I can also relate to the unorthodox family lifestyle. My dad ran cocaine when I was a kid. I had a good upbringing compared to most but really offbeat. I remember being with him making drops waiting in the car. I never knew what was actually happening (I was only 6-8 years old) but later my mom told me. But I do remember being in situations such as this man around older adults. I was always a listener and observer. Growing up I was in sketch situations but recognized and gtfo. It's reckless children living this way but some of the smartest/clever sotes lived similar lives Thank you everyone for the love. Life is crazy sometimes 🖤
Tony was my next door neighbor when I was a kid and he was such a great guy. I have SO many fond memories of him and his family. I never knew most of this and my mind is blown! Tony, if you happen to see this, I’m Tori! I hope you’re doing well!
Tori it's me Tony. I loved getting molested and almost killed by a gay clown. I wanted to throw you at him one time but he was so gay and didn't like girls even though I thought you were beautiful. I wish we hung out more
Same here. The ones who take the spotlight and talk over their guests are a dime a dozen. Mark's guests would probably talk for 5 hours if they could. Lol
@@jaybirddee3790 Yes! Oprah was the first one I thought of. She would bring a person on her show for an interview, but then she'd do probably 70% of the talking.
One thing I love that I’m not seeing in the comments is that he was so open with his parents that he IMMEDIATELY told them what happened that day. That goes to show how transparent they had to have been.
So thankful this man was able to escape and lived to tell this story. My heart goes out to all of the poor young boys and their families that didn't survive.
Gacy was in prison from 1968 to 1971 for sodomy of a boy, he says his story happened in 1970. How could that be possible? What other stories did he tell that were bullshit I wonder? The one about the guy getting murdered? The one about going from level 1 to level 6 prison. Cmon you wouldn’t risk going from level 1 to level 6. Only a complete idiot would take that risk over some prescription medicine.
This episode had everything - whiskey bootleggers, clandestine sawdust gambling shack, weed distribution, federal prison, serial killers, a life story, and a gentleman with a faultless easy-listening southern accent with a talent for a compelling narrative. He is a personified chapter in modern nefarious (yet endearing) Americana. This channel is officially in my top 5 must watch - for whatever that’s worth (the content is certainly worth a lot to me) - so thank you, yet again.
While i agree, and having listened carefully to his stories I feel it incumbent to paraphrase Maya Angelou here; when someone tells you who they it behooves you to heed them. I would love to pass an afternoon with him. He has more stories to tell.
When he said he looked over to the bathtub and it was completely filled with ice I got chills. Gacey planned it all out, filled the bathtub with ice so he could cool his body and keep it from decomposing and giving off an overwhelming odor. What a sick, sick dude.
@@robelamha3653yup, suuuuure mr Internet-rambo. I mean, yeah. lets just think it through - he might not be some tough MMA fighter, so okay, he‘s not tough in the usual sense - but he managed to rape, torture and kill 33 (young) men. Keep on living in your dreamworld where being afraid equals showing weakness & have fun living with your fragile masculine ego, acting like you wouldn’t be shitting your pants IF you were lucky enough to find out the dude you managed to escape from (and for people like you, that think they‘re the toughest mf‘er to ever exist… that is the biggest *if* in existence cause yall think youre tough & savvy but more often than not possess zero awareness thanks to your blatant ignorance of anyone who‘s not yourself, lol).
What's disturbing about that re-encounter is that clearly Gacy had no recolection of him but was there to find more victims as it was a spot full of young and naïve boys to prey upon. Likely was a spot where he had tortured and killed at least one other boy between 1970 and 1974 when he saw him again...Someone Tony likely would've been peers with or at least would have known about their "drowning".
Hello Mandy, it's a great pleasure meeting you here, may God bless you and your family... How are you doing over there? And how are your business and family?
@@Vetionarian I'm not so sure that Gacy didn't remember him, they say you always remember the one that got away. But, he was probably worried about admitting to it for fear of losing his cover and being called a child molester in front of his buddies.
“You have to give your kids opportunities to mess up, so they can protect themselves. They have to be students of human behavior… and you have to be a good listener.” Solid advice sir. There is such an urgency to protect the children at all costs that they are so fragile.. more so with every generation.
@@guillaumecollins548 the kids don’t want the antibiotics, their overbearing parents want them to take the antibiotics. Kids would be feral if they could be.
I don't feel comfortable with giving naive young people the opportunity to get messed up I prefer protecting them until they are capable and strong and aware
My heart was racing while listening to his story. The way he describes the encounters is incredibly visual. He survived because his senses were in-tact, and he wasn't drunk, otherwise this story would no longer exist.
Indeed. Just like the sole Dahmer survivor, he was able to formulate an escape plan in the most dire of circumstances. Fight or flight, but damn...easier said than done. I think a lot of people would have simply frozen up or panicked to the point of blowing their cover and allowing him to attack. Who knows what kind of guns and/or knives he had at his disposal that day...
My dad owned a beer and shot bar. When I was a kid in high school, I went to work there. I heard stories from the ol' Kentucky guys who sounded like this. His rhythm of speech, the pauses, the seamless continuation of the story, telling the ending without any fluctuations in his voice. What a fabulous storyteller. Very scary stories but fabulously told.
Yes! Absolutely excellent delivery! I listened to every word because he captures your attention with his delivery. I found it fascinating and informative. Definitely great content. 👍🏽💯✨
Hello Lori, it's a great pleasure meeting you here, may God bless you and your family... How are you doing over there? And how are your business and family?
My mom is good friends with Tony, he's such an awesome and caring man, and has done so much for us. Really awesome to know he made it through this experience, and a blessing to know him today.
But stupid of him not to escape when Gacy was in the bathroom a 2nd time and to just pull the cooler aside. Also, he should have told the desk clerk Ella what happened and Gacy would be caught then. Also, his Mom instead of smoking a cig should have called the police and Gacy would be caught then. Stupid people who caused many more to die by their inaction.
@@HowieHoward-ti3dxppl back then didn't know as much about serial killers as we know now. Like he said, he just thot Gacey was a weird guy. And he made it clear his family weren't the type to go to the police for things like that, w his story about the man who was stabbed. For a 14yo, he was incredibly smart in that situation and was lucky to get out of that motel room. You don't get to judge if you've never been in the same situation, and every criticism you had was addressed and explained w his stories. But lemme guess, you ran your mouth without listening to what he had to say. Typical
@HowieHoward-ti3dx so someone comments about how he was a great guy then u comment this I garuntee u would've been raped and killed by Gacy if it was u and just the type of person it takes to comment something like that I bet u wouldn't make it thru many real life experiences stick to watching RUclips ya goof
I was watching a video & it mentioned 1 or 2 of his countless victims escaped wasn’t expecting to see this on the feed this channel is high quality internet
@@caseymajor4803 He strikes me as straight up honest. He’s articulate, interesting but has zero interest in blowing his own horn. Of course I could be completely wrong! I’ve been fooled before.
@@caseymajor4803 He's legit. Less than a minute in, he says how he wishes his kids could've grown up like he did. Nobody full of shit's, gonna come swinging like that 🎉
@@caseymajor4803 by all accounts I read and supposedly verified by law enforcement investigators the only survivor was a guy that he picked up hitchhiking and jumped out the car or something to that effect , I think even Gacey spoke about it on his interviews
Jeff Rignall was a Gacy surviver. He wrote the book 29 below. He was tortured, raped, and almost drowned by gay and for sum reason let go in the morning. The cops didn't believe him or look Into his claims because he was gay.
Absolutely incredible. I could listen to Tony talk for hours. It's like you're there with him and it just flows. He brings you into that hotel room with Gacy and you can visualize it all. I love how Mark let's everyone talk without interruption. That's such a rarity and superb skill. Thank you Mark. Love your channel.
Everyone's basically been saying the same thing but he is a fantastic storyteller..I had some cocaine,beer and weed earlier somehow so I should be super hectic and unfocused but his storytelling is so great I'm in the room with him not here at all lol would love to hear more from this guys life
P. S. Absolutely amazing about Mark's technical and brilliant crafting to interviewing for the best of everything you have opulent skills friend and thanks again Dudes💯☮️💐🎖️
Tony is a very interesting guy I just think he should make sure to not allow anyone new into his life as it seems most of his encounters have been with people plotting to kill him.
Right. Tho I wouldn't even call it storytelling, bcuz that would imply he's inventing it, more like a detailed articulate account/recollection of events.
It's amazing how events like these stay so vivid in one's memory. All of the details Tony is mentioning paint such an intense picture. The dew hitting him in the face as he was riding home from escaping Gacy, the Wiedemann beer can, the towel Gacy threw around his own neck, the squinting of Gacy's eyes, describing how his Mom backed up against the kitchen counter with a cigarette when Tony relayed what had just happened to him. Tony's survival instincts were so amazing that night, especially for someone so young! Thank God he lived to tell the tale.
Yes, also, the weird juxtaposition of how his mother wanted to call Chicago police about her son's close call with Gacy in Kentucky and his father telling his son to never again mention the murder he was a witness to. In the end, the mother was right to inform authorities and The Chicago Tribune reporter could see the value, maybe even when the detectives couldn't.
@@ellensoucek1914 I had watched a 5 hour gacy video & it was suggesting a lot of evidence being botched up by the cops & courts because there was S. Trafficking involved the higher ups knew about & were clients. I got chills when he said his mom reported it & the cop brushed her off. I think gacy had more victims all over not just the bodies they found. The same is said in the dahmer case. I believe they could stop S. Trafficking over night if they really wanted to.
This man is a freaking legend. I loved listening to him tell his story. Truly admire him for sharing his experience with Gacy. Can’t imagine experiencing something so terrifying.
The guy is such a freaking legend, that neither he nor his idiot mother could be bothered to report this psychopath that showed him sex toys and tried to lock him in a room? Really?
My brother was 17yrs old and approched by gacy. We lived about 6 miles from Gacy. He pulled up to my brother and asked him if he wanted a job. My brother is learning disabled and had enough sense to run home.
Glad to know that your brother had an intuition that he should not follow any stranger that offers enticing things like candies, ice cream and money. As a millenial, it's crazy and mind-boggling to hear how 70s parents would simply let their teenage kids or their grown-up working children (if they still stay in their parents' home due to economic situation) to hitchhike strangers to get home and anywhere cheaply. No wonder so many brutal cases of serial killings were beginning to rise during the 70s.
May I ask where? Just wondering because I live in Iowa not too far from Waterloo where Gacy used to work for a while. Is there just was curious if it was in iowa, Chicago area, or elsewhere if you don't mind sharing. So glad your brother made a very smart and safe choice!!!!!! 💙
@punkstermom1984 it was in park ridge at the old village green parking lot on northwest highway. There used to be a a&p there. This was in 1975. Park Ridge, il
My grandfather taught me to always go with your gut. His ability to listen and, more importantly, believe that small voice that tells you to get out probably saved his life more than once. Great storyteller.
My young adult offspring told me about an establishment they were about to go into, but they said they got a bad vibe from the outside and chose to drive away. I told them, that was the best thing, and never get embarrassed to do that. A week later, someone got rob and killed inside ( well known case) and we reflected on their decision not to go into that same establishment because of the feeling they got that night. You have to go on gut feeling.
