Eugene Britt: 6 Gary Neighborhoods That Became Ghost Towns After the Strangler's Spree
The Lasting Impact of a Serial Killer on Urban Decay
Eugene Britt's murderous rampage in Gary, Indiana during 1995 left an indelible mark on the city. His crimes not only took innocent lives but also had far-reaching effects on the communities where he struck.
Six neighborhoods in Gary were particularly impacted by Britt's killing spree, transforming from vibrant areas into virtual ghost towns. The aftermath of his actions, combined with existing economic challenges, accelerated population decline and property abandonment in these once-thriving parts of the city. This article examines how Britt's crimes contributed to the deterioration of these specific Gary neighborhoods.
1) Horace Mann
Horace Mann High School once stood as a beacon of education in Gary, Indiana. Established in 1918, it was the city's third high school, originally located at West 5th Avenue and Garfield Street.
The school thrived during Gary's industrial boom, accommodating thousands of students at its peak. Its campus featured impressive facilities, including a pond that added to its picturesque setting.
As Gary's fortunes changed with the decline of the steel industry in the 1960s, Horace Mann's student population dwindled. By 2003, enrollment had plummeted to just 546 students, a fraction of its capacity.
The Gary School Board made the difficult decision to close Horace Mann in 2004. This closure marked the end of an era for the historic institution that had served the community for over eight decades.
Today, the abandoned Horace Mann High School stands as a silent reminder of Gary's changing landscape. Its empty halls echo the city's struggles and the impact of economic shifts on local communities.
2) New Chicago
New Chicago, a neighborhood in Gary, Indiana, experienced a significant decline following Eugene Britt's crimes in 1995. Once a thriving area, it saw a rapid exodus of residents in the aftermath of the serial killer's spree.
The neighborhood's population dwindled as fear gripped the community. Many families chose to relocate, seeking safer environments away from the haunting memories of Britt's actions.
Abandoned homes and shuttered businesses became common sights in New Chicago. The eerie emptiness of once-bustling streets created an atmosphere of desolation and neglect.
Local authorities struggled to maintain order and prevent further deterioration of the area. Despite efforts to revitalize New Chicago, the stigma associated with Britt's crimes proved difficult to overcome.
The neighborhood's transformation into a virtual ghost town serves as a stark reminder of the long-lasting impact of violent crime on communities. New Chicago's story highlights the challenges faced by areas trying to recover from such traumatic events.
3) Glen Park
Glen Park, once a vibrant neighborhood in Gary, Indiana, experienced a significant decline following Eugene Britt's crimes in 1995. The area, known for its tree-lined streets and modest homes, saw a rapid exodus of residents in the aftermath of the serial killer's spree.
The neighborhood's proximity to some of Britt's crime scenes contributed to the growing sense of unease among locals. As news of the murders spread, many families chose to relocate, seeking safer environments elsewhere.
Glen Park's commercial district, previously bustling with small businesses and local shops, began to suffer as the population dwindled. Storefronts that once served the community stood empty, their windows boarded up.
The local elementary school, a cornerstone of the neighborhood, saw enrollment numbers plummet. This led to budget cuts and eventually, its closure, further accelerating the area's decline.
Today, Glen Park bears little resemblance to its former self. Many houses stand abandoned, their lawns overgrown. The quiet streets that once echoed with children's laughter now lie eerily silent, a stark reminder of the impact of Britt's actions on this once-thriving Gary neighborhood.
4) Tarrytown
Tarrytown, once a vibrant neighborhood in Gary, Indiana, felt the impact of Eugene Britt's crimes in 1995. The area experienced a significant decline in population following the serial killer's spree.
Residents became fearful of venturing outside, especially after dark. This led to a decrease in local business patronage and community gatherings. Many families chose to relocate, seeking safer environments elsewhere.
The exodus of residents left numerous homes vacant. Property values plummeted as the neighborhood's reputation suffered. Local schools saw declining enrollment, further contributing to the area's deterioration.
Tarrytown's transformation into a ghost town was gradual but noticeable. Abandoned houses fell into disrepair, attracting vandalism and illegal activities. The once-thriving streets became eerily quiet.
Today, Tarrytown serves as a stark reminder of the far-reaching consequences of Britt's actions. The neighborhood's decline reflects the broader challenges faced by Gary in the wake of economic downturn and increased crime rates.
5) 13th Avenue
The 13th Avenue neighborhood in Gary, Indiana, once a bustling residential area, experienced a rapid decline following Eugene Britt's crimes in 1995. This street, located in the eastern part of the city, fell within Britt's 1.5-square-mile hunting ground.
The area's transformation was stark. Families, gripped by fear, began to move out in droves. Houses that had been well-maintained for generations suddenly stood empty, their windows boarded up and lawns overgrown.
Local businesses along 13th Avenue struggled to stay afloat as foot traffic dwindled. Many shops closed their doors permanently, unable to survive the mass exodus of residents.
The neighborhood's community spirit, once vibrant and close-knit, dissipated. Block parties and neighborhood watch meetings became a thing of the past as residents retreated indoors or left the area entirely.
