In 2014, a deeply unsettling incident unfolded in Waukesha, Wisconsin, involving three 12-year-old girls. What began as a sleepover among friends ended in a near-fatal attack that shocked the world. The perpetrators, Anissa Weier and Morgan Geyser, believed they were acting under the influence of a fictional internet character – Slender Man. Their victim, Payton Leutner, survived against all odds.
Who Is Slender Man?
Slender Man is a fictional figure born from an online contest that challenged users to create eerie images. He’s depicted as unnaturally tall and faceless, dressed in a black suit, and lurking in shadowy places like forests. Though entirely made up, Slender Man became a viral sensation, inspiring horror stories, games, and fan fiction. But he is not real.
The Attack
Anissa and Morgan became convinced that Slender Man was real and dangerous. They believed he lived in a forest mansion and would harm their families unless they proved loyalty by committing murder. They also thought killing someone would earn them a place by his side.
On May 31, 2014, they invited their friend Payton Leutner to a sleepover. The next morning, they lured her into the woods and carried out their plan. Morgan stabbed Payton 19 times while Anissa urged her on. They left Payton bleeding and alone.
Payton’s Remarkable Survival
Despite her severe injuries, Payton managed to crawl to a nearby road. A passing cyclist found her and called for help. She was rushed to the hospital and, miraculously, survived. Her resilience and courage became a symbol of hope and strength.
What Happened to Anissa and Morgan?
Both girls were arrested shortly after the attack. Investigators discovered their belief in Slender Man and their fear-driven motive. Psychological evaluations revealed serious mental health conditions. Instead of prison, they were committed to mental health institutions for long-term treatment.
Lessons from a Tragedy
This case offers sobering insights:
- Fiction vs. Reality: Just because something is popular online doesn’t make it true.
- Mental Health Awareness: Children can harbour deep fears and delusions. Open conversations and support are crucial.
- Safe Friendships: True friends protect and uplift each other – not cause harm.
Final Reflection
The tragic events of 2014 prompted a crucial, long-overdue discussion about the impact of digital culture and media consumption on young, developing minds. It forced parents, educators, and mental health professionals to confront the reality that even seemingly harmless internet folklore can be misinterpreted and become a catalyst for delusion and violence in vulnerable individuals. Beyond the legal and psychological outcomes for the girls involved, the case fundamentally highlighted the critical need for digital literacy education, ensuring children possess the tools to distinguish between online fantasy and the physical world, and know where to seek help when fear or confusion begins to overwhelm their sense of reality.
Conclusion
The Slender Man stabbing is a haunting reminder of how imagination, fear, and untreated mental illness can collide with devastating consequences. Payton’s survival is a testament to human strength, and her story continues to inspire. It also underscores the urgent need for compassion, mental health care, and media literacy – especially for young minds navigating a digital world.
Source:
- The True Crime File by Kim Daly