I feel nowadays children don’t have the same freedom to explore the world and they don’t get a chance to learn how to be streetwise or how to protect themselves from situations that don’t seem right.
I was in a situation around two older guys when I was younger when I suddenly felt the vibe shift, like I was being viewed as prey. It was very disturbing. I was lucky enough to recognize it and escape the situation in time, but it seriously shook me up.
I am so honored to listen to this. Tony, you are an amazing courageous human being. There’s a reason God has you here. Wonderful descriptive storyteller!
I’ve known Tony since I was little. Our moms worked together at Kenlake. Being younger I looked up to T and B. Played tennis on courts at same time. This story made chills run down my spine. Im sure his mom told mine much of this and was reason she always wanted to know who and where I was with
Your mom was very wise and especially these days with all the things happening to children and teenagers, the parents need to know where their children are and who their friends are.
I dont understand why at 15, he would go to drink a total stranger's room....? i mean i'm sorry but it sounds like he was selling himself or drugs or something....
@@markjacks3828 What! GTFO he was a boy being manipulated by a man, a boy that was around many men that were gambling and drinking all the time. I am a woman, and got myself into alot of sticky situations as a teenager. I had older siblings and always hungout with older people. My intuition, and my angels are the only reason im still here. I can relate to this mans life completely! Maybe you were helicopter parented, or you forgot what it was to be a teenager.
When I was growing up, my mom did not allow us to hang around with anybody older than our age. I assume because they knew more or experienced more by their age and also could be a bad example to us and lead us down a wrong path. She didn't want us to grow up too fast. I so understand that now and appreciate that. Ss I listen to this man's story, his father had an unorthodox way of raising his child so this is why he did not discern when he was in harm's way with the serial killer gacy, I get that but as he got older and he was in the situation with the guys about purchasing a truck and went along with them when he hardly knew them. To me he just seemed too trustworthy. I thought that after all he went through that he would have had different advise about the safety of children. I don't know about being a helicopter parent or not, but I do believe parents should always be protecting and guiding their children because children need guidance and protection.
To all the folks disbelieving him or becoming impatient with the details in his story, it's really important to understand that in the American South, storytelling is considered an art. The more details, the better the story, because it paints a picture in your head, lets you understand the setting, gives you context for all the "characters" in the story, and lets you relax into the flow of it. Sometimes storytelling isn't about a precise record and being correct about every little detail, but telling the truth of the narrative.
Boomers have to tell fanciful stories filled with slight punches of lies to keep their boring stories interesting. It is dishonest. I love a good story but I know it’s a story and not the truth
Haha, are you serious? Goes into a hotel room with a guy he doesn't know, guy brushes his hand on his ass, thinks nothing of it. Guy locks the door. No big deal. Guy offers a beer, cool. Guy opens suitcase full of porno mags... But they are all of boys. All good in the hood. Guy locks the deadbolt. Carry on fine sir. Guy opens suitcase and it's full of bondage gear. Hmmmm. So this guy has touched his ass, locked and dead bolted the door, been to the bathroom twice, showed him gay porn, which he apparently still kept perusing.... Maybe I should start thinking of an exit strategy. Wise beyond his years??? Dafuq?
What a storyteller. Masterful delivery--never rambled, never lost track of what he was saying, never buried the lede, just total control and clarity throughout.
Terrible storytelling. Some of you commenters need to get out and listen to real storytelling, it’s an art for many. This guy was awful, boring and rambling.
He speaks so eloquently. I'm so glad he survived his encounter with that disgusting animal. Before anyone comes to say "JWG was human, too" no he was not. Humanity was apart from him as he acted purely on perverse, sadistic urges to cause terror and harm to innocent young people. Stories like these are important.
They are extremely important because people like him and Dahmner weren't the first but more so they crossed that line and people before them who had these urges knew where the line was and kept to themselves never acting upon anything , but step forward to now it is free for all and people don't care what line they cross because there is no accountability , They need to set examples and resort to barbaric measures , Anyone who harms a child should be a televised execution in a Target parking lot and it will slowly stop , reinstilll putting right and wrong back into the distorted minds . But most unfortunate a very big problem has plagued this planet that is very real and needs to be exposed , Save the Children and stop the Adrenochrome !
He was not human at all..he denied killing all those boys until day he died..his last words were just as evil as he was! Gacy soul is right where it needs to be! People really do need to see the real truth about the brutality of their killings and how they got their victims, to save lives..seems kids lives are being targeted more and more..now pedophilia is being pushed in school systems, kids are going missing at higher numbers. Here in my state, there's 2 at large serial killers. One who is targeting native lands, killing kids and leaving them scattered by Rio Grande. The other is more than one, and they uncovered mass Graves where my sons and i use to ride dirt bikes. Most are women and children. I hope they're all caught and executed faster than Gacy long term stay in death row! It's important to safeguard our children.
Oh, no... Calling that sub-human creature an animal is actually a huge insult to animals. Nor is he human. IMHO - if you deliberately harm a child... if your 5 second muscle spasm is more important to you than someone else's lifetime of horrible pain... or even their life as a whole - you lose your humanity and should have zero human rights. Snapping you out of your miserable existence should not even be a crime... Some will disagree... But I have looked in the face of one such monster... and that's my stance.
His message at the end is something I will strive to remember every day: it's important to let your kids make their own mistakes, but teach them to be keen observers of human behavior. This is how my dad raised me, and although I never understood why as a kid, I appreciate it so much as an adult.
The fact that this guy escaped john wayne gacy and then saw him again and was brass enough to stand chest to chest to confront him?! Man! This guy has got balls of steel!😳😎💯
But stupid of him not to escape when Gacy was in the bathroom a 2nd time and to just pull the cooler aside. Also, he should have told the desk clerk Ella what happened and Gacy would be caught then. Also, his Mom instead of smoking a cig should have called the police and Gacy would be caught then. Stupid people who caused many more to die by their inaction.
@@HowieHoward-ti3dx it's easy to call everyone stupid when looking through our own 2023 lens but you're forgetting he was only 14 years old at the time. A boy who just encountered a strange man in a sexual environment especially when it wasn't as "out there" as it is now probably wanted to get to a familiar face as quickly as possible, and probably would've felt weird about describing that situation to a stranger only minutes later. He was just thinking "Get my bike and get the hell out of here" to the place he saw as the safest: home. You're also forgetting this is not the "Modern woman" era. This is back when women often still deferred to their husbands for direction, decision, and action. So it's understandable she wanted to wait for her husband to come home and hear her son's story, especially considering he was pretty much unharmed just talking about a what he felt was just a "weird man."
@@HowieHoward-ti3dx first of all you never know how you will react in a dangerous situation. You can talk all day long about should’ve done this or that, but the truth is during that present moment of danger, you never know how you will respond to it (especially a teenager) and 9 times out of 10 you will Not do what you “should’ve” done. Second of all, back then people were more trusting of each other and weren’t so quick to believe stories about sick-minded murderers and rapists
Being a victims of crime advocate who has talked to hundreds of victims and their family members and read just as many police reports in my 25 years I have to totally agree with HowieHoward. I wonder how many victims who didn’t make it out alive had those same fear instinct feelings but either didn’t do anything or was too slow to act. HowieHoward was right that at the time of Tony’s encounter was a completely different era of what we know now of sexual predators and serial killers. Him and his mom couldn’t even imagine someone like Gacy and what he was capable of doing. Every action he and his mom took was believable. Knowing what we know now we can sit and watch this video and think to ourselves all the things he should of done but that’s just not realistic during that era, his experience and his age. He did the right thing and of course survived because of it. Thank god for victim success stories.
This man’s story was incredible. The best part for me is that I never felt he embellished any part, just simply told what happened. So glad you could add his life’s story to your library of stories. Enjoyed it very much.
You're right, Tony didn't embellish. And told the stories with interesting detail. Except the detail of what happened after he told his mother what happened in the hotel room with the creepy guy trying to hold him hostage and showing him boy porn magazines and handcuffs and chains. Mom says let's chill. We'll mention it to your dad when he gets home at midnight. I was looking forward to this part of the story, weren't you? Man, I bet his dad was gonna be angry. I'm thinking dad's gonna throw mom and son in the car and drive to the police station right then and there. There's a child-predator on the loose. He's staying at the freaking resort! Man, that part of the story was gonna be good, right? Mom and dad to the rescue! But all we get is. "We'll tell your father when he gets home. Fast forward three years." Fast forward three years? Let's fast forward 6 years. By that time Gacy went on to rape, torture, and murder 33 young men and boys. 11:00 to 12:05 Mom waits until 1978 to call the cops. After Gacy was finally caught by cops and all the bodies found under his house. Tony says cop was rude to his mom on the phone. "Do you think someone calling us...some LADY calling us (nice touch Tony)...to report an incident after we found all the bodies is gonna do any good?" Cop was probably saying to her, "Hold on a second. You waited 8 years to tell us about this creep holding your son hostage in a hotel room?"
@@lisadawn3009 Wife: "How was your day sweetheart? I'll heat up the meatloaf for ya. You'll never guess who was on Dick Caveat tonight. Raquel Welch! By the way when you were at work some guy tried to rape and murder our son in a hotel room. I think they're re-running Caveat at 1. You want me to put it on?" Dad: "Don't forget honey that you work at the resort the hotel is at. Let's not make any trouble about it. Bad for business." Wife: "You really are a wise man. That's why I married you, heheheh." Son: "It's ok dad. You know I live for the adrenaline rush. That guy in the hotel room pumped me so full of adrenaline I thought I might burst! I hope the kids he meets after me get the same thrill I did."
So happy he survived and lived to tell his stories. I loved when he said "Mark, I feel like I am doing all the talking" shows that he is such a gentleman. Such a wonderful story teller. Loved this.
I haven't had advice like this since my old man would sit me down while he'd do his ironing for the week. For hours he'd talk...and I'd listen. He'd tell story after story.. and I'd listen. Then, when I was old enough to start making my own stories...he'd tell me that he put everything he could into me...the good, bad and ugly...and it was my time to figure out the rest. Men, like in this video, aren't around like they once were...but, his advice at the end was priceless (now that I'm a father of young boys) and my father isn't around for those ironing sessions anymore...I haven't enjoyed hearing an elder talk truth like that in many years. I'm appreciative. Thank you.
My daddy is from Alabama and my mother is from Kentucky. He makes me feel like I'm listening to one of my uncles.😄 He did a super good job! There's nothin like a SMART southern man with an even better SOUL.💛
His parents did him a great service by raising him the way the did - with awareness and letting him develop his gut and intuition. When he said Gacy wasn't acting like how any of the men he knew acted it gave him a reference point that the situation wasn't right. Amazing interview.
