From true crime to fictional murder stories, Ypsi authors’ new releases tread chilling ground

This Halloween season, Ypsi readers can enjoy two chilling new books by local authors: one delving into a shocking historical crime, the other offering dark, interactive fiction that hits close to home. Both involve Ypsi authors bringing the city’s stories, real and imagined, to life with vivid detail and creativity. From true crime investigations to personalized horror shorts, there’s something for fans of suspense and storytelling alike.

Ypsilanti author and historian James Mann is shedding new light on one of Michigan’s darkest true crime stories with his latest release, “The Torch Murders: The Brutal Slaying of Four Teens in Rural Michigan.” The book revisits the shocking 1931 case in which four teens were found dead in a smoldering car in rural Washtenaw County, sparking widespread fear and sensational headlines. Mann says the case continues to resonate, not only for its brutality but also for what it reveals about the region’s overlooked history.

“The Torch Murders [were] once called the most gruesome murder in Michigan’s history, yet so many people today have never even heard of it,” explains Mann. “What fascinates me is not only the crime itself, but also the missing pieces of local history it reveals, from a lynch mob of 20,000 in Ann Arbor to the way the story was overshadowed by later cases.”

Mann emphasizes that the pace of events surrounding the case still astonishes him nearly a century later. He notes that the investigation, trial, and sentencing all happened in a whirlwind of urgency that would be unimaginable today.

“What strikes me is how quickly it all unfolded,” Mann says. “The bodies were found Tuesday morning, the killers were on trial by Thursday evening, and by midnight they were already in Jackson Prison.”

The investigation of the Torch Murders was also remarkable for the unprecedented level of cooperation it required. Wayne and Washtenaw County’s sheriff’s departments worked closely with a local unit of the National Guard, and members of the American Legion helped maintain order and prevent a potential lynching. Mann highlights how this collaboration between law enforcement, civic organizations, and the public was essential in keeping the case on track and ensuring justice was served.

Mann says that “one of the most powerful parts” of the story is the “redemption” of Frank Oliver, one of the three men convicted of the murders.

“[Oliver] went from four life sentences to organizing prison newspapers, blood drives, and even programs that saved counties money by letting people continue their lives while awaiting trial,” Mann says. “I also hope readers see how crucial citizen participation was in solving the case. Ordinary people stepped forward with suspicions and evidence, and that made all the difference.”

Mann’s account of the Torch Murders paints a vivid picture of the era and its challenges, and combines meticulous research with the intrigue of a classic crime story.

“This story gives us an insight into our not-so-distant past, and how we have changed – I hope – for the better,” Mann says.

Those seeking frightening local fiction this fall are also in luck. Ypsilanti author Ken MacGregor’s recent release, “Some People I Have Killed,” is a collection that strikes close to home for readers who enjoy dark, thought-provoking, and occasionally funny stories. The concept for the collection, MacGregor explains, grew out of an interactive idea conceived by fellow local artist Holly Schoenfeld. Schoenfeld suggested MacGregor write willing real-life “victims” into short horror stories, “killing them off” on the page for a fee. MacGregor bases the stories on short questionnaires filled out by his “victims.”

“What began as a quick $35 experiment has grown into longer, more detailed tales that I think are far better today,” MacGregor says.

“Some People I Have Killed” compiles nearly 50 of these “Killed By Ken” horror short stories, many inspired by local Ypsilanti residents – though with names changed for privacy. The book turns those individuals’ real-life quirks and fears into the fuel for chilling fiction. Each story begins with a unique prompt, making the collection both personal and unpredictable.

“Each story is wildly different because I have to work with what the client gives me and make it believable, even though I don’t actually know most of them beyond the questionnaire,” MacGregor says. “Plus, it’s not just dark and creepy. It’s laugh-out-loud funny at times, even to me after rereading it through the editing process.”

The collection blends dark humor, suspense, and intimate glimpses into everyday life, making it perfect for the spooky season. MacGregor’s stories invite readers to explore both the eerie and the familiar in a uniquely interactive way.

“This collection is the perfect spooky season read, and it really showcases my range as a writer. Each story even includes notes about the inspiration behind it,” MacGregor says. “At the end of the day, I just want readers to have fun.”

You can order “The Torch Murders: The Brutal Slaying of Four Teens in Rural Michigan” here or pick up your copy from the Ypsilanti Historical Museum and Archives. “Some People I Have Killed” is available as an e-book from publisher Dragon’s Roost Press and in paperback through Splatter Theatre Press.