Coral Watts: 7 Sunday Routines Destroyed by 'Sunday Morning Slasher

Carl Eugene Watts, known as "Coral" and "The Sunday Morning Slasher," terrorized communities across the United States during his eight-year killing spree. His targeting of women on Sunday mornings disrupted the usual peaceful routines of many neighborhoods, leaving residents fearful and on edge.

Watts' crimes shocked the nation and forever changed how people approached their Sunday activities. The serial killer's actions not only devastated families but also altered the sense of safety and normalcy that many associated with weekend mornings. This article examines seven Sunday morning routines that were impacted by the presence of the Sunday Morning Slasher.

1) Increased Police Patrolling

The Sunday Morning Slasher's reign of terror prompted a significant response from law enforcement. As fear gripped Ann Arbor, police departments took decisive action to enhance public safety.

Paul Bunten, a felony investigator for the Ann Arbor police, spearheaded efforts to catch the killer. He formed a dedicated task force to investigate the crimes and protect the community.

One of the task force's primary objectives was to increase police presence in and around the town. Officers patrolled the streets more frequently, especially during the early morning hours when the killer typically struck.

The heightened police visibility served two purposes. First, it aimed to deter the killer from striking again. Second, it helped reassure residents who were understandably anxious about their safety.

These increased patrols disrupted the usual quiet of Sunday mornings in Ann Arbor. Residents grew accustomed to seeing police vehicles cruising their neighborhoods at dawn, a stark reminder of the threat that lurked in their community.

2) Neighbors Forming Watch Groups

As fear gripped communities targeted by the Sunday Morning Slasher, residents banded together to protect themselves. Neighborhood watch groups sprang up across affected areas, with concerned citizens taking an active role in their safety.

These groups organized regular patrols during high-risk times, especially on Sunday mornings when Watts was known to strike. Neighbors took turns monitoring streets and reporting suspicious activities to local law enforcement.

Watch group members distributed flyers with safety tips and descriptions of the suspect. They also held community meetings to share information and discuss preventative measures.

Some groups installed additional streetlights and trimmed overgrown vegetation to eliminate potential hiding spots. Others encouraged the use of security systems and deadbolts to fortify homes against intrusions.

The formation of these watch groups helped restore a sense of control in frightened neighborhoods. It also fostered stronger community bonds as residents worked together to protect one another from the looming threat.

3) Local News Outlets Warning Residents

As the Sunday Morning Slasher's attacks continued, local news outlets in affected areas took on a crucial role. They began issuing warnings to residents about the ongoing threat.

Television stations and newspapers updated their coverage regularly. They provided descriptions of the suspect and his known patterns of behavior.

Reporters emphasized the importance of staying vigilant, especially during early morning hours. They advised residents to lock doors and windows, and to be aware of their surroundings.

Some news channels featured interviews with law enforcement officials. These segments offered safety tips and encouraged people to report suspicious activity.

The media coverage helped raise awareness about the danger posed by Coral Eugene Watts. It also assisted in keeping the public informed about the progress of the investigation.

Local news outlets became a vital link between law enforcement and the community. Their efforts contributed to increased caution among residents and potentially prevented further attacks.

4) Changes in Morning Walking Routes

The Sunday Morning Slasher's presence significantly altered walking habits in affected neighborhoods. Residents who once enjoyed peaceful early morning strolls became wary of venturing out alone.

Many individuals abandoned their usual routes, opting for busier streets or well-lit areas. Some chose to walk in groups or pairs, believing safety in numbers could deter potential attacks.

Parks and secluded paths, previously popular for morning exercise, saw a sharp decline in foot traffic. Joggers and dog walkers sought alternative locations, often closer to home or in more populated areas.

Neighborhood watch groups organized new walking schedules, encouraging residents to move in coordinated shifts. This approach aimed to maintain a constant presence on the streets while providing a sense of security.

Some community members shifted their routines entirely, choosing to exercise indoors or later in the day. Local gyms reported increased early morning attendance as people sought safer alternatives to outdoor activities.

These changes in walking patterns persisted long after the Slasher's capture, highlighting the lasting impact of his crimes on community behavior and perceptions of safety.

5) Personal Safety Devices Becoming Popular

The widespread fear caused by the Sunday Morning Slasher led to a surge in personal safety device sales. Residents sought ways to protect themselves during their morning routines.

Personal alarms became a common accessory, with many attaching them to keychains or wearing them as necklaces. These devices emitted loud sounds when activated, intended to startle attackers and draw attention.

Pepper spray sales also increased significantly. Many people carried small canisters for self-defense while jogging or walking their dogs in the early hours.

Some residents invested in more advanced technology, such as GPS tracking devices. These allowed family members to monitor each other's locations, providing an extra layer of security.

Home security systems saw a boost in installations. Families prioritized reinforcing their homes with alarms, motion sensors, and cameras to deter potential intruders.

Self-defense classes gained popularity as well. Many community centers and gyms offered courses tailored to women and focused on situational awareness and basic defensive techniques.

6) Parents Altering School Run Schedules

The presence of the Sunday Morning Slasher in communities caused significant changes to parents' routines for taking children to school. Many families adjusted their schedules to avoid being out during the early morning hours when Coral Eugene Watts was known to strike.