@@ghostman6074 I was raised around such things you mentioned. You learn things, good and bad. It creates awareness to both sides. I wasn't raised by hovering parents, so I learned the hard way, and best lessons are learned that way. To me anyhow because I was once a stubborn little shit and that was the only way I suppose, lol😆
@@gabagool_ovahere He talks about all the rough guys he was around as a kid and teenager. Gamblers and hard drinkers and fishing guides. Talks about how this made him ultra-aware or something, because he was a good listener. So surely he would have heard some of these hard-living roughnecks saying "Careful who ya' trust. There's a lot of creeps out there." E.g. "Prolly not a good idea for boys to befriend strange guys in leisure suits hanging out by the hotel pool. Much less go into their motel rooms." P.S. Funny. The two guys wanting to help him buy a truck were probably just regular guys wanting to help him buy a truck. Instead he jumps out their bathroom window. LOL
Tonys story is absolutely terrifying! Thank God he was able to escape but that must have been something that weighed on him for a long time. I wanted to share my story as well. I was a teenager and leaving my high school dance late at night. My mom was too busy on the phone to remember to get me and I couldn't get hold of her because we didn't have call waiting (this was in the 90s). Everyone left including teachers and students. I was alone and it was dark out. A man drove up in a car and asked if I was ok. I said yes and I was waiting for someone. He told me I could sit in his car while I waited. I declined. He said he was a teacher at the school so it was ok. This man was NOT a teacher. I knew all the teachers. He asked again and I said no and at that point he started to get out of his car and walk towards me. My heart was racing and I started backing away. I was terrified. At that point my mom pulled into the school parking lot and the man quickly got into his car and took off. That man was The Abbotsford Killer, Terry Driver. My story was verified many years later while working in federal corrections and I remember the chills I felt. I still do when I think about how different the outcome could have been.
Oh my goodness!!!!! God was looking after you that night. I hope your mother gave the school and teachers hell for leaving any student by themselves. Thanks for sharing your story!
This man is a natural storyteller. It would have been interesting to see a picture of Tony at age 14 and John Wayne Gacy in 1970 (at the time of their encounter).
My husband was a victim of JWG. From his own experience, he can give you a lot more details about things that he saw and things that he knows. He is actually willing to talk to you.
@@ladysudaandthegoddessmorri3217 if he contacts me, I can put them in touch! He is certainly open to the idea. He has a lot of information about his own personal encounter and so much more information about the actual things that happened. After all, his father was a cop up there!
You should have him document it.. you could write a book.. we could learn from his experience.. give people some insight into how a predator works as well as a way to learn to get out and hopefully avoid situations and predators... If your husband is a survivor of one of the most prolific serial predator/killers. Every detail could be valuable.. it's only a suggestion. You could make yourself some retirement money???..
@@shawnacothran3075 my husband wants to put his story out there because of all the families that are still missing their children and their other family members. His hope is to help them get some information to give them closure or whatever he can give them about their missing children.
I love that he felt safe to tell his parents what happened in that room. So many people have a traumatizing experience and hide it because they feel ashamed. They blame themselves for getting into a situation where they're in danger, or where they are harmed. He was able to tell both his parents, which reflects well on them for that part of his upbringing. But you do have to wonder why they didn't call the police? Was it because they didn't want police poking around Dad's illegal enterprises? Probably. Or maybe they didn't want nosy neighbors hearing about how their undersge son agreed to have a beer with a full grown man. As for having complete freedom, I grew up that way too and am not so sure it was a good thing. I could have used more guidance. I did a lot of stupid, risky stuff. I wasn't always the best judge of other people. What I did learn, though, is to listen to my gut. If something feels weird, then get out. And I think that like Tony, I learned how to talk to unstable or even evil people in a way that would keep them calm until I could figure out how to get away. I have to say, I was shocked when he started talking about federal prison. That came out of left field. And running marijuana with his boat! You know, he and I are the same age and up until I had a massive heart attack followed by a quadruple bypass that unfortunately left me with nerve damage, I worked for an agency caring for elderly people. (Prior to that, I was a reporter for about 30 years), and I discovered that every one of these folks had a story or two to tell. Even the clients with dementia still could remember and talk about their wild and crazy days. Of course, as a reporter, I got good at drawing people out. But Tony shows us you really cannot tell a book by its cover. Which is why it's also foolish to judge people, even people you've known a long time, because there's always so much more to their story than you may know.
So very well said! We (family of six kids) grew up with little to no supervision. One brother is a detective and another is a lifelong criminal. The one thing we all have in common is reading people. This man has lead an extremely scary and interesting life and I’m glad he’s still here to tell his stories.
I was a SA survivor and never spoke up. Thankyou for having the courage to tell your story. I am so glad you didnt end up a victim!!! You are a wonderful human. More than what he did to you
Great interview! And he is right that overprotection, over controlling, and helicopter parenting is harmful to kids. It doesn’t allow them to grow up. It makes them too compliant and over obedience can get a child into a lot of trouble. Being able to question adults and say no while also learning the balance of respect and responsible behavior is important.
Way before I had my son I was watching Oprah & she had Gavin DeBecker on. His book the Gift of Fear was just out. His gist as a security specialist was we were breeding the intuition sense out of our kids. You should fave natural fear in some situations. Be aware. Always stayed with me. As kids in the 70’s we were given a tremendous amount of freedom. Both my parents were from NYC & grew up in apts. Our house was a big house in NJ suburbs/farm town. They thought we couldn’t be safer.
I grew up in this guy's situation.. But worse . Helicopter parenting for the most part I am ... So, in that sense, I teach them what could happen in every circumstance. Tell them how to read people. Be aware of the situation or surroundings... No, never delt drugs or went to prison .I Knew what kind of people were in that business. Evidently, he did not use his southern skill to walk away. Already heard a guy get killed at a young age .. So yes, that's a good idea smuggling in weed ?? Good stories, though.
It unsettles me that Gacy was at Kenlake and stalking boys in my home state during the early 70’s. I worked for the KY state park system and frequented LBL as a student of parks and recreation at WKU and also a camp counselor. Thank God Tony had the insight to get away from that monster! Appreciate Tony’s gift of storytelling!
Wow. What a story. This is stuff you’d never expect from such an unassuming guy. He seems like a really nice guy who has been put in some really bad situations.
What a lovely Man... I could listen to him talk all day... You can tell they are all memories; & what a journey he's had.. So far.. Thanks Tony... & Mark.❤❤❤
Do you see how that is a bit demented? This is this man’s trauma. He is talking about how he was sexually assaulted. He w Asa as close to being raped and killed. Do you think this is fun for him to recall? No. It's exhausting. Respect this story and respect that he shouldn't have his trauma made into entertainment for you.
@@ringo5899 These stories are unbelievably valuable for information to help individuals protect themselves. Look up I Survived on A&E or deep survival before you start virtue signaling
Very well done, Mark....I loved how you gave him the floor, and didn't interrupt him, but just let him tell his story on his own time. This is one of my favorite videos that you've done. I wish this man the absolute best, and appreciate him taking the time to share part of his life story.
Yea mark is definitely good at knowing when someone can tell their own story effectively, and he just sits back. Some interviewers suck at that part, haha. They can still have good interviews, when their skill set of being involved and guiding it is useful, but they can’t ever do stuff like this as they’re getting in the middle of it constantly
I was in the city the other day and was at a CVS and there were two kids in there and an older man offering to buy them stuff and I went and told the employees and he seen me and left. Afterwards the lady workers watched the two kids leave to make sure the guy didn't come back and they told me he's some creepy homeless guy probably on drugs and has no money and just loiters. I still felt the police should have been called, it didn't sit right with me
I was almost raped, but I yelled out to Jesus. The rapist let go of my wrists. He was pulling me on my knees by my wrists. Jesus helped me to my feet, and I ran.
I think also if a kid is well loved and listened to, they learn to respect and listen to their own instincts. And this seemed to be key to this guy surviving two horrific situations.
Also the fact that he had been given responsibility, had been working and allowed a fair bit of independence, makes a big difference. As a farm kid I always had chores, responsibility for younger siblings and had a part time job at 11 years old. I was allowed to drive tractors at ten years old to go from one farm to the other to bring feed home, clip pastures, rake hay or pick stones etc. You learn a lot because you have to rely on yourself. You learn to think in times of crisis, and not panic. It builds resilience. Lots of times, it’s just pure luck that you survive though! Lol. If I had to count the times a cow or a horse kick almost took my head off, it wouldn’t be a small number!
I would have listened to Tony for several more hours and we know he has many more details and stories. Easy on the eyes, a voice for radio, acute situational and human awareness, sensational life experiences and an exceptional storyteller. I'd buy insurance from Tony any day. I'd buy an air conditioner for my home in Antarctica and anything else he's selling - which hopefully includes a book someday.
Every single one of Gacy's victims who didn't make it out alive had stories to tell just like Tony. They all had lives to live and it was all stolen from them. Very scary to think how many more victims there are that haven't been linked to Gacy.
Год назад+38
Contrary to the prevalent opinion, I do believe Gacy killed just the 33 young men he admitted to killing. His last words, "kiss my ass, you'll never find out where the others are," sounds like a bluff of a narcissistic man wanting to leave a last lingering impression. And I am not saying si because I like to differ: Dean Corll, John Wayne Gacy's unintentional mentor, has 28 murdered boys on his account, but I am positively sure he was killing boys before 1970, and their real number is probably up to 60.
@@zree758Right? He mentions his intuition several times, but my intuition wouldn’t have allowed me in the room with John, or in the truck with those two men
@@PhoenyxxFauxthink about pop culture back in 40s, 50s, 60s. Bad things happened, but I think there was more presumption of honor until proven otherwise? Plus, he might have been a bored kid looking for trouble, like swimming across a mile wide lake.
The details of his story are captivating! He remembers every detail and is able to convey it in a way that keeps you interested. Truly remarkable. What a story!
Mark you are by far one of the best docu style interviewers on the planet. There was no way to predict where this man's story was going to go and yet because you allow people the space to relax and start to open up, you get some of the most interesting interviews I've ever seen. Your work is excellent!
Agreed. Mark hit the nail on the head (again) with this interview. This guy (Tony) is a great storyteller, smart guy. Not many people can tell a story like this.
I was friends with Gacy's neighbor back in the 80's. Her father worked second shift and would see Gacy working in the yard in the middle of the night. They were friendly with Gacy and his wife and had no idea the horrors that were happening next door or what he might have accidently walked up on those nights he saw him "gardening" in the middle of the night.
One of my favorite interviews on this channel. Tony looks like an unassuming suburban dad but weaves a tumultuous tale that certainly lets his audience know that this is not the case. He seems like a such goodhearted, even-keeled man with much wisdom to share. This one kept me on the edge of my seat. I wish all the very best for Tony and his family.
He's telling a tall tale. There is ZERO evidence that Gacy was hanging out on the Kentucky-Tennessee border or that he sought any victims outside of Chicago.
I am astounded that Tony felt comfortable telling his parents about that encounter. What a fantastic escape he made. Amazing all that he observed, and how successfully he survived. Thank you for telling us this story.
Can you please give him a part 2. I couldn't stop listening to his story. He really should write a book of his life. I'd buy it in a heart beat. Thank you
Omg as he is telling the story when Gacy went to the restroom and he was thinking of what to do, my heart is literally POUNDING. I can imagine myself in his shoes. He really is a great story teller.
As someone who was shocked and astounded by the Gacy case, in addition to reading several books about him, this is absolutely fascinating to me. Thank you to Mark and this interviewed man. Outstanding.
