Credits: Image by freepik (for illustration purposes only)
The notorious serial killer known as “Jack the Ripper” from the Victorian Era London has long remained unidentified. However, historian Russell Edwards claims to have unmasked Jack the Ripper as Aaron Kosminski, a key suspect, using DNA analysis on a shawl believed to be connected to one of the victims over a century ago.
In a significant development, DNA extracted from the shawl found at the crime scene of Catherine Eddowes, a victim of Jack the Ripper, matches a DNA sample from Kosminski’s living relative. Edwards, who acquired the shawl in 2007, expressed his elation at the 100 percent DNA match, believing it offers closure and justice for the descendants of the victims.
Edwards and the victims’ descendants are seeking legal recognition from Britain’s High Court to officially name Kosminski as the serial killer. The descendants emphasize the importance of honoring the victims and seeking justice for the crimes committed.
While the findings seem conclusive, some experts raise doubts about the study’s methodology. Forensic scientist Walther Parsons criticized the lack of genetic sequences in the report, questioning the reliability of the results. Despite the skepticism, the push for legal recognition of Kosminski as Jack the Ripper continues with expectations on the High Court’s decision.
Credits: Image by freepik (for illustration purposes only)
In 2019, initial DNA tests conducted by molecular biologist Walther Parson and DNA researcher Hansi Weissensteiner from Innsbruck Medical University cast doubt on the authenticity of a shawl linked to Jack the Ripper and questioned the genetic testing methods used. They pointed out that genetic sequences from living relatives of Catherine Eddowes and Aaron Kosminski were not included in the testing, raising concerns about potential contamination of the shawl due to storage. Subsequently, a genetic sample from Kosminski’s brother’s great-great-granddaughter was provided for testing.
Who was Aaron Kosminski? He was a Jewish Polish immigrant who arrived in Whitechapel, England, in 1881 with his brother and became a barber in London. Kosminski, a prime suspect in the 1888 murders attributed to Jack the Ripper, was never formally charged in the case. He spent the rest of his life in an asylum due to diagnosed schizophrenia until his death.
Jack the Ripper’s infamous victims in 1888 included Mary Ann Nichols, Annie Chapman, Elizabeth Stride, Catherine Eddowes, and Mary Jane Kelly, collectively known as the “canonical five.” Researchers believe these women were likely killed by a single perpetrator.
The killer was believed to have had anatomical knowledge, as the murders involved precise incisions and organ removal. Kosminski’s asylum records indicating his occupation as a “barber-surgeon” align with this theory. Despite extensive investigation, Jack the Ripper’s true identity eluded authorities, remaining an enigma in history.
Recent DNA findings have generated buzz online, with netizens expressing astonishment over the potential revelation of Jack the Ripper’s identity. Tweets reflect a mix of emotions, from relief at closure in the case to skepticism about the DNA testing methods used. Discussions also touch on Kosminski’s skills as a barber and theories surrounding the brutal nature of the Ripper’s crimes.
Overall, the ongoing quest to unveil Jack the Ripper’s true identity through DNA testing continues to captivate and intrigue the public.
Text: Image credits: Context2XTweet by a user commenting on the year 2025, unrelated to Jack the Ripper’s identity and DNA testing.
Image credits: destroynectarTweet reacting to Jack the Ripper’s identity possibly being revealed, comparing it to the Titanic discovery.
Image credits: suayrezTweet by a user discussing Jack The Ripper’s identity, responding with “don’t mean nothing now.”
Image credits: kimaforyouTweet questioning why Jack The Ripper’s identity took so long to uncover using DNA testing.
Image credits: menscoach1Tweet humorously discussing Jack the Ripper’s identity and age, referencing DNA testing.
Image credits: pearlydewddropsTweet joking about Jack the Ripper’s identity being revealed before the release of GTA 6, gaining 22.9K likes.
Image credits: steven91291The post “Jack The Ripper’s Identity Revealed After 130 Years Thanks To DNA Testing” first appeared on Bored Panda.
