Ted Bundy’s VW Beetle at National Museum of Crime and Punishment

Ted Bundy's deadly VW Beetle at the National Museum of Crime & Punishment

National Museum of Crime & Punishment

The National Museum of Crime and Punishment (NMCP) today unveiled the 1968 VW Beetle used by notorious serial killer Ted Bundy during his crime spree resulting from 1974 to1977. The bug was purchased by Arthur Nash from the police and stored until its début at the museum.

Wyndell C. Watkins, Sr. retired Deputy Chief of Police for the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) in Washington, D.C. said at the unveiling, “Ted Bundy was a wolf in sheep's clothing. Bundy did not look like a monster. He was well educated. Bundy used his charm and charisma to get close to his victims." Watkins is the author of YOUVESTIGATE, DON’T SPECULATE, a 2008 book explaining processes, procedures and technology members of the public can use to stay safe.

According to Watkins, the term "serial killer" was coined during the Bundy case. Bundy admitted to killing between 30 and 40 women, but the FBI estimates that he may have had as many as 150 victims.

Bundy sometimes used his car as a rouse to lure his victims. The killer often wore his arm in a sling and asked women to help him open the car door. When the victim came near, Bundy would pull out a crow bar and strike her on the head. Other times Bundy would pose as a policeman or fireman to gain his victim's trust.

Watkins explained that the lesson to be learned from the Ted Bundy case is that it is important to be vigilant. "Do not assume anything until you have checked out the facts. Be sure the badge is real. Make sure any ID has a picture on it." Most importantly, Watkins said to do everything you can to get out of the car if you are forced into it. His experience demonstrates that if you can not, you are not likely to get out alive.

Ted Bundy’s VW replaces John Dillinger 1933 Essex Teraplane getaway car in the museum foyer. The Dillinger car was moved to the Southwest terminal at BWI Airport.

NMCP’s mission is to provide insight into issues of crime, crime fighting, and the consequences of committing a crime in the United States. The museum includes the television set of America's Most Wanted with host John Walsh. NMCP is located at 575 7th St. NW between E and F Streets in downtown Washington, D.C. at the Gallery Place/Chinatown Metro (Arena exit).