As a fellow child abduction survivor, I totally relate to his story about time standing still and the exact moment when you realize you're in grave danger. Funnily enough my childhood was similar to his in other ways as well. What an amazing storyteller
I can pretty much tell he’s not lying but he wouldn’t ever comment on RUclips videos so this comment is likely BS This guy was also “coerced” into group sex with Ron Jeremy lmao. Make of that info what you will
Every once in awhile Mark comes across a gem of a story teller. This is one of those times. I've always told my kids listen to your gut if the situation don't feel right get out of there.
23:33 " he was a painter but really he was a drinker " sorry man I'm not trying to be rude but that is too funny , work hard , play hard . Its important to avoid alcohol at work , you'll waste time on the job site
@@zackriederer4243 That would be wild to go into this much detail for no reason. He gained nothing by doing this. A few bucks from the channel owner, but thats it. Like why would anybody do this just to make shit up?
@@zackriederer4243 the only part of his story that didn't make sense was how he said he ran away from the hotel room and told his parents about the encounter with the stranger but the parents didn't do anything?? He didn't mention if he had siblings either , if he had told his siblings , the siblings would probably show up with baseball bats at the guys room , ya I don't think this guy acted alone , I think he probably had some sort of help , he was just the fall guy
Listening to Tony just solidified my belief in always listening to your gut. Especially women, we are so trained and socialized to be polite, follow social norms, don't be disruptive etc that we often ignore our initial gut feelings. That instinct has literally saved my life on so many occasions. Pay attention to your inner voice and follow it. I would rather be embarrassed or have people think I'm weird then find myself in a situation I can't get out of. Thanks for your stories and insight Tony.
" Especially women, we are so trained and socialized to be polite, follow social norms, don't be disruptive etc..." I have to respectfully disagree. In the last 50 years, it seems to me, that society has been urging women to be the opposite of the traits that you listed. Young girls are taught to be rebels and independent. Taught to cast off old patriarchal traditions of oppression.
@@Frip36 fifty years is still a very short time when one is talking about changing behaviour as a society. There thousands of years of conditioning to undo first.
How Mark continues to procure these people from high profile cases is beyond comprehension. What an absolutely terrifying scenario. Reminds me of the court testimony of that Dahmer survivor. Amidst all the garbage popping up daily by self-proclaimed 'content creators,' every once in awhile you'll discover a hidden gem. Absolutely one of the best channels on RUclips.
@Wesley alan why would he want to? He doesn't have an audience of almost 5 million. The bigger the channel gets the more money you make hence the bigger an better the guest get. It's not rocket science.
@@rjskum688 You skimmed right over the point i was making, and you brought up other points. I for one, understand your points thourghly...I figured someone would say what you said.
@@peachylady I mean, running into him twice, being in fed prison with one of the worst people ever, etc...... I believe him but I can see people that call baloney
Yeah, I have believed all of Mark's interviewees until this guy. I WANT to believe him, but anyone who watches psychoanalysis of cop interrogations will tell you liars throw in superfluous irrelevant details to sound more believable.
This guy needs to write a book, sorry he went through his encounter with that sadistic being, but glad to see he was able to turn things around and have such a natural talent for sharing his stories.
I also narrowly escaped from a psycho when I was 15 and hitch hiking. Also, I lived in the Chicago suburbs and remember the Gacy killings very well. A friend of mine was 16 and working with his dad doing industrial floor cleaning at a new drugstore. Gacy was also doing some contracting there and asked my friend to come to his house for a barbecue. Luckily, his dad got the willies from Gacy and wouldn't let him go. Im so glad Tony got away, he seems like a really cool guy.
I remember the Dahmer case as well. He lived in Milwaukee which isn't terribly far from Chicago but it was close enough for a ton of news coverage. Allegedly he did come into Chicago to cruise the gay bars looking for victims but I never met anyone that had any kind of encounter with him.
I’m late to this, but, my mom grew up in Washington state. When she was 13 or 14 a man in his early 20’s approached her at a park holding a dog leash. He told her his puppy got lost and asked if she could help him find the lost puppy. She agreed and he started leading her to a more secluded area of the park where he said he lost the puppy. She said he was intensely staring at her the whole time, and when she asked what the puppy’s name was he got all flustered. She got a super bad feeling, and just turned and ran back to where people were at the park. Years later she saw the same man’s mugshot on TV for heinous crimes. It was Ted Bundy
I could listen to this guys stories for hours on end. I don’t know the last time I’ve watched a video that completely enthralled me. Easily one of my favorite videos on this channel.
Watching this, all of a sudden my life made sense from my childhood upbringing and experiences. Twice I was able to get out of predicaments that I feel sure my life would have been taken. I remember distinctly getting that warning vibe prior. This story was awesome and brings gratitude for my childhood experiences.
Same here TWICE....in 78 and 81 as a young teenager, i was taught situational awareness much younger. My smart father saved my life twice by simply taking the time to talk to me about the dangers of some humans, that i'd instantly recognize danger and he was right. Glad you made it out as well !! Best wishes and hope you have a great, safe upcoming summer ma'am.
I've never been a target of human predators but I have come close to losing my life because of my dumb actions when I was younger. Funnily at the moment I never realized how lucky I had gotten but usually years later it suddenly hit me how close to death I had been.
Tony’s story is fascinating. He listened to his gut instincts and that saved him from being a Gacy victim. His instincts also kept him alive when he encountered dangerous situations
As a parent of 2 Boys, I appreciated hearing your stories. It’s a fine balance between protecting your children and preparing them in regards to human behavior.
![Noob To Max With DRAGON REWORK In Blox Fruits [FULL MOVIE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LnBMOinoOvA/mqdefault.jpg)
Situational awareness is one of the most valuable things a human can possess. This is a wise man right here
I can also relate to the unorthodox family lifestyle. My dad ran cocaine when I was a kid. I had a good upbringing compared to most but really offbeat. I remember being with him making drops waiting in the car. I never knew what was actually happening (I was only 6-8 years old) but later my mom told me. But I do remember being in situations such as this man around older adults. I was always a listener and observer. Growing up I was in sketch situations but recognized and gtfo. It's reckless children living this way but some of the smartest/clever sotes lived similar lives
Thank you everyone for the love. Life is crazy sometimes 🖤
@@JPo.404in a strange way its probably good your dad took you on those drops. It heightened your awareness of evil people. Possibly saved your life.
Yes! And stems at least in part from a certain amount of self- confidence instilled at a very early age...
Always trust your instincts.
He was 13 years old when it happened. Lol
Tony was my next door neighbor when I was a kid and he was such a great guy. I have SO many fond memories of him and his family. I never knew most of this and my mind is blown! Tony, if you happen to see this, I’m Tori! I hope you’re doing well!
So cool!!!
I hope he sees this
Would be nice if the creator shared your info emwith Tony!
I also live and grew up in marshall co. we run around aroura all the time creepy now knowing Gasy roamed this area.
Tori it's me Tony. I loved getting molested and almost killed by a gay clown. I wanted to throw you at him one time but he was so gay and didn't like girls even though I thought you were beautiful. I wish we hung out more
I like how Mark lets the people tell their full story without interruption. I wish more interviewers would do this.
Same here. The ones who take the spotlight and talk over their guests are a dime a dozen. Mark's guests would probably talk for 5 hours if they could. Lol
That's how it's supposed to be
He let's them go
Enphatically agree. That’s why I’ve never understood why anyone thought Oprah was a good interviewer. She’s awful! It’s all about her.
@@jaybirddee3790 Yes! Oprah was the first one I thought of. She would bring a person on her show for an interview, but then she'd do probably 70% of the talking.
Being articulate isn't always using fancy words. It's being a good story teller like this man.
Absolutely...his life story was fascinating!!
Fully agree!
La misma impresión me lleve. Es un excelente narrador.
He's a wonderful storyteller. His recall of details is excellent.
why use big word when small word do trick?
One thing I love that I’m not seeing in the comments is that he was so open with his parents that he IMMEDIATELY told them what happened that day. That goes to show how transparent they had to have been.
And they did nothing when their son was almost killed. I don't get it.
Yeah, dad was honest about his profession, and he was honest with his parents.
@@TheSaltydog07His mother DID call the Chicago police- it wasn’t their jurisdiction, and they were more focused on the bodies under the house.
@@nacholibreri That was 3 years later, not immediately after the incident. You obviously don't listen.
@@TheSaltydog07had he been my kid I'd have been on that immediately
So thankful this man was able to escape and lived to tell this story. My heart goes out to all of the poor young boys and their families that didn't survive.
Why are you so thankful?
@@kristopheranderson53?
Gacy was in prison from 1968 to 1971 for sodomy of a boy, he says his story happened in 1970. How could that be possible? What other stories did he tell that were bullshit I wonder? The one about the guy getting murdered? The one about going from level 1 to level 6 prison. Cmon you wouldn’t risk going from level 1 to level 6. Only a complete idiot would take that risk over some prescription medicine.
@@kristopheranderson53 that's a stupid question
@@kristopheranderson53 your bored aren't u
This episode had everything - whiskey bootleggers, clandestine sawdust gambling shack, weed distribution, federal prison, serial killers, a life story, and a gentleman with a faultless easy-listening southern accent with a talent for a compelling narrative. He is a personified chapter in modern nefarious (yet endearing) Americana. This channel is officially in my top 5 must watch - for whatever that’s worth (the content is certainly worth a lot to me) - so thank you, yet again.
@@MsBaztastic He is a professional. He writes under the name Dean Koontz.
Well said, Dean! I couldn’t have put it better myself.
His dad loved him and prepared him for life, he was too streetwise if you will, to allow himself to be victimized and he listened to his instincts.
@@MsBaztastic that’s very kind of you - thanks.
@@MsBaztastici was gonna say something similar. Very well spoken comment
This guy is such a gifted storyteller that he didn't even need an interviewer. Fascinating, I could have listened to him talk for hours
Same! He’s very matter of fact, not a lot of drama.
Amazing story! Such a nice guy.
...one of the many aces up his sleeve, I'm sure
Fellow Tennessean here, this is how older folks talk. Never be impatient. The real stories are always in the details. Good interview.
I've noticed that too. With some people, you don't get to the good stuff until about 20 minutes in.
Yep.
Just be polite & ask them how it was growing up.
So surreal being on this side...it goes by so fast.
My mother is like this. Takes her 20 mins to tell a 10 second story lol. I really should try being more patient with her though...
I really like this kind of story telling I wouldn't understand not liking it honestly 😂
I’m not from TN or anything but I respect this kind of story telling..it leaves no room for questions lol🤓🥰
Could have listened to this guy talk for another hour, such a great story teller. He seems like a genuinely nice man too.
Pretty dumb and naive 😂
thats that southern charm
Same!
While i agree, and having listened carefully to his stories I feel it incumbent to paraphrase Maya Angelou here; when someone tells you who they it behooves you to heed them. I would love to pass an afternoon with him. He has more stories to tell.
Yes! My favorite interview so far!
When he said he looked over to the bathtub and it was completely filled with ice I got chills. Gacey planned it all out, filled the bathtub with ice so he could cool his body and keep it from decomposing and giving off an overwhelming odor. What a sick, sick dude.
