The idea of faking ghost stories for profit is not new. A prime example is the Amityville Horror, which has captivated audiences for decades. This tale began in 1975 when George and Kathy Lutz bought a house in Amityville, Long Island. They claimed to experience terrifying supernatural events during their short stay. But how much of this story is true? Let’s dive into the facts.
Key points
The Lutz Family’s Story
The Lutz family moved into their new home, unaware of its dark history. Just a year before, Ronald DeFeo had murdered six family members in the house. The Lutzes paid $80,000 for the property, which was twice their budget. George was under financial stress, and the house needed repairs. This context raises questions about their motives for creating a ghost story.
Strange Events or Everyday Life?
The Lutzes reported various strange occurrences in the house. They claimed the phone would ring with no one on the line, and they noticed odd smells. However, these could easily be explained. The house had been vacant for over a year and was near a lake, which could account for any strange odors.
Other claims included George developing a stomach virus and the boys fighting. These are common family issues, not signs of supernatural activity. The Lutzes also reported finding the basement flooded and the boys’ bedroom windows wide open. These events are typical in many households and do not indicate a haunting.
The Truth Behind the Claims
Many of the Lutzes’ claims have been debunked. For instance, they mentioned blood on the walls and flies in the attic, but no evidence supports these assertions. Neighbors reported nothing unusual during the Lutz family’s time in the house. In fact, no one has reported supernatural events in the Amityville house since.
The Lutzes’ story grew more elaborate over time. They initially presented a simple tale of a haunted house, but as interest grew, so did the details. Author Jay Anson, who wrote the book based on their experiences, even advised them to keep their story consistent.
The Role of the Warrens
To boost their story, the Lutzes enlisted the help of famous paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. They claimed to have experienced terrifying events in the house, but their accounts were inconsistent. The Warrens had a history of sensationalizing cases for profit, making their involvement suspect.
The Aftermath
Despite the lack of evidence, many people still believe in the Amityville Horror. A recent poll showed that over 65% of respondents thought the story was true. This phenomenon highlights a human tendency to cling to sensational stories, even when faced with facts.
The Lutzes quickly realized they could profit from their experiences. They signed a book deal less than a month after leaving the house. Their story set unrealistic expectations for haunted houses, leading to a culture where every ghost story must include dramatic elements like blood, demons, and exorcisms.
The Current State of the Amityville House
Rumors about the Amityville house continue to circulate. Some claim it has burned down or been demolished, but the truth is that it is still standing. The house has been remodeled, with its infamous “eyes” replaced by plain windows. The current owners prefer to distance themselves from the past and the stories that made the house infamous.
Conclusion
The Amityville Horror is a classic example of how a story can grow and evolve, often for profit. While the Lutz family claimed to experience terrifying events, the evidence suggests otherwise. Their story has set a standard for haunted houses that is unrealistic and misleading. As paranormal investigators continue to explore the truth behind such tales, it’s essential to approach these stories with a critical eye. The real horror may lie in how easily people can be deceived.
