About This Location
The Amityville Horror House is a Dutch Colonial home that was the site of a mass murder on November 13, 1974, when 23-year-old Ronald DeFeo Jr. shot and killed his parents and four siblings while they slept. Thirteen months later, the Lutz family purchased the home at a reduced price but fled after just 28 days. Their experience inspired the 1977 book "The Amityville Horror" and numerous films. The address was changed to deter tourists.
The Ghost Story
The Lutz family reported terrifying phenomena during their 28-day stay: swarms of flies in winter, cold spots, rancid smells, and their dog showing constant fear. Five-year-old Missy developed an imaginary friend - a demonic pig-like creature with glowing red eyes named Jodie. When a Catholic priest came to bless the home, he heard a deep voice command "Get out!" and felt slapped across the face. Ed and Lorraine Warren investigated and rated it "a 10" on their scale of hauntings. Though skeptics question the Lutzes' story, citing their financial troubles, the house maintains its haunted reputation. Subsequent owners have reported continued phenomena.