Content Warning: This article contains descriptions of violent crimes and may be disturbing to some readers.
Welcome back to another Mystery case! Today, we’re delving into the solved case of a Russian serial killer known as the “Granny Ripper.” This chilling story reveals how an innocent-looking grandmother became one of Russia’s most notorious killers.
Early Life and Background
Tamara Samsonova was born on February 5, 1947, in the small town of U in Russia. The city is part of the Krai region, Russia’s largest territory. While information about her early life is limited, we know that after graduating high school, she went on to study at the Moscow State Linguistic University.
Marriage and Early Adult Life
After university, Tamara moved to St. Petersburg, where she met her future husband, Alexi, who worked at a car repair plant. Meanwhile, Tamara found employment at a travel agency before working at the prestigious Grand Hotel Europe. The couple eventually settled into an apartment on Dimitria Street, where they would live together for the next 30 years.
The Mysterious Disappearance of Alexi
In 2000, after three decades of marriage, something strange occurred. Alexi was reported missing, and when police questioned Tamara, she claimed he had run off with another woman. Despite having no evidence to support this claim, the police had no reason to doubt her story at the time. However, this would later become significant as investigators began to piece together Tamara’s dark secrets.
A Pattern of Troubled Roommates
Following Alexi’s disappearance, Tamara began taking in roommates to combat her loneliness. Her first tenant was Vladimir, who moved out shortly after arriving due to constant conflicts. Then came Sergey Panan in 2003, whose stay ended in a mysterious disappearance. This pattern continued with several other male roommates, each relationship ending in heated arguments and sudden departures. Neighbors frequently reported hearing screaming, swearing, and banging from her apartment, suggesting she was far from an ideal roommate.
The Final Victim: Valentina Ulanova
By 2015, when Tamara was 68, she moved in with 79-year-old Valentina Ulanova, supposedly while her apartment underwent renovations. Initially, the arrangement seemed perfect – Tamara would help around the house in exchange for accommodation. However, things soon took a dark turn.
The Fatal Argument
After several months of living together, tensions rose when Tamara refused to leave and claimed she wanted to stay permanently. The situation escalated until July 23rd when a simple argument over dishes led to horrific consequences. Tamara purchased prescription medication (Fenazepam) from a local pharmacy, mixed 50 crushed pills into Valentina’s favorite Russian potato salad, and waited until Valentina fell unconscious before committing unspeakable acts of violence.
The Investigation and Discovery
The truth came to light when a couple walking their dog discovered human remains in a pond behind the house. Police investigation revealed blood evidence in Valentina’s house, CCTV footage of Tamara disposing of suspicious bags and a missing shower curtain that matched material found with the remains.
The Shocking Revelations
During the investigation, police discovered Tamara’s diary, written in three languages (English, Russian, and German), which contained detailed accounts of at least 10 murders over 20 years. Eventually, Tamara admitted to 13 murders, though investigators suspected the actual number could be as high as 21.
Read more: Beverley Allitt: Serial Killer Nurse
Understanding the Motives
Several factors contributed to Tamara’s crimes. She struggled with mental health issues, including suspected violent schizophrenia. Her interest in black magic and ritualistic practices played a role, as did possible cannibalistic tendencies. Additionally, she developed an obsession with another Russian serial killer, Andre Chikatilo, which may have influenced her methods.
The Outcome
Despite the severity of her crimes, Tamara never stood trial. She was deemed unfit to stand trial and diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia. She was ordered to spend the rest of her life at Kazan Psychiatric Hospital, leaving many questions unanswered and numerous families without closure.
Final Thoughts
The case of the Granny Ripper serves as a chilling reminder that evil can lurk behind the most unsuspecting facades. While Tamara’s mental illness may explain her actions, it doesn’t diminish the tragic impact on her victims and their families. Many questions remain unanswered, and some families may never know what happened to their loved ones.
