EP 105: "The Devil Made Me Do It" — The Real Amityville Horror (Part I)

You’ve heard the phrase “the devil made me do it.” But what happens when someone uses it to explain one of the most infamous family murders in American history?

We dig into the real events behind The Amityville Horror — the gruesome 1974 murders that inspired a best-selling book, a Hollywood franchise, and decades of ghost stories. But before the hauntings and horror-movie jump scares, there was a family: the DeFeos.

We unravel the disturbing home life behind the glossy façade of 112 Ocean Avenue, a mansion gifted by old New York money, ruled by abuse, addiction, and control. From Big Ronnie’s violent temper to Butch DeFeo’s spiral into heroin and paranoia, we trace how a toxic family dynamic became the foundation for a massacre. And when the gunfire finally shattered that “perfect” suburban home, the real horror had only just begun.

⚠️ Content Warning: Domestic violence, child abuse, substance abuse, and graphic descriptions of homicide.

“That’s Genevieve. And that’s Kaitlyn.”

Sisters-in-law, best friends, former CNAs, and the sharp-witted duo behind Camping Is Canceled. Known for their mix of research-driven storytelling and unfiltered commentary, Gen and Kait tackle true crime cases (and paranormal rabbit holes) with empathy, curiosity, and a healthy dose of dark humor.

📲 Instagram: @campingiscanceled 📲 TikTok: @campingiscanceled 📧 Contact: [email protected]

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