Joseph Gerard Christopher, commonly referred to as the ".22-Caliber Killer" or the "Midtown Slasher," was an infamous American serial/spree killer. His crimes, which spanned a five-month period between 1980 and 1981, shocked and horrified the nation, both for their brutality and their racially targeted nature. Christopher's actions not only brought to light serious issues regarding mental health and racial violence but also sparked significant discussions about law enforcement's response to serial killings.

Early Life and Background

Joseph Gerard Christopher was born into a context that did not immediately suggest his future heinous actions. Little is publicly known about his early life, but what is evident is that he developed severe mental health issues as he grew older. He was diagnosed with schizophrenia, a mental disorder characterized by distorted thinking, perceptions, and emotional responsiveness.

The Killing Spree

Christopher's killing spree began in 1980 and continued into 1981. Over these months, he murdered at least eleven African-American men and one Hispanic man. His method of killing typically involved a .22-caliber firearm, which led to his infamous moniker, the ".22-Caliber Killer." His other nickname, the "Midtown Slasher," was derived from the location where many of his crimes occurred.

The choice of his victims was racially motivated, as evidenced by their ethnic backgrounds. This aspect of his killings brought a racially charged dimension to the subsequent investigations and public discourse. It raised uncomfortable questions about racial tensions in America and the vulnerability of minority communities to such targeted violence.