Ep 3. Alexander Pichuskin: The Chessboard Killer

Murderous Minds: Inside Serial Killers is a gripping true-crime series that delves into the most depraved minds of serial killers. In season 3 episode 3, the focus is on Alexander Pichuskin, also known as the "Chessboard Killer."

Pichuskin was a Russian serial killer who committed at least 49 murders between 1992 and 2006. He targeted primarily elderly men, luring them to secluded spots in Moscow's Bitsevsky Park where he would kill them with a hammer and leave their bodies in the woods.

The episode begins by examining Pichuskin's childhood and the events that may have led to his homicidal tendencies. Viewers learn that Pichuskin had a troubled relationship with his father and struggled to make friends in school. He also had a fascination with death, often spending his free time in cemeteries and reading books about serial killers.

As Pichuskin grew older, his obsession with death escalated. He began to frequent Bitsevsky Park and kept a tally of the number of people he killed on a chessboard. His ultimate goal was to kill 64 people - the same number of squares on a chessboard - in order to complete his "game."

The episode features interviews with experts in the field of psychology and criminology who analyze Pichuskin's behavior and offer insights into what drove him to commit such horrific acts. They discuss the concept of "signature killers" - those who have a specific pattern or ritual when committing their crimes - and how Pichuskin's use of a hammer and his fixation on the number 64 fit into this category.

Viewers also hear from investigators who worked on the case, including Alexander Drymanov, the former head of the Moscow Prosecutor's Office. They discuss the challenges they faced in catching Pichuskin, who initially denied any involvement in the murders. It wasn't until a survivor of one of his attacks came forward and positively identified him that he was finally arrested.

Throughout the episode, viewers are given a chilling glimpse into the mind of a serial killer. They learn about the disturbing details of Pichuskin's crimes and the cold, calculated way in which he carried them out. The episode also includes archival footage of Pichuskin's trial and his eventual sentencing to life in prison.

In conclusion, Murderous Minds: Inside Serial Killers season 3 episode 3 is a haunting exploration of one of Russia's most notorious serial killers. Through interviews with experts and investigators, the episode offers a comprehensive look at Pichuskin's crimes and the psychological factors that may have contributed to his murderous tendencies. It is a must-watch for true-crime enthusiasts and anyone interested in understanding the dark inner workings of the human mind.