Some parents opted to drive their children to school instead of allowing them to walk or take the bus. This led to increased traffic around schools as more families chose private transportation over public options.

Schools in affected areas worked with parents to implement flexible drop-off times. This allowed families to arrive later in the morning when there was more activity and visibility on the streets.

Neighborhood watch groups formed to monitor bus stops and walking routes. Parents took turns supervising children during morning commutes to ensure safety in numbers.

The alterations to school run schedules highlighted the far-reaching impact of Watts' crimes on daily life. Families were forced to adapt their routines to protect their children from potential harm during vulnerable morning hours.

7) Rise in Home Security System Purchases

The Sunday Morning Slasher's reign of terror had a profound impact on home security practices. As news of Coral Eugene Watts' crimes spread, many residents in affected areas felt compelled to enhance their safety measures.

Home security system sales experienced a notable uptick during this period. Families and individuals sought to fortify their homes against potential intruders, with a particular focus on securing entry points.

Alarm companies reported increased inquiries and installations. Many homeowners opted for systems with motion sensors, door and window alarms, and direct connections to local law enforcement.

Some residents invested in more advanced security features, such as surveillance cameras and reinforced locks. The goal was to create multiple layers of protection against potential threats.

The surge in security system purchases reflected a community-wide effort to regain a sense of safety. While no system could guarantee complete protection, these measures provided some peace of mind during a time of heightened fear and uncertainty.

Overview of Coral Eugene Watts

Carl Eugene Watts, known as "Coral" and "The Sunday Morning Slasher," was a prolific American serial killer active in the 1970s and early 1980s. He terrorized communities in Texas and Michigan, targeting women with brutal efficiency.

Early Life and Background

Carl Eugene Watts was born on November 7, 1953, in Killeen, Texas. His father was a private in the military, and his mother was Dorothy Mae. Watts faced challenges early in life, contracting meningitis at 18 months old, which may have affected his development.

As a child, Watts struggled with learning disabilities and exhibited troubling behavior. He fantasized about hurting girls from a young age. These early signs of aggression and difficulty with social interactions foreshadowed his later criminal activities.

Criminal Activities and Capture

Watts began his killing spree in 1974, targeting young women and girls. His modus operandi often involved stalking victims on Sunday mornings, earning him the nickname "The Sunday Morning Slasher." Watts employed various methods to kill, including strangulation, stabbing, and drowning.

Law enforcement suspected Watts in over 100 murders across Texas and Michigan. In 1982, he was finally apprehended after a failed attack on Michele Maday in Houston. Watts accepted a plea deal, confessing to 12 murders in exchange for immunity from prosecution in those cases.

He received a 60-year sentence for burglary with intent to murder. Later, DNA evidence linked him to additional killings. Watts died of prostate cancer on September 21, 2007, while serving two life sentences.

Impact on Communities

Coral Eugene Watts's crimes sent shockwaves through the communities he targeted. His actions disrupted daily routines and instilled fear in residents, particularly women. The media's coverage of the case further amplified public concern and reaction.

Disruption of Daily Life

Watts's attacks altered the behavior of many residents in affected areas. Women became hesitant to go out alone, especially during early morning hours. Some neighborhoods organized community watch programs and increased security measures. Local businesses reported a decline in foot traffic, particularly on Sunday mornings.

Law enforcement agencies stepped up patrols and urged citizens to remain vigilant. Schools and community centers held safety workshops to educate people about personal protection strategies. The constant fear of potential attacks led to a palpable tension in public spaces.

Media Coverage and Public Reaction

The media played a significant role in shaping public perception of the Sunday Morning Slasher case. News outlets provided frequent updates on the investigation, often featuring interviews with law enforcement officials and survivors. This extensive coverage kept the case in the public eye and fueled discussions about personal safety.

Public reaction ranged from fear to anger. Many residents expressed frustration with the initial lack of progress in catching the killer. Vigils and memorial services for victims became focal points for community solidarity. Support groups formed to assist survivors and victims' families, highlighting the long-lasting impact of Watts's crimes on those affected.

Psychological Effects on Victims and Witnesses

Coral Eugene Watts' crimes left deep psychological scars on both victims and witnesses. Survivors often experienced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression following their encounters with the Sunday Morning Slasher.

Many victims reported ongoing fear and hypervigilance, especially during early morning hours when Watts typically struck. This led to disrupted sleep patterns and difficulty maintaining normal routines.

Witnesses who narrowly escaped or observed Watts' attacks frequently suffered from survivor's guilt and intrusive thoughts. Some developed agoraphobia or specific phobias related to situations reminiscent of the crimes.

Common psychological effects included:

Nightmares and flashbacks
Intense feelings of vulnerability
Trust issues in relationships
Difficulty concentrating
Emotional numbness

Professional counseling and support groups played crucial roles in helping victims and witnesses process their trauma. Many required long-term therapy to cope with the lasting impacts of their experiences.

Communities affected by Watts' crimes also experienced collective trauma. Increased fear and suspicion altered social dynamics, leading to heightened security measures and changes in daily habits.

The psychological toll extended to law enforcement and healthcare professionals involved in the cases. Secondary trauma affected many who worked closely with victims or investigated the crimes.