Ep 8. Wolfgang/Beate Schmidt

Wolfgang and Beate Schmidt were a married couple in Germany who carried out a string of murders and bombings over the course of several years. This episode of World's Most Evil Killers delves into the twisted motivations and actions of the Schmidts, beginning with their emergence as neo-Nazis in the 1980s.

Through interviews with investigators, journalists, and others close to the case, the episode presents a detailed look at the couple's crimes. Their targets included immigrants, left-wing politicians, and Jewish people, and they participated in a wide range of violent acts, including bombings, shootings, and even a failed attempt to blow up a synagogue.

The episode explores the intersection of political extremism and violent crime, as the Schmidts' neo-Nazi beliefs were at the forefront of their actions. It also delves into the Schmidts' personal lives, including their unconventional relationship (they were both in relationships with other people when they met and began an affair) and their shared desire for power and control.

Despite a nationwide search and a massive manhunt, the Schmidts initially evaded capture, going underground and continuing their killing spree. The episode details the authorities' efforts to bring them to justice, including the use of wiretaps and undercover operatives.

Ultimately, the Schmidts were arrested in 2011 and charged with multiple counts of murder, attempted murder, and terrorism. The episode examines their trials and the testimony of survivors and witnesses, including one victim who lost her son in a bombing carried out by the Schmidts.

Throughout the episode, experts weigh in on the psychology of extremist groups and the ties between political ideology and violent behavior. It is a chilling look at the darkness that can lurk within the human mind and the potentially deadly consequences of extremist beliefs and actions.