The Amityville Horror

Record summary

The Lutz family reported frightening phenomena after moving into a house where the DeFeo family murders had occurred. Jay Anson’s 1977 book popularized claims of apparitions, odors, physical attacks and other disturbances, while later investigations and litigation challenged major parts of the account. The case matters because it combines a recent violent crime, a highly influential popular narrative and alleged paranormal testimony. Researchers should separate the DeFeo murders, the Lutz family’s claims, Anson’s presentation and subsequent hoax allegations rather than treating the story as a single verified event.