YES! In his storytelling that ‘little’ fact just rolled off his tongue so smoothly, but it’s actually a major and creepy piece of the story.
I find it kinda practical.
Yeah and if there were drownings that ppl started thinking weren’t drownings… maybe that’s also how
@@SinisterNLso edgy
@Repent and believe in Jesus Christ go away ... no one is interested
The fact that he squared up to JWG face to face has to be considered an all time savage move. This story was amazing
"Yes you do, I'm not 14 anymore" 🎉
He pressed John Gacy, respect.
His story could legit be a hollywood movie
John gacy is not tough bro 😂
@@robelamha3653yup, suuuuure mr Internet-rambo. I mean, yeah. lets just think it through - he might not be some tough MMA fighter, so okay, he‘s not tough in the usual sense - but he managed to rape, torture and kill 33 (young) men. Keep on living in your dreamworld where being afraid equals showing weakness & have fun living with your fragile masculine ego, acting like you wouldn’t be shitting your pants IF you were lucky enough to find out the dude you managed to escape from (and for people like you, that think they‘re the toughest mf‘er to ever exist… that is the biggest *if* in existence cause yall think youre tough & savvy but more often than not possess zero awareness thanks to your blatant ignorance of anyone who‘s not yourself, lol).
I love when Tony got to address Gacy a few years later. “yes you do, I’m not 14 anymore” phenomenal
What's disturbing about that re-encounter is that clearly Gacy had no recolection of him but was there to find more victims as it was a spot full of young and naïve boys to prey upon. Likely was a spot where he had tortured and killed at least one other boy between 1970 and 1974 when he saw him again...Someone Tony likely would've been peers with or at least would have known about their "drowning".
Hello Mandy,
it's a great pleasure meeting you here, may God bless you and your family... How are you doing over there? And how are your business and family?
@@timothygeorgefay1 Nobody's sending you gift cards. Go away.
@@LAkadian factual. This is a story about an abuser and yet this asshole can only send copy and paste responses. Disgusting
@@Vetionarian I'm not so sure that Gacy didn't remember him, they say you always remember the one that got away. But, he was probably worried about admitting to it for fear of losing his cover and being called a child molester in front of his buddies.
“You have to give your kids opportunities to mess up, so they can protect themselves. They have to be students of human behavior… and you have to be a good listener.” Solid advice sir. There is such an urgency to protect the children at all costs that they are so fragile.. more so with every generation.
Kids cut themselves with a paper clip and want antibiotics!
@@guillaumecollins548 the kids don’t want the antibiotics, their overbearing parents want them to take the antibiotics. Kids would be feral if they could be.
I don't feel comfortable with giving naive young people the opportunity to get messed up I prefer protecting them until they are capable and strong and aware
@@guillaumecollins548 huh
We had parks with monkey bars and solid ground if you fell off. Yes you’d get hurt but you learn from it.
My heart was pounding when he was in that room as a 14 year old boy. As a mother with only one child…I can’t even.
Thank God he survived ! 🙏
Me too!!
Ikr....geez😣
Most people actually believe that this guys story is most likely not Gaci and probably didn't happen at all
I'm the same and i don't even have kids . These people is horrific .
I like the way he speaks. No rambling, and on point.
My heart was racing while listening to his story. The way he describes the encounters is incredibly visual. He survived because his senses were in-tact, and he wasn't drunk, otherwise this story would no longer exist.
what a memory he has!
Indeed. Just like the sole Dahmer survivor, he was able to formulate an escape plan in the most dire of circumstances. Fight or flight, but damn...easier said than done. I think a lot of people would have simply frozen up or panicked to the point of blowing their cover and allowing him to attack. Who knows what kind of guns and/or knives he had at his disposal that day...
'intact'
@@helmutsecke3529 you make a fine candidate for a Gacy toy.
@@TingTingalingy Dein Vater war einen Schwuler.
My dad owned a beer and shot bar. When I was a kid in high school, I went to work there. I heard stories from the ol' Kentucky guys who sounded like this. His rhythm of speech, the pauses, the seamless continuation of the story, telling the ending without any fluctuations in his voice. What a fabulous storyteller. Very scary stories but fabulously told.
He’s great at story telling!
He had my attention the entire time. Definitely a great storyteller.
I hope he will be here to tell more! This was awesome ❤
Yes! Absolutely excellent delivery! I listened to every word because he captures your attention with his delivery. I found it fascinating and informative. Definitely great content. 👍🏽💯✨
Hello Lori,
it's a great pleasure meeting you here, may God bless you and your family... How are you doing over there? And how are your business and family?
He’s a great story teller. Easy to watch and to listen to. He’s wise also. “Our children need to be students of human behavior.” Thank you!
Agreed, I would love to see more interviews like this. You don't have to be a gang member, pimp, drug addict, etc to have interesting stories
Yeah, man. It’s ridiculous out here. Be safe😉
Yes he is a good story teller😉
Yes, very easy listening, maybe missed his true vocation?
The heart is deceitful above all things,
And desperately wicked;
Who can know it? - Jeremiah 17:9
Because God never warned us, right?
When I’m having a bad day I listen again to this one. After a year of listening, it strikes me but for the grace of God this bloke is alive
My mom is good friends with Tony, he's such an awesome and caring man, and has done so much for us. Really awesome to know he made it through this experience, and a blessing to know him today.
But stupid of him not to escape when Gacy was in the bathroom a 2nd time and to just pull the cooler aside. Also, he should have told the desk clerk Ella what happened and Gacy would be caught then. Also, his Mom instead of smoking a cig should have called the police and Gacy would be caught then. Stupid people who caused many more to die by their inaction.
@@HowieHoward-ti3dxppl back then didn't know as much about serial killers as we know now. Like he said, he just thot Gacey was a weird guy. And he made it clear his family weren't the type to go to the police for things like that, w his story about the man who was stabbed. For a 14yo, he was incredibly smart in that situation and was lucky to get out of that motel room. You don't get to judge if you've never been in the same situation, and every criticism you had was addressed and explained w his stories. But lemme guess, you ran your mouth without listening to what he had to say. Typical
@@freddywesly Seems like you ran your mouth. Look in the mirror.
@HowieHoward-ti3dx so someone comments about how he was a great guy then u comment this I garuntee u would've been raped and killed by Gacy if it was u and just the type of person it takes to comment something like that I bet u wouldn't make it thru many real life experiences stick to watching RUclips ya goof
Tell her to tell him he's a fantastic storyteller. Didn't want it to end, and I'm sure he's got more adventures tell.
I was watching a video & it mentioned 1 or 2 of his countless victims escaped wasn’t expecting to see this on the feed this channel is high quality internet
Pretty sure it was only one… trying to figure if this guy is legit?
@@caseymajor4803
He strikes me as straight up honest. He’s articulate, interesting but has zero interest in blowing his own horn. Of course I could be completely wrong! I’ve been fooled before.
@@caseymajor4803 He's legit. Less than a minute in, he says how he wishes his kids could've grown up like he did. Nobody full of shit's, gonna come swinging like that 🎉
@@caseymajor4803 by all accounts I read and supposedly verified by law enforcement investigators the only survivor was a guy that he picked up hitchhiking and jumped out the car or something to that effect , I think even Gacey spoke about it on his interviews
Jeff Rignall was a Gacy surviver. He wrote the book 29 below. He was tortured, raped, and almost drowned by gay and for sum reason let go in the morning. The cops didn't believe him or look Into his claims because he was gay.
Absolutely incredible. I could listen to Tony talk for hours. It's like you're there with him and it just flows. He brings you into that hotel room with Gacy and you can visualize it all. I love how Mark let's everyone talk without interruption. That's such a rarity and superb skill. Thank you Mark. Love your channel.
Everyone's basically been saying the same thing but he is a fantastic storyteller..I had some cocaine,beer and weed earlier somehow so I should be super hectic and unfocused but his storytelling is so great I'm in the room with him not here at all lol would love to hear more from this guys life
❤🎉😊 THAT part 〽️ toatz mcgoatz 💯👑🎖️🌹
P. S. Absolutely amazing about Mark's technical and brilliant crafting to interviewing for the best of everything you have opulent skills friend and thanks again Dudes💯☮️💐🎖️
Honestly his details are amazing.
@@badbassninejust checking on ya you doing ok this am lol ?
Tony has the most gentle, relaxing voice! I could listen to him all day 😊
What an interesting guy. You don't often get a chance to hear this kind of storytelling and intelligence, plus modesty of all things!
Right, not one cus word! Kinda nice for this channel 😂
Tony is a very interesting guy I just think he should make sure to not allow anyone new into his life as it seems most of his encounters have been with people plotting to kill him.
Right. Tho I wouldn't even call it storytelling, bcuz that would imply he's inventing it, more like a detailed articulate account/recollection of events.
I didn't want it to end. What a character!
@@RyleyKvernum same!
It's amazing how events like these stay so vivid in one's memory. All of the details Tony is mentioning paint such an intense picture. The dew hitting him in the face as he was riding home from escaping Gacy, the Wiedemann beer can, the towel Gacy threw around his own neck, the squinting of Gacy's eyes, describing how his Mom backed up against the kitchen counter with a cigarette when Tony relayed what had just happened to him. Tony's survival instincts were so amazing that night, especially for someone so young! Thank God he lived to tell the tale.
Yes, also, the weird juxtaposition of how his mother wanted to call Chicago police about her son's close call with Gacy in Kentucky and his father telling his son to never again mention the murder he was a witness to. In the end, the mother was right to inform authorities and The Chicago Tribune reporter could see the value, maybe even when the detectives couldn't.
@@ellensoucek1914 Agreed! Good point.
@@ellensoucek1914 I had watched a 5 hour gacy video & it was suggesting a lot of evidence being botched up by the cops & courts because there was S. Trafficking involved the higher ups knew about & were clients. I got chills when he said his mom reported it & the cop brushed her off. I think gacy had more victims all over not just the bodies they found. The same is said in the dahmer case.
I believe they could stop S. Trafficking over night if they really wanted to.
Of course they do. They are traumatic. You could never forget almost being murdered.
And he looks like a regular old man who is friends with my dad.
This man is a freaking legend. I loved listening to him tell his story. Truly admire him for sharing his experience with Gacy. Can’t imagine experiencing something so terrifying.
It wasn't half as terrifying as when he realized who the creep was.
He's a fucking idiot and the fact that they didn't pursue the attempted kidnapping meant Gact was able to go on to torture all those boys to death.
He was involved in politics and he was involved with judges not at the parks
He has a good guardian angel
The guy is such a freaking legend, that neither he nor his idiot mother could be bothered to report this psychopath that showed him sex toys and tried to lock him in a room? Really?
My brother was 17yrs old and approched by gacy. We lived about 6 miles from Gacy. He pulled up to my brother and asked him if he wanted a job. My brother is learning disabled and had enough sense to run home.
Wow
Yes, Wow and thank God for that
Glad to know that your brother had an intuition that he should not follow any stranger that offers enticing things like candies, ice cream and money. As a millenial, it's crazy and mind-boggling to hear how 70s parents would simply let their teenage kids or their grown-up working children (if they still stay in their parents' home due to economic situation) to hitchhike strangers to get home and anywhere cheaply. No wonder so many brutal cases of serial killings were beginning to rise during the 70s.
