THE LOST SON OF SAM LETTERS

Trust

It was important to Uncle Bill and his posse that they explain their connection to Gary Evans. They shared a profound loyalty to Evans, regardless of the crimes he had committed. The killer that Evans had become wasn't the tender, caring individual they had known. This was important. One of them later told me, "Not that Gary's actions were condoned by us in any way, but think of it as if your best friend slowly became a different person ... you'd still have that love of friendship toward him. Gary had a very troubled childhood and everyone seemed to look past that [once he admitted to killing five people]. Not that all children from abusive families turn out to be serial killers, but once you feel no one cares for you and you are constantly told you are worthless, you begin to believe it and care less about yourself."

Gary Evans

According to sources for my book, Evans had been repeatedly abused physically and sexually by his father during childhood. He had grown up in an alcoholic household. His mother had taught him how to steal. He never really had a chance in life—although that is hardly an excuse for murder. I got scores of letters after the book came out. Readers felt guilty that at some points in the book they felt sorry for Evans.

"We discussed in depth the things we would not tell or show you," a source at Bill's that day said later. "We put some things away and began to lay out the items Uncle Bill wanted to show you. We sat around and shared stories about Gary, both fond and not so fond. You have to remember that Uncle Bill knew Gary for many, many years, and most of his memories are that of a friend."

To me, this was new information. I had thought Evans and Uncle Bill lost touch throughout the years. I never knew Evans had stayed in contact right up until the end.

When they heard my car enter the driveway, I was told later they ran toward the window. "We were nervous and anticipating what you had to share with us as well." I had been researching Evans for about a year. They knew I had uncovered a lot of new information about him.

"Once you began to talk and ask questions and share information with us, Uncle Bill reciprocated. I distinctly remember at one point as I sat at the table, I noticed him and [my fiancé] make eye contact. [My fiancé] was the most pessimistic about meeting you and with his eyes seemed to 'tell' Uncle Bill you were trust worthy."

It was then when Uncle Bill began to "let his guard down," my source said. And make a decision to allow me to see the additional items they had hidden before my arrival.

Enter Son of Sam.