Crime + investigation

The Shocking Reason Serial Killer David Berkowitz Targeted Women

Watch a video on the life of the infamous serial killer, Son of Sam.

A group of men in formal attire, including a person wearing a beret, are gathered in a dimly lit setting.
Published: October 11, 2017Last Updated: September 04, 2025

Infamous killer David Berkowitz, also known as Son of Sam, murdered six people in New York City in the 1970s.

Born to a Jewish mother, Berkowitz was adopted by Jewish-American parents when he was only a few days old. His adopted mother, Pearl Berkowitz, died when he was a teenager and her passing deeply affected him. He later searched for his birth mother. Eventually he found her—a woman named Betty Falco—but he didn't receive the warm welcome he expected.

Soon after his birth mother's rejection, Berkowitz began his string of murders. Most of his victims were women.

After his arrest Berkowiz said he wasn't a woman-hater, but later admitted he targeted women so they wouldn't have children who were unwanted, like he was.

Watch: Naomi Ekperigin tells the story of David Berkowitz's adoption, "Son of Sam" crime spree, and come-to-Jesus moment.

Read more about David Berkowitz and whether he acted alone.

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Citation Information

Article title
The Shocking Reason Serial Killer David Berkowitz Targeted Women
Author
admin
Website Name
A&E
Date Accessed
September 25, 2025
Publisher
A&E Television Networks
Last Updated
September 04, 2025
Original Published Date
October 11, 2017
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