The Daughter Who Helped Unmask a Monster: April Balascio’s Harrowing Tale
In a chilling true crime story that captivated the nation, April Balascio faced the unimaginable truth about her father: he was a serial killer. Balascio’s memoir, Raised By a Serial Killer: Discovering the Truth About My Father, offers a haunting glimpse into a childhood shrouded in secrets and the shocking realization that led her to expose the man who raised her.
Balascio’s story first came to light in 2019 through the Gimlet Media podcast “The Clearing," a chilling narrative that detailed her journey of discovery. Now, her deeply personal account is available in full, detailing the chaotic upbringing that foreshadowed the horrifying reality.
Growing up, Balascio’s life was anything but ordinary. She describes her childhood as a confusing tapestry of unexplained absences, disturbing behaviors, and an underlying sense of unease. While she loved her father, Edward, a nagging feeling of wrongness always persisted.
“I still squirm when I think about how impulsive Daddy was,” she writes.
But Balascio’s suspicion took a dark turn when she stumbled upon disturbing evidence suggesting her father’s involvement in a string of unsolved murders. These suspicions fueled a prolonged period of agonizing internal conflict.
Ultimately, she made a life-altering decision: she contacted the police.
Balascio’s tip led to a full-scale investigation, eventually culminating in the arrest and conviction of her father. Raised by a Serial Killer not only recounts this harrowing experience but also delves into the profound emotional toll it took on Balascio.
The revelation shattered her reality, forcing her to confront a deeply disturbing truth about the man who raised her. It’s a testament to her courage and resilience that she chose to share her story, shedding light on the complex and often unbearable burden carried by families of perpetrators.
Excerpt:
Balascio’s powerful memoir is a true crime story, yes, but it’s also a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for strength and healing. It’s a reminder that even in the face of unspeakable darkness, truth and justice can prevail.
Raised by a Serial Killer is available for purchase now.
This story aired on Here & Now on December 4, 2024. Audio will be available after the broadcast.
