The infamous “Amityville Horror” house, forever linked to tales of demonic possession and paranormal activity, isn’t found at the iconic address of 112 Ocean Avenue anymore. It’s now located at 108 Ocean Avenue, Amityville, New York, changed to deter gawkers and protect the privacy of current residents.
The Haunted History of 108 Ocean Avenue (Formerly 112)
The story of 112 Ocean Avenue (now 108) is a chilling one, forever etched in the collective consciousness thanks to Jay Anson’s 1977 book, The Amityville Horror: A True Story, and the subsequent films. The narrative centers around the Lutz family, who claimed to have experienced terrifying paranormal events during their 28 days living in the house in 1975. However, the house’s dark history began long before the Lutz family moved in.
The DeFeo Murders
Before the alleged haunting, the house was the site of a horrific crime. On November 13, 1974, Ronald DeFeo Jr. murdered his parents and four siblings with a high-powered rifle while they slept. This brutal act instantly transformed the house into a symbol of unspeakable tragedy and laid the foundation for the “haunted” narrative that would follow. While DeFeo claimed to have heard voices telling him to kill, he was ultimately convicted of six counts of second-degree murder. This horrifying event continues to cast a long shadow over the house.
The Lutz Family’s Claims
Just over a year after the murders, George and Kathy Lutz moved into the house with their three children. They claimed to have experienced a barrage of paranormal phenomena, including unexplained cold spots, foul odors, moving objects, and terrifying visions. They ultimately fled the house after only 28 days, claiming they feared for their lives. The Lutz family’s story, fueled by Anson’s book, became a cultural phenomenon, captivating and horrifying audiences worldwide. The validity of their claims, however, has been fiercely debated for decades.
Renovation and Subsequent Ownership
Following the Lutz family’s departure, the house has been occupied by several different families. Each new owner has undertaken renovations and modifications to the property, including changing the house number from 112 to 108 Ocean Avenue to discourage tourists. These renovations have significantly altered the house’s appearance both inside and out, further distancing it from the iconic images popularized in the films. Subsequent residents have reported little to no paranormal activity, adding to the controversy surrounding the “Amityville Horror” story.
Separating Fact from Fiction: The Controversy Surrounding the Amityville Horror
The “Amityville Horror” story has been riddled with controversy since its inception. Skeptics have pointed to inconsistencies in the Lutz family’s account, financial motivations for exaggerating or fabricating the events, and the lack of corroborating evidence from other sources. Others maintain that the Lutz family genuinely experienced paranormal activity, citing their emotional distress and the perceived credibility of their account. The truth likely lies somewhere in between, with elements of genuine experience potentially amplified and embellished over time.
Expert Opinions and Skeptical Analysis
Many paranormal investigators and skeptics have investigated the Amityville case, arriving at varying conclusions. Some argue that the alleged paranormal phenomena can be explained by natural causes, psychological factors, or deliberate hoaxes. Others maintain that the house holds a palpable sense of unease and that the Lutz family’s experiences cannot be easily dismissed. The lack of definitive evidence makes it difficult to definitively prove or disprove the claims of paranormal activity.
The Enduring Legacy of the Amityville Horror
Despite the controversy, the “Amityville Horror” story continues to fascinate and terrify audiences. It has spawned numerous books, films, and documentaries, cementing its place in popular culture. The story serves as a cautionary tale about the potential dangers of the paranormal, the power of suggestion, and the human capacity for both belief and disbelief. Whether based on fact or fiction, the “Amityville Horror” remains a compelling and enduring narrative that continues to provoke debate and inspire fear.
FAQs: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Amityville Horror
Below are some frequently asked questions about the Amityville Horror house and its history.
FAQ 1: What is the current address of the Amityville Horror house?
The current address is 108 Ocean Avenue, Amityville, New York. The address was changed from 112 Ocean Avenue after the Lutz family moved out.
FAQ 2: Can I visit the Amityville Horror house?
No, you should not visit the house. It is a private residence, and trespassing is illegal. Furthermore, repeated attempts to view the property disturb the current residents.
FAQ 3: Who lived in the house before the Lutz family?
The DeFeo family lived in the house before the Lutz family. Ronald DeFeo Jr. murdered his entire family there in 1974.
FAQ 4: What paranormal events did the Lutz family claim to experience?
The Lutz family claimed to experience a range of paranormal events, including cold spots, strange noises, foul odors, moving objects, and terrifying apparitions. They also reported feeling a demonic presence and experiencing sleep disturbances.
FAQ 5: How long did the Lutz family live in the house?
The Lutz family lived in the house for only 28 days before fleeing due to the alleged paranormal activity.
FAQ 6: Was the Amityville Horror story based on true events?
The question of whether the “Amityville Horror” story is based on true events is a subject of much debate. While the DeFeo murders are undeniably factual, the paranormal claims made by the Lutz family are highly controversial and have been widely disputed.
FAQ 7: Have subsequent owners of the house reported any paranormal activity?
Subsequent owners of the house have generally reported little to no paranormal activity. This has further fueled the skepticism surrounding the Lutz family’s claims.
FAQ 8: What renovations have been made to the Amityville Horror house?
The house has undergone several renovations over the years, including changing the house number, altering the exterior appearance, and remodeling the interior. These changes make it difficult to compare the current house to the iconic images from the “Amityville Horror” films.
FAQ 9: What is the significance of the red room in the basement?
The “red room” in the basement, often portrayed as a center of paranormal activity in the “Amityville Horror” narrative, is likely a fabrication or exaggeration. While the house did have a basement, the existence and significance of a dedicated “red room” are unsubstantiated.
FAQ 10: Are there any documentaries about the Amityville Horror?
Yes, there are numerous documentaries about the Amityville Horror, exploring the DeFeo murders, the Lutz family’s claims, and the subsequent investigations. These documentaries offer a range of perspectives on the case, from skeptical analysis to paranormal investigations.
FAQ 11: Why did they change the address of the Amityville Horror house?
The address was changed from 112 Ocean Avenue to 108 Ocean Avenue to deter tourists and protect the privacy of the current residents. The constant attention and unwanted visitors had become a significant disturbance for those living in the house.
FAQ 12: Is the Amityville Horror story still relevant today?
Despite the controversy and the passage of time, the Amityville Horror story remains relevant today because it touches on fundamental human fears and beliefs. It explores themes of the supernatural, the power of suggestion, and the enduring impact of trauma. The story serves as a reminder of the human capacity for both belief and skepticism, and its continued popularity speaks to its enduring power to captivate and terrify.