and conviction, Ridgway has been incarcerated at the Washington State Penitentiary.
Conclusion
The Gary Ridgway House in Auburn, Washington, is a house that, despite its ordinary appearance, holds a dark and sinister history. While the house itself is modest and unassuming, it serves as a reminder of the contrast between the mundane lives of serial killers and the horrific crimes they commit. Whether you’re interested in true crime stories or just want to understand the life of one of America’s most notorious serial killers, the Gary Ridgway House is a fascinating yet sombre topic.