Daniel Meredith, 52, was murdered on January 27, 1978, in Sacramento, California, one of multiple victims killed that day by Richard Chase, later dubbed the Vampire of Sacramento. Chase’s January 27 attacks also claimed Evelyn Miroth, her 6-year-old son, and her 22-month-old nephew.

Reports say Chase had a long history of psychiatric problems and had been in and out of mental health institutions. Investigators allege he sexually assaulted Evelyn Miroth with a knife, mutilated her body, and removed and cannibalized some of her organs. Police arrested Chase on February 1, 1978; a search of his apartment reportedly found extensive blood and filth and evidence that he had been drinking human blood. He was charged with six counts of first-degree murder.

At trial in 1979 the defense argued insanity; the jury found Chase sane and convicted him on all counts. He was sentenced to death and sent to San Quentin. Chase died by suicide on December 26, 1980, from an overdose of antidepressant medication.