May I ask where? Just wondering because I live in Iowa not too far from Waterloo where Gacy used to work for a while. Is there just was curious if it was in iowa, Chicago area, or elsewhere if you don't mind sharing. So glad your brother made a very smart and safe choice!!!!!! 💙
@punkstermom1984 it was in park ridge at the old village green parking lot on northwest highway. There used to be a a&p there. This was in 1975. Park Ridge, il
My grandfather taught me to always go with your gut. His ability to listen and, more importantly, believe that small voice that tells you to get out probably saved his life more than once. Great storyteller.
My young adult offspring told me about an establishment they were about to go into, but they said they got a bad vibe from the outside and chose to drive away. I told them, that was the best thing, and never get embarrassed to do that. A week later, someone got rob and killed inside ( well known case) and we reflected on their decision not to go into that same establishment because of the feeling they got that night. You have to go on gut feeling.
'Young adult offspring'. You must be afraid to say SON or DAUGHTER. @@hardworkmcgee2998
Isn't he?
I feel nowadays children don’t have the same freedom to explore the world and they don’t get a chance to learn how to be streetwise or how to protect themselves from situations that don’t seem right.
Interesting story. Good at telling his story!
I was in a situation around two older guys when I was younger when I suddenly felt the vibe shift, like I was being viewed as prey. It was very disturbing. I was lucky enough to recognize it and escape the situation in time, but it seriously shook me up.
Scary!
Sketchy- must’ve made an impression if you still remember it as being scary
It's crazy how you can feel the atmosphere change and how observant the predator is. That moment when they know that you know is dangerous as hell.
Most women have this.
Because we are prey.
Fight or flight
I could listen to him talk all day! He is an excellent storyteller and has a terrific voice. Thank you, Tony!! Thank you, Mark!
I know and there's something dreamy about him.
I am so honored to listen to this. Tony, you are an amazing courageous human being. There’s a reason God has you here. Wonderful descriptive storyteller!
I’ve known Tony since I was little. Our moms worked together at Kenlake. Being younger I looked up to T and B. Played tennis on courts at same time. This story made chills run down my spine. Im sure his mom told mine much of this and was reason she always wanted to know who and where I was with
Your mom was very wise and especially these days with all the things happening to children and teenagers, the parents need to know where their children are and who their friends are.
I dont understand why at 15, he would go to drink a total stranger's room....? i mean i'm sorry but it sounds like he was selling himself or drugs or something....
@@markjacks3828 What! GTFO he was a boy being manipulated by a man, a boy that was around many men that were gambling and drinking all the time. I am a woman, and got myself into alot of sticky situations as a teenager. I had older siblings and always hungout with older people. My intuition, and my angels are the only reason im still here.
I can relate to this mans life completely!
Maybe you were helicopter parented, or you forgot what it was to be a teenager.
When I was growing up, my mom did not allow us to hang around with anybody older than our age. I assume because they knew more or experienced more by their age and also could be a bad example to us and lead us down a wrong path. She didn't want us to grow up too fast. I so understand that now and appreciate that. Ss I listen to this man's story, his father had an unorthodox way of raising his child so this is why he did not discern when he was in harm's way with the serial killer gacy, I get that but as he got older and he was in the situation with the guys about purchasing a truck and went along with them when he hardly knew them. To me he just seemed too trustworthy. I thought that after all he went through that he would have had different advise about the safety of children. I don't know about being a helicopter parent or not, but I do believe parents should always be protecting and guiding their children because children need guidance and protection.
@@markjacks3828 wow your victim blaming a child with an under developed mind
To all the folks disbelieving him or becoming impatient with the details in his story, it's really important to understand that in the American South, storytelling is considered an art.
The more details, the better the story, because it paints a picture in your head, lets you understand the setting, gives you context for all the "characters" in the story, and lets you relax into the flow of it.
Sometimes storytelling isn't about a precise record and being correct about every little detail, but telling the truth of the narrative.
Well said, very good points . The adhd generation often miss the subtleties 😂
He did this because he’s trying to hide the fact that he went to the room for $ex
Well said.
@@westcoastorbust2462No, he did not you idiot.
Boomers have to tell fanciful stories filled with slight punches of lies to keep their boring stories interesting. It is dishonest. I love a good story but I know it’s a story and not the truth
A horrific encounter, told so well by Tony that it is impossible to stop watching. Even at 15, he was wise beyond his years.
if he was wise he would have never gotten in that situation
@@MsTambo-hn8vrNobody is terribly wise at 14. You still kinda think that grownups are trustworthy. In the end, he got out. Most didn't.
@@wintergirl8
Especially boys...Glad, I'm a woman, I was very insightful, nothing's changed....but I'm not normal...😉
Haha, are you serious?
Goes into a hotel room with a guy he doesn't know, guy brushes his hand on his ass, thinks nothing of it. Guy locks the door. No big deal. Guy offers a beer, cool. Guy opens suitcase full of porno mags... But they are all of boys. All good in the hood.
Guy locks the deadbolt. Carry on fine sir.
Guy opens suitcase and it's full of bondage gear. Hmmmm.
So this guy has touched his ass, locked and dead bolted the door, been to the bathroom twice, showed him gay porn, which he apparently still kept perusing....
Maybe I should start thinking of an exit strategy.
Wise beyond his years??? Dafuq?
Who is john Wayne Gacy
I could listen to this guy talk for hours. What an amazing life he’s had and to be able to tell it all without an ounce of anger is so impressive.
What a storyteller. Masterful delivery--never rambled, never lost track of what he was saying, never buried the lede, just total control and clarity throughout.
How was the guy that got stabbed in the woods relevant though to the gacy escape though? that part felt like a dead end and not relevant.
No, he would veer off here and there...
Terrible storytelling. Some of you commenters need to get out and listen to real storytelling, it’s an art for many. This guy was awful, boring and rambling.
lead not lede
@@shari9721 I think as humans it's only natural for that to happen.... Misspelling....
He speaks so eloquently. I'm so glad he survived his encounter with that disgusting animal. Before anyone comes to say "JWG was human, too" no he was not. Humanity was apart from him as he acted purely on perverse, sadistic urges to cause terror and harm to innocent young people. Stories like these are important.
They are extremely important because people like him and Dahmner weren't the first but more so they crossed that line and people before them who had these urges knew where the line was and kept to themselves never acting upon anything , but step forward to now it is free for all and people don't care what line they cross because there is no accountability , They need to set examples and resort to barbaric measures , Anyone who harms a child should be a televised execution in a Target parking lot and it will slowly stop , reinstilll putting right and wrong back into the distorted minds . But most unfortunate a very big problem has plagued this planet that is very real and needs to be exposed , Save the Children and stop the Adrenochrome !
He was not human at all..he denied killing all those boys until day he died..his last words were just as evil as he was! Gacy soul is right where it needs to be!
People really do need to see the real truth about the brutality of their killings and how they got their victims, to save lives..seems kids lives are being targeted more and more..now pedophilia is being pushed in school systems, kids are going missing at higher numbers.
Here in my state, there's 2 at large serial killers. One who is targeting native lands, killing kids and leaving them scattered by Rio Grande. The other is more than one, and they uncovered mass Graves where my sons and i use to ride dirt bikes. Most are women and children. I hope they're all caught and executed faster than Gacy long term stay in death row!
It's important to safeguard our children.
Always trust your instincts and intuition. That little voice only whispers to you once -- listen to it and take it seriously!
Oh, no... Calling that sub-human creature an animal is actually a huge insult to animals.
Nor is he human.
IMHO - if you deliberately harm a child... if your 5 second muscle spasm is more important to you than someone else's lifetime of horrible pain... or even their life as a whole - you lose your humanity and should have zero human rights.
Snapping you out of your miserable existence should not even be a crime...
Some will disagree... But I have looked in the face of one such monster... and that's my stance.
@@mariamsuma4548 100% side with you!
His message at the end is something I will strive to remember every day: it's important to let your kids make their own mistakes, but teach them to be keen observers of human behavior. This is how my dad raised me, and although I never understood why as a kid, I appreciate it so much as an adult.
My mom was the same. I'm always side-eyeing. You don't have my trust until you earn it.
Not if a life lesson results in a life sentence.
I was always taught to go with my feeling about situations. That means observing human behavior. It is a valuable skill.
Hope Tony's kid didn't make some of those mistakes!
Oof there is making mistakes then there is makes THESE life threatening mistakes.
The bathtub with ice made my skin crawl. What an absolute monster.
The fact that this guy escaped john wayne gacy and then saw him again and was brass enough to stand chest to chest to confront him?! Man! This guy has got balls of steel!😳😎💯
But stupid of him not to escape when Gacy was in the bathroom a 2nd time and to just pull the cooler aside. Also, he should have told the desk clerk Ella what happened and Gacy would be caught then. Also, his Mom instead of smoking a cig should have called the police and Gacy would be caught then. Stupid people who caused many more to die by their inaction.
@@HowieHoward-ti3dx it's easy to call everyone stupid when looking through our own 2023 lens but you're forgetting he was only 14 years old at the time. A boy who just encountered a strange man in a sexual environment especially when it wasn't as "out there" as it is now probably wanted to get to a familiar face as quickly as possible, and probably would've felt weird about describing that situation to a stranger only minutes later. He was just thinking "Get my bike and get the hell out of here" to the place he saw as the safest: home. You're also forgetting this is not the "Modern woman" era. This is back when women often still deferred to their husbands for direction, decision, and action. So it's understandable she wanted to wait for her husband to come home and hear her son's story, especially considering he was pretty much unharmed just talking about a what he felt was just a "weird man."
@@Yoloslides I guess you're right, but his dad should have done something then.
@@HowieHoward-ti3dx first of all you never know how you will react in a dangerous situation. You can talk all day long about should’ve done this or that, but the truth is during that present moment of danger, you never know how you will respond to it (especially a teenager) and 9 times out of 10 you will Not do what you “should’ve” done. Second of all, back then people were more trusting of each other and weren’t so quick to believe stories about sick-minded murderers and rapists
Being a victims of crime advocate who has talked to hundreds of victims and their family members and read just as many police reports in my 25 years I have to totally agree with HowieHoward. I wonder how many victims who didn’t make it out alive had those same fear instinct feelings but either didn’t do anything or was too slow to act. HowieHoward was right that at the time of Tony’s encounter was a completely different era of what we know now of sexual predators and serial killers. Him and his mom couldn’t even imagine someone like Gacy and what he was capable of doing. Every action he and his mom took was believable. Knowing what we know now we can sit and watch this video and think to ourselves all the things he should of done but that’s just not realistic during that era, his experience and his age. He did the right thing and of course survived because of it. Thank god for victim success stories.
This man’s story was incredible. The best part for me is that I never felt he embellished any part, just simply told what happened. So glad you could add his life’s story to your library of stories. Enjoyed it very much.
Hell yeah, when you live an interesting life you don't have to make crap up
@@amosbackstrom5366 Truth ✊
You're right, Tony didn't embellish. And told the stories with interesting detail. Except the detail of what happened after he told his mother what happened in the hotel room with the creepy guy trying to hold him hostage and showing him boy porn magazines and handcuffs and chains. Mom says let's chill. We'll mention it to your dad when he gets home at midnight.
