Trio Wore Masks and Face Paint — Then Opened Fire in Grocery Stores, Killing 28 People, Including Children

The ‘Crazy Killers of Brabant’ were responsible for the deaths of 28 people in a series of horrifying attacks on grocery stores in Belgium. The masked trio, also known as the Brabant Killers, carried out these brutal assaults between 1982 and 1985, leaving behind a trail of devastation. Survivors like David Van de Steen, who tragically lost his parents and sister, and Geneviève Van Lidth, who managed to identify one of the attackers, bear witness to the trauma inflicted by these ruthless killers.

These assailants, dubbed the Giant, the Killer, and the Old Man, brought terror to the Brabant region with their heinous acts of violence. Their use of face paint during the attacks added a chilling element to their sinister deeds, and their identities remain a mystery to this day. The perpetrators targeted not only supermarkets but also other establishments like hostels, a gunsmith’s shop, and even a restaurant, leaving a community in shock and fear.

One of the most tragic incidents occurred on November 9, 1985, when a Delhaize grocery store in Aalst became the scene of bloodshed, resulting in the deaths of eight innocent individuals. Among the witnesses were two young brothers who, despite their tender ages of 7 and 10 at the time, bravely tried to assist by recording a car’s registration number as part of their childhood hobby. This clue, however, went unexplored for many years, adding a layer of frustration to the already perplexing case.

David Van de Steen’s harrowing experience during the Aalst attack, where he not only suffered serious injuries but also lost his entire family, serves as a poignant reminder of the deep scars left by the Brabant Killers. The heart-wrenching moment when his sister pleaded for their father’s life underscores the senseless brutality of the assailants, who showed no mercy in their ruthless spree of violence.

Geneviève Van Lidth’s encounter with one of the attackers provided a rare glimpse into the face behind the mask, as she bravely shared details of her traumatic experience. Her recollection of the assailant’s appearance, accent, and the car involved in the crime shed light on the meticulous planning and execution of these gruesome acts. Despite the passage of time, her memory of the events remains vivid and haunting, a testament to the lasting impact of the tragedy.

Investigations into the Brabant Killers case have faced numerous challenges and obstacles, with theories ranging from internal conspiracies to far-right connections within law enforcement circles. The complexities surrounding the motives and identities of the perpetrators have confounded authorities for decades, leading to a sense of frustration and helplessness among the victims’ families and the wider community.

Despite some potential breakthroughs, such as confessions and charges against individuals linked to the case, the true culprits behind the Brabant Killers’ reign of terror have eluded justice. The closure of the case in 2024 marked a somber moment for those affected by the attacks, leaving lingering questions and unresolved trauma in its wake. As the memories of the victims live on, the quest for answers and closure continues, offering hope for justice and healing in the face of unimaginable tragedy.