What is barbara mackle?

Barbara Mackle is known for being the victim of a highly publicized kidnapping in December 1968. She was a 20-year-old Emory University student at the time. The incident is notorious due to the unusual and harrowing circumstances of her abduction and eventual rescue.

Kidnapping Incident:

  • On December 17, 1968, Mackle was abducted by Gary Krist and his accomplice, Ruth Eisemann-Schier, in Decatur, Georgia.
  • She was buried alive in a wooden box that had air holes, water, and some food, while the captors demanded a ransom from her wealthy family.
  • The kidnappers demanded $500,000 for her release, which was one of the largest ransom demands at the time.
  • After several days of negotiation, the ransom was paid, and the FBI was able to locate Mackle.

Rescue:

  • Mackle was found alive after spending 83 hours underground, thanks to the FBI's efforts and the tunnel vision of the kidnappers' hideout.
  • She was discovered in Gwinnett County, Georgia, and her survival story gained national attention.

Perpetrators:

  • Gary Krist and Ruth Eisemann-Schier were both apprehended by law enforcement soon after the ransom exchange and Mackle's rescue.
  • Krist was sentenced to life in prison but was paroled in 1979. He led a controversial life post-incarceration, including returning to criminal activity.
  • Eisemann-Schier became the first woman to be placed on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted list. She was eventually captured, served her time, and was deported.

Legacy:

  • The ordeal was the subject of a book written by Barbara Mackle and writer Gene Miller titled "83 Hours Till Dawn," which recounts her experience in detail.
  • The case has been the subject of various documentaries and continues to be an example of a miraculous survival story and effective law enforcement work.

Despite the traumatic experience, Barbara Mackle managed to move past the event, complete her education, maintain a low profile, and lead a relatively private life afterward.