I was looking forward to this part of the story, weren't you? Man, I bet his dad was gonna be angry. I'm thinking dad's gonna throw mom and son in the car and drive to the police station right then and there. There's a child-predator on the loose. He's staying at the freaking resort! Man, that part of the story was gonna be good, right? Mom and dad to the rescue!
But all we get is. "We'll tell your father when he gets home. Fast forward three years."
Fast forward three years?
Let's fast forward 6 years. By that time Gacy went on to rape, torture, and murder 33 young men and boys.
11:00 to 12:05
Mom waits until 1978 to call the cops. After Gacy was finally caught by cops and all the bodies found under his house.
Tony says cop was rude to his mom on the phone. "Do you think someone calling us...some LADY calling us (nice touch Tony)...to report an incident after we found all the bodies is gonna do any good?"
Cop was probably saying to her, "Hold on a second. You waited 8 years to tell us about this creep holding your son hostage in a hotel room?"
@@Frip36 I wanted to know what his dad said when his mom told him about Gacy. That part was disappointing.
@@lisadawn3009
Wife: "How was your day sweetheart? I'll heat up the meatloaf for ya. You'll never guess who was on Dick Caveat tonight. Raquel Welch! By the way when you were at work some guy tried to rape and murder our son in a hotel room. I think they're re-running Caveat at 1. You want me to put it on?"
Dad: "Don't forget honey that you work at the resort the hotel is at. Let's not make any trouble about it. Bad for business."
Wife: "You really are a wise man. That's why I married you, heheheh."
Son: "It's ok dad. You know I live for the adrenaline rush. That guy in the hotel room pumped me so full of adrenaline I thought I might burst! I hope the kids he meets after me get the same thrill I did."
So happy he survived and lived to tell his stories. I loved when he said "Mark, I feel like I am doing all the talking" shows that he is such a gentleman. Such a wonderful story teller. Loved this.
I haven't had advice like this since my old man would sit me down while he'd do his ironing for the week. For hours he'd talk...and I'd listen. He'd tell story after story.. and I'd listen. Then, when I was old enough to start making my own stories...he'd tell me that he put everything he could into me...the good, bad and ugly...and it was my time to figure out the rest. Men, like in this video, aren't around like they once were...but, his advice at the end was priceless (now that I'm a father of young boys) and my father isn't around for those ironing sessions anymore...I haven't enjoyed hearing an elder talk truth like that in many years. I'm appreciative. Thank you.
He escaped one of the most evil men in history. Literally dodged a nuke
@@Foxtalon7773 I read what he did to all those boys. It boggles my mind. He didn't get the punishment he deserved
Yes, i thought so too 🙂❤️
My daddy is from Alabama and my mother is from Kentucky. He makes me feel like I'm listening to one of my uncles.😄
He did a super good job! There's nothin like a SMART southern man with an even better SOUL.💛
His parents did him a great service by raising him the way the did - with awareness and letting him develop his gut and intuition. When he said Gacy wasn't acting like how any of the men he knew acted it gave him a reference point that the situation wasn't right. Amazing interview.
They allowed him to drink bear….hang around his father gambling….to talk to strangers……..that’s not raised well at all.
Mate sounds like he barely had any situational awareness at all.
@@ghostman6074
I was raised around such things you mentioned. You learn things, good and bad.
It creates awareness to both sides. I wasn't raised by hovering parents, so I learned the hard way, and best lessons are learned that way. To me anyhow because I was once a stubborn little shit and that was the only way I suppose, lol😆
Do you here what you’re saying? Everything you just criticized this man for is exactly what you’re patting yourself on the back for! What a Karen!
@@gabagool_ovahere He talks about all the rough guys he was around as a kid and teenager. Gamblers and hard drinkers and fishing guides. Talks about how this made him ultra-aware or something, because he was a good listener.
So surely he would have heard some of these hard-living roughnecks saying "Careful who ya' trust. There's a lot of creeps out there." E.g. "Prolly not a good idea for boys to befriend strange guys in leisure suits hanging out by the hotel pool. Much less go into their motel rooms."
P.S. Funny. The two guys wanting to help him buy a truck were probably just regular guys wanting to help him buy a truck. Instead he jumps out their bathroom window. LOL
Tonys story is absolutely terrifying! Thank God he was able to escape but that must have been something that weighed on him for a long time. I wanted to share my story as well. I was a teenager and leaving my high school dance late at night. My mom was too busy on the phone to remember to get me and I couldn't get hold of her because we didn't have call waiting (this was in the 90s). Everyone left including teachers and students. I was alone and it was dark out. A man drove up in a car and asked if I was ok. I said yes and I was waiting for someone. He told me I could sit in his car while I waited. I declined. He said he was a teacher at the school so it was ok. This man was NOT a teacher. I knew all the teachers. He asked again and I said no and at that point he started to get out of his car and walk towards me. My heart was racing and I started backing away. I was terrified. At that point my mom pulled into the school parking lot and the man quickly got into his car and took off. That man was The Abbotsford Killer, Terry Driver. My story was verified many years later while working in federal corrections and I remember the chills I felt. I still do when I think about how different the outcome could have been.
Wow, that's terrifying! You got lucky, hope you thanked your mom !
Oh my goodness!!!!! God was looking after you that night.
I hope your mother gave the school and teachers hell for leaving any student by themselves.
Thanks for sharing your story!
Did your incident occur before or after the girls he attacked? I’m glad you were safe/
I'm so glad your mum pulled up just in time. I dread to think what have happened if she hadn't arrived at that moment.
Oh Lord😮how horrible 😵thank God you' re fine
The fact that the bath tub was filled with ice sent chills down my spine. That’s 100% where he was gonna put his body
And then he was going to throw him in the water like the others to make the same as if he drowned. What a monster.
Naw He
I felt that too... how terrible! I know that feeling he had too. Amazing story
The story just makes my skin crawl.
@@kandig.5515 is it jeffery d?
This man is a natural storyteller. It would have been interesting to see a picture of Tony at age 14 and John Wayne Gacy in 1970 (at the time of their encounter).
Tony is one of those men who has really lived quite a life and learned from it..... plus he came out kind and wise. Much respect!
Ask his wife and kids if he's kind & wise. They're the only ones who would know.
My husband was a victim of JWG. From his own experience, he can give you a lot more details about things that he saw and things that he knows. He is actually willing to talk to you.
Did get it in the butt?
Mark should also let your husband tell his story on this channel
@@ladysudaandthegoddessmorri3217 if he contacts me, I can put them in touch! He is certainly open to the idea. He has a lot of information about his own personal encounter and so much more information about the actual things that happened. After all, his father was a cop up there!
You should have him document it.. you could write a book.. we could learn from his experience.. give people some insight into how a predator works as well as a way to learn to get out and hopefully avoid situations and predators... If your husband is a survivor of one of the most prolific serial predator/killers. Every detail could be valuable.. it's only a suggestion. You could make yourself some retirement money???..
@@shawnacothran3075 my husband wants to put his story out there because of all the families that are still missing their children and their other family members. His hope is to help them get some information to give them closure or whatever he can give them about their missing children.
I love that he felt safe to tell his parents what happened in that room. So many people have a traumatizing experience and hide it because they feel ashamed. They blame themselves for getting into a situation where they're in danger, or where they are harmed. He was able to tell both his parents, which reflects well on them for that part of his upbringing. But you do have to wonder why they didn't call the police? Was it because they didn't want police poking around Dad's illegal enterprises? Probably. Or maybe they didn't want nosy neighbors hearing about how their undersge son agreed to have a beer with a full grown man. As for having complete freedom, I grew up that way too and am not so sure it was a good thing. I could have used more guidance. I did a lot of stupid, risky stuff. I wasn't always the best judge of other people. What I did learn, though, is to listen to my gut. If something feels weird, then get out. And I think that like Tony, I learned how to talk to unstable or even evil people in a way that would keep them calm until I could figure out how to get away. I have to say, I was shocked when he started talking about federal prison. That came out of left field. And running marijuana with his boat! You know, he and I are the same age and up until I had a massive heart attack followed by a quadruple bypass that unfortunately left me with nerve damage, I worked for an agency caring for elderly people. (Prior to that, I was a reporter for about 30 years), and I discovered that every one of these folks had a story or two to tell. Even the clients with dementia still could remember and talk about their wild and crazy days. Of course, as a reporter, I got good at drawing people out. But Tony shows us you really cannot tell a book by its cover. Which is why it's also foolish to judge people, even people you've known a long time, because there's always so much more to their story than you may know.
Me too! Many people go home and don’t tell anyone. I am an advocate for open communication between parent and child
So very well said! We (family of six kids) grew up with little to no supervision. One brother is a detective and another is a lifelong criminal. The one thing we all have in common is reading people. This man has lead an extremely scary and interesting life and I’m glad he’s still here to tell his stories.
He told his mother. He already knew that telling his father would result in nothing.
@@hopewalker8886 his dad was working
wise words, thank you for sharing
I was a SA survivor and never spoke up. Thankyou for having the courage to tell your story. I am so glad you didnt end up a victim!!! You are a wonderful human. More than what he did to you
Great interview! And he is right that overprotection, over controlling, and helicopter parenting is harmful to kids. It doesn’t allow them to grow up. It makes them too compliant and over obedience can get a child into a lot of trouble. Being able to question adults and say no while also learning the balance of respect and responsible behavior is important.
Way before I had my son I was watching Oprah & she had Gavin DeBecker on. His book the Gift of Fear was just out. His gist as a security specialist was we were breeding the intuition sense out of our kids. You should fave natural fear in some situations. Be aware. Always stayed with me. As kids in the 70’s we were given a tremendous amount of freedom. Both my parents were from NYC & grew up in apts. Our house was a big house in NJ suburbs/farm town. They thought we couldn’t be safer.
@@samanthab1923 “ breeding intuition out of kids “ is an interesting way to put it. There is truth in that.
I grew up in this guy's situation.. But worse . Helicopter parenting for the most part I am ... So, in that sense, I teach them what could happen in every circumstance. Tell them how to read people. Be aware of the situation or surroundings... No, never delt drugs or went to prison .I Knew what kind of people were in that business. Evidently, he did not use his southern skill to walk away. Already heard a guy get killed at a young age .. So yes, that's a good idea smuggling in weed ?? Good stories, though.
@@stst77 Sad but true.
well said
It unsettles me that Gacy was at Kenlake and stalking boys in my home state during the early 70’s. I worked for the KY state park system and frequented LBL as a student of parks and recreation at WKU and also a camp counselor. Thank God Tony had the insight to get away from that monster! Appreciate Tony’s gift of storytelling!
Why didn't you consider that this story is total BS? There is ZERO evidence that Gacy was hanging out on the Kentucky-Tennessee border.
Wow. What a story. This is stuff you’d never expect from such an unassuming guy. He seems like a really nice guy who has been put in some really bad situations.
It’s a good reminder that everyone we see has a story. There’s that show “I survived” that REALLY drives that point home for me
@@tifKh I Survived is hands down one of my favorite shows ever!
