THE FIRST VICTIM IN THE ZODIAC KILLER CASE

On December 20, 1968, David Arthur Faraday, a high school junior with aspirations and a promising future, became one of the first known victims in a series of brutal murders attributed to the infamous Zodiac Killer. His life, tragically cut short at just 17, marked the beginning of one of America’s most notorious and unsolved serial killer cases.

EARLY LIFE AND CHARACTER

David Arthur Faraday was born on October 2, 1951, in Vallejo, California. Growing up in Benicia, he was known as an all-American teenager with a reputation for being both polite and responsible. Active in school and well-liked among his peers, David had a strong academic record and was especially engaged in his local community. Faraday was part of the Boy Scouts, reflecting his disciplined and civic-minded nature. Friends and family described him as friendly, trustworthy, and focused—a young man with dreams that seemed entirely achievable.

RELATIONSHIP WITH BETTY LOU JENSEN

David’s relationship with 16-year-old Betty Lou Jensen, a fellow student, was relatively new but blossoming. Jensen, an accomplished student herself, shared many of David’s interests. Their bond was notable, as both families approved of their connection and saw the two as compatible young people. The pair planned their first official date on the evening of December 20, 1968, a simple night out that tragically became fatal.

THE NIGHT OF DECEMBER 20, 1968

On that fateful night, David borrowed his mother’s car and drove to Betty Lou’s house to pick her up. The couple intended to attend a Christmas concert at Hogan High School but made a detour to a remote area along Lake Herman Road, a well-known spot among local teens for its secluded nature. Around 11:15 p.m., as they sat in the car, they were ambushed by an unknown assailant.

Investigators pieced together the chilling events that followed. According to the evidence, the assailant approached the vehicle, ordered them out of the car, and subsequently opened fire. David was shot once in the head as he attempted to shield Betty Lou. Betty Lou tried to flee but was shot five times in the back as she ran. Both teens died on the scene, their lives taken in a brutal and sudden act of violence.

IMPACT AND INVESTIGATION

The murders of David Faraday and Betty Lou Jensen shocked the local community, instilling fear in a small town unaccustomed to such horrific crimes. Their deaths launched an investigation that, despite significant media coverage, went cold. Forensic evidence, including bullet casings, was collected, but leads were scarce. The case initially appeared to be an isolated tragedy, but it would soon be linked to one of the most infamous serial killers in history.

The attack on Faraday and Jensen marked the beginning of the Zodiac Killer’s spree, which would span several years and include at least five confirmed murders. In the months following, the killer would go on to taunt law enforcement and the media with cryptic letters, ciphers, and detailed accounts of his crimes, referring specifically to the murder of David and Betty Lou in his communication.

LEGACY AND REMEMBRANCE

David Arthur Faraday is remembered today as a young man with unfulfilled potential. His family, friends, and community were forever altered by his untimely death, and his name has since become synonymous with the mystery and horror surrounding the Zodiac Killer. David’s life serves as a reminder of the innocent victims whose stories are often overshadowed by the infamy of the killers who claim them.

The tragic events of that December night are revisited by true crime enthusiasts, historians, and investigators who continue to seek justice for David and all the Zodiac Killer’s victims. Despite advancements in forensic science and persistent efforts, the case remains unsolved.