Today, 13th Avenue bears little resemblance to its former self. Abandoned buildings line the street, serving as a grim reminder of the impact Britt's crimes had on this once-thriving community. The few remaining residents face challenges of isolation and limited access to services.
6) Ratner
Ratner, a once-bustling neighborhood in Gary, Indiana, experienced a dramatic decline following Eugene Britt's crimes in 1995. The area, known for its close-knit community, saw a rapid exodus of residents in the aftermath of the serial killer's spree.
Local businesses shuttered their doors as fear gripped the community. The once-vibrant streets became eerily quiet, with many homes left abandoned. Property values plummeted, making it difficult for those who wished to sell and relocate.
The neighborhood's parks and playgrounds, previously filled with children's laughter, stood empty as parents kept their kids indoors. Community events and gatherings, once a staple of Ratner's social life, ceased almost entirely.
Law enforcement increased patrols in the area, but this did little to assuage residents' fears. The psychological impact of Britt's crimes lingered long after his arrest, leaving a lasting scar on the neighborhood's collective psyche.
Today, Ratner bears little resemblance to its former self. Many buildings stand in disrepair, serving as a stark reminder of the area's troubled past. While some residents have remained, hoping for revitalization, the neighborhood continues to struggle with the long-term effects of its association with Britt's heinous acts.
Historical Context
Eugene Britt's crimes in Gary, Indiana occurred against a backdrop of urban decay and economic decline. His actions accelerated the emptying of several neighborhoods, transforming them into virtual ghost towns.
Eugene Britt Background
Eugene Victor Britt was born on November 4, 1957, in Gary, Indiana. He grew up in a troubled family environment and had a history of criminal behavior from a young age.
Britt's sister faced legal issues for child neglect in 1987, the same year Eugene was imprisoned. This family dysfunction likely contributed to his later actions.
In 1995, Britt embarked on a killing spree that shocked the Gary community. He targeted vulnerable women and girls, committing at least seven murders between May and September of that year.
Gary, Indiana's Urban Decline
Gary, Indiana experienced significant economic decline in the late 20th century. The city's population peaked in the 1960s at nearly 180,000 but began to shrink rapidly in subsequent decades.
The downturn of the steel industry, Gary's economic backbone, led to widespread job losses and urban flight. By the 1990s, many neighborhoods were plagued by abandoned buildings and rising crime rates.
Britt's crimes exacerbated this decline in specific areas. His activities made residents feel unsafe, prompting many to leave their homes. This accelerated the transformation of once-vibrant neighborhoods into desolate, sparsely populated areas.
Impact on Local Communities
Eugene Britt's killing spree in Gary and Portage, Indiana during 1995 had profound effects on local neighborhoods. Residents faced heightened fear and anxiety, leading to significant population shifts and property value changes in affected areas.
Displacement and Migration
Many families moved out of Gary's most impacted neighborhoods following Britt's crimes. The Broadway corridor and Aetna areas saw a notable exodus of residents seeking safer communities. Single women and families with young children were especially likely to relocate.
Local officials estimated that some neighborhoods lost 15-20% of their population in the months after Britt's arrest. This rapid outmigration strained community bonds and local businesses. Some apartment complexes reported vacancy rates as high as 40%.
Churches and community groups organized relocation assistance programs to help vulnerable residents move to other parts of the city or nearby towns. This reshaped the demographics of several Gary neighborhoods.
Changes in Real Estate
Property values plummeted in areas associated with Britt's attacks. Homes near crime scenes saw price drops of 30-50% in some cases. Many properties became difficult to sell or rent.
Landlords struggled with rising vacancy rates and declining rents. Some apartment buildings were abandoned or converted to other uses. Banks tightened lending in affected zip codes, making it harder for remaining residents to refinance or sell.
City officials implemented programs to demolish abandoned homes and support remaining property owners. However, the real estate market in parts of Gary took years to stabilize. Some formerly residential blocks transitioned to light industrial or commercial use.
Long-Term Consequences
Eugene Britt's killing spree left lasting impacts on Gary's neighborhoods. The aftermath led to significant economic challenges and social disruption that persisted for years.
Economic Effects
Property values in affected areas plummeted after Britt's crimes. Many homes were abandoned as residents fled, creating vacant properties that attracted crime. Local businesses struggled with reduced foot traffic and customer base.
Gary's tax revenues declined sharply due to population loss and business closures. This limited the city's ability to provide essential services and maintain infrastructure. Economic development initiatives stalled as investors avoided the stigmatized areas.
Some neighborhoods never fully recovered. Abandoned buildings became eyesores and safety hazards. The city lacked funds for large-scale demolition or redevelopment projects.
Social Effects
Fear and anxiety lingered long after Britt's arrest. Residents became more wary of strangers and limited outdoor activities. Community ties weakened as people isolated themselves.
Many families with children moved away, leading to school closures. This further fragmented neighborhoods and reduced social cohesion. Support systems for vulnerable residents eroded.
Trust in law enforcement was damaged. Some felt police had not done enough to protect the community during Britt's spree. This led to strained police-community relations for years.
Counseling services struggled to meet demand from traumatized residents. Mental health impacts persisted, contributing to substance abuse issues in some cases.