Or a good liar
@@jothegreek * liar
@@aloysiusdevanderabercrombi470 Perhaps jothegreek means Tony rests well in a horizontal position. 😃
What a lovely Man... I could listen to him talk all day... You can tell they are all memories; & what a journey he's had.. So far..
Thanks Tony... & Mark.❤❤❤
PLEASE do another interview with this man. He has a LOT more stories to tell that people can learn from, as well as be entertained.
Do you see how that is a bit demented? This is this man’s trauma. He is talking about how he was sexually assaulted. He w Asa as close to being raped and killed. Do you think this is fun for him to recall? No. It's exhausting. Respect this story and respect that he shouldn't have his trauma made into entertainment for you.
@@ringo5899i don’t think they were asking just for entertainment purposes. Read their comment again
Yup
Perchè è un serial k famoso e alla gente piace il sangue,per questo ha 1 M di visualizzazioni,dei poveracci non importa a nessuno.
@@ringo5899 These stories are unbelievably valuable for information to help individuals protect themselves. Look up I Survived on A&E or deep survival before you start virtue signaling
Very well done, Mark....I loved how you gave him the floor, and didn't interrupt him, but just let him tell his story on his own time. This is one of my favorite videos that you've done. I wish this man the absolute best, and appreciate him taking the time to share part of his life story.
Same here, going to re-watch 🙂
This guy is very interesting, can see potential for many more interviews, marks probably already recorded them
Agreed, one of my favs as well.
Yea mark is definitely good at knowing when someone can tell their own story effectively, and he just sits back. Some interviewers suck at that part, haha. They can still have good interviews, when their skill set of being involved and guiding it is useful, but they can’t ever do stuff like this as they’re getting in the middle of it constantly
Yes both did a good job
This sends shivers up my spine. I had a man try to entice me the same way with beer. I got the hell out of there. Probably saved my life.
Eewww ... I'm sorry you had that experience.
I was in the city the other day and was at a CVS and there were two kids in there and an older man offering to buy them stuff and I went and told the employees and he seen me and left. Afterwards the lady workers watched the two kids leave to make sure the guy didn't come back and they told me he's some creepy homeless guy probably on drugs and has no money and just loiters. I still felt the police should have been called, it didn't sit right with me
@@Willowtree82 In this country the police don't TOUCH the homeless, under Biden. They're actually gonna be favored more than you (Or that man).
I was almost raped, but I yelled out to Jesus. The rapist let go of my wrists. He was pulling me on my knees by my wrists. Jesus helped me to my feet, and I ran.
I'm sure it did!!
Tony is a very interesting man. I could listen to his stories for hours. He has had angels hovering him.
I could listen to this guy all day. What a storyteller. What a life.
I think also if a kid is well loved and listened to, they learn to respect and listen to their own instincts. And this seemed to be key to this guy surviving two horrific situations.
Also the fact that he had been given responsibility, had been working and allowed a fair bit of independence, makes a big difference. As a farm kid I always had chores, responsibility for younger siblings and had a part time job at 11 years old. I was allowed to drive tractors at ten years old to go from one farm to the other to bring feed home, clip pastures, rake hay or pick stones etc. You learn a lot because you have to rely on yourself. You learn to think in times of crisis, and not panic. It builds resilience. Lots of times, it’s just pure luck that you survive though! Lol. If I had to count the times a cow or a horse kick almost took my head off, it wouldn’t be a small number!
Indeed👍
Absolutely. As another commenter said. Situational awareness is one of the most important attributes a human can posess.
I would have listened to Tony for several more hours and we know he has many more details and stories. Easy on the eyes, a voice for radio, acute situational and human awareness, sensational life experiences and an exceptional storyteller. I'd buy insurance from Tony any day. I'd buy an air conditioner for my home in Antarctica and anything else he's selling - which hopefully includes a book someday.
I just want to listen to all his stories
I agree! He’s a great storyteller
I was going to say the same thing, this guy is so interesting and an amazing story teller
I agree
Well said. Well put!
Such a great thing to be able to just sit and listen to him speak about events that happened to him.
Every single one of Gacy's victims who didn't make it out alive had stories to tell just like Tony. They all had lives to live and it was all stolen from them. Very scary to think how many more victims there are that haven't been linked to Gacy.
Contrary to the prevalent opinion, I do believe Gacy killed just the 33 young men he admitted to killing. His last words, "kiss my ass, you'll never find out where the others are," sounds like a bluff of a narcissistic man wanting to leave a last lingering impression. And I am not saying si because I like to differ: Dean Corll, John Wayne Gacy's unintentional mentor, has 28 murdered boys on his account, but I am positively sure he was killing boys before 1970, and their real number is probably up to 60.
I hope you don't think this dude was telling the truth.
based on his affiliations he was both a killer and provider of young boys to be abused and murdered then disposed of
@@anatta467 who are you talking about?
@ Gacy
Fascinating. He trusted his gut & it saved his life. Masterful storyteller.
I feel stressed out just listening to his story. The horror he must have felt
It's kind of obvious not to go into a stranger's apartment in that situation, don't give him too much credit
@zree758 Times were different
@@zree758Right? He mentions his intuition several times, but my intuition wouldn’t have allowed me in the room with John, or in the truck with those two men
@@PhoenyxxFauxthink about pop culture back in 40s, 50s, 60s. Bad things happened, but I think there was more presumption of honor until proven otherwise? Plus, he might have been a bored kid looking for trouble, like swimming across a mile wide lake.
The details of his story are captivating! He remembers every detail and is able to convey it in a way that keeps you interested. Truly remarkable. What a story!
How do you know the details are true?
@@cherylbrantley4736 She doesn't, Cheryl. Noice critical thinking skills.
@@the_gilded_age_phoenix8717 LOL
He leaves out so many details.
@@jms980what details did he leave out? Do you know something he forgot?
What a guy - calm and comforting yet his stories are intriguing and dangerous. This was by far my favorite interview you have done.
I never get scared hearing stories like these but when he detailed unlocking the door my heart was racing.
To think he could've been done in right under the noses of all the people at his mums workplace 😨🫣
I could have listened to him for hours. "Students of human behavior," such a great quote. Tony, thanks for sharing.
You're pretty HOT.
Mark you are by far one of the best docu style interviewers on the planet. There was no way to predict where this man's story was going to go and yet because you allow people the space to relax and start to open up, you get some of the most interesting interviews I've ever seen. Your work is excellent!
Yes he allows his guest to talk. Unlike so many others that talk more than their guest.
Agreed. Mark hit the nail on the head (again) with this interview. This guy (Tony) is a great storyteller, smart guy. Not many people can tell a story like this.
i wouldnt say all that, but it was a job well done.
Living a full life, for sure!
I love listening to you
I was friends with Gacy's neighbor back in the 80's. Her father worked second shift and would see Gacy working in the yard in the middle of the night. They were friendly with Gacy and his wife and had no idea the horrors that were happening next door or what he might have accidently walked up on those nights he saw him "gardening" in the middle of the night.
Handing out venison Jerky at bar or Halloween instead of candy...don't eat the jerky
I don't think he buried any bodies outside. They were in his crawlspace.
@lovemyscotsman He buried some bodies on his property but most were in his crawl space and others were in the Des Plaines River.
One of my favorite interviews on this channel. Tony looks like an unassuming suburban dad but weaves a tumultuous tale that certainly lets his audience know that this is not the case.
He seems like a such goodhearted, even-keeled man with much wisdom to share. This one kept me on the edge of my seat. I wish all the very best for Tony and his family.
I agree, thanks for sharing your story Tony ❤
I agree!! Looking at him you would have never know what an interesting man he is! I guess that goes back to don't judge a book by its cover!
Amazingly, the Gacy encounters are the _least_ exciting thing he talks about.
Yes, great comment. Side note, you might be surprised how many unassuming appearing suburban dads turn out to have good hearts and wisdom to share.😏
This was literally the quickest 40 minute interview ive ever heard. I could literally imagine everything he's saying while he's telling his story
You can tell how deeply this experience stuck with him when he recalls details like dew on the grass spitting up water at him as he’s biking 10:46
I was riveted by his stories.
I agree! He’s so interesting
He is an AMAZING story teller! A very rare talent! I also enjoyed a lot listening to his memories!
Me as well! It was making me nervous the whole time! He could have been murdered about 3 times.
He needs a one man show telling all the stories of his life. He’s amazing to listen to, pulls you right in!
Some people’s lives really would be a fascinating read. He should write a book.
Something like the pied piper - purely mesmerizing
He's telling a tall tale. There is ZERO evidence that Gacy was hanging out on the Kentucky-Tennessee border or that he sought any victims outside of Chicago.
He needs his own podcast.... his voice is smoothe like velvet.
Being a good interviewer -- means being able to listen, first and foremost. Wonderful work with this one.
I am astounded that Tony felt comfortable telling his parents about that encounter. What a fantastic escape he made. Amazing all that he observed, and how successfully he survived. Thank you for telling us this story.
He probably had a good relationship with them where he could tell them anything.
If he has more stories you should have him back on.. he has a calming speaking voice and a great memory
I completely agree!
Yes
Can you please give him a part 2. I couldn't stop listening to his story. He really should write a book of his life. I'd buy it in a heart beat. Thank you
Definitely would welcome hearing more of his life stories and wisdom!
Agree, wonderful story telling skills
Yessssssss
Sammmmmeeee
you are so kind. i love it.
Omg as he is telling the story when Gacy went to the restroom and he was thinking of what to do, my heart is literally POUNDING. I can imagine myself in his shoes. He really is a great story teller.
As someone who was shocked and astounded by the Gacy case, in addition to reading several books about him, this is absolutely fascinating to me. Thank you to Mark and this interviewed man. Outstanding.
As a fellow child abduction survivor, I totally relate to his story about time standing still and the exact moment when you realize you're in grave danger. Funnily enough my childhood was similar to his in other ways as well. What an amazing storyteller
What if. He is lying
I can pretty much tell he’s not lying but he wouldn’t ever comment on RUclips videos so this comment is likely BS
This guy was also “coerced” into group sex with Ron Jeremy lmao. Make of that info what you will
@Pierre A who is ron...lol..no but seriously he is lying...tho
@@godislord3377 he tells this story genuinely and in very exact detail and doesn’t look like a person looking for clout
@@godislord3377 You're nuts!
Every once in awhile Mark comes across a gem of a story teller. This is one of those times. I've always told my kids listen to your gut if the situation don't feel right get out of there.
23:33 " he was a painter but really he was a drinker " sorry man I'm not trying to be rude but that is too funny , work hard , play hard . Its important to avoid alcohol at work , you'll waste time on the job site
I was basically going to comment the same thing. This was a quality bedtime story. Glad he survived to tell it.
He’s as good a salesmen as his father, not sure if I believe his story tho
@@zackriederer4243 That would be wild to go into this much detail for no reason. He gained nothing by doing this. A few bucks from the channel owner, but thats it. Like why would anybody do this just to make shit up?
@@zackriederer4243 the only part of his story that didn't make sense was how he said he ran away from the hotel room and told his parents about the encounter with the stranger but the parents didn't do anything?? He didn't mention if he had siblings either , if he had told his siblings , the siblings would probably show up with baseball bats at the guys room , ya I don