How a Notorious Texas Murder Shaped Halloween Forever

Since I was a kid my Mom always told me to check my candy before I ate it, just in case there were drugs or a razor blade somehow hidden in them. I never understood why she was so sure someone was out to hurt kids, especially on a night meant for them to have fun.  I didn't understand the paranoia until I became an adult and my unhealthy obsession with true crime began.

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"THE MAN WHO KILLED HALLOWEEN"

On Halloween night in Houston in 1974, Timothy O'Bryan was out trick-or-treating with his sister and dad, Ronald Clark O'Bryan. They had met up with family friends for dinner before going trick-or-treating. According to Investigation Discovery, Timothy collected plenty of candy on that cold and misty night.

When the family returned home from trick-or-treating, Ronald told the kids they could pick one last candy to eat before bed. Timothy chose a giant Pixie Stick (I mean who wouldn't). Timothy's excitement was short-lived due to the Pixie Stick having a bitter taste. Shortly after Timothy started complaining about a stomach ache, Timothy then collapsed and was rushed to the hospital where he passed away.

After Timothy's death, the cop's quick actions were able to save Timothy's sister and other kids who received the same tainted Pixie Sticks.

HOW "THE CANDYMAN" GOT CAUGHT

Quickly, the police were on to Ronald O'Bryan. In their investigation, they found he was in severe debt. When they did more digging, they found Ronald had taken out insurance policies on Timothy and his sister for almost the same amount as his debt. Come to find out Ronald was also having conversations about cyanide poisoning with different people in his everyday life. Ronald was soon placed under arrest and charged with murder.

On June 3, 1975, he was found guilty of one count of capital murder and four counts of attempted murder. Ronald was sentenced to death. That was executed almost 10 years later on March 31, 1984.

THE RESIDUAL LEFT BEHIND

Since this case, Halloween has forever been tainted, not just in Texas but all over the United States. No matter how much time passes, every Halloween kids are warned about the possibility of poisoned candy and treats.