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Public recreation area

Lake Berryessa attack area

Western Lake Berryessa, Napa County, California

Lake Berryessa, looking northeast from Oak Shore in May 2023. This is a general lake view, not a photograph identifying the precise 1969 attack site.
Lake Berryessa, looking northeast from Oak Shore in May 2023. This is a general lake view, not a photograph identifying the precise 1969 attack site. Image resized for display.James Postema · CC BY 4.0. Displayed to fit; photo may predate current conditions.

The Place in the Story

Bryan Hartnell and Cecelia Shepard were attacked beside the lake on September 27, 1969. Hartnell survived; Shepard died from her injuries.

Access & Visiting

Check the official visitor information for closures and restrictions. Public recreation at a park or lake does not guarantee access to the precise historical site.

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Explore the Case

Zodiac killings

The Zodiac attacked people in Northern California in the late 1960s and sent threatening letters and ciphers to newspapers. Five deaths are commonly attributed to the confirmed attacks. The killer’s identity remains unresolved, despite decades of suspects, books, films, and amateur investigations.

Books, Films, Reporting & Case Records →

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More Places in This Story

Sources & Photo Credits

Location history is summarized in our own words. Sources remain available for checking the record. Historical addresses do not establish public access.

Odd Stops · historical location reference

Location source review: 2026-09-14. Check the venue for current opening hours and restrictions.

Photographs are credited with their reuse licenses. Images belonging to other publishers are not included without a verified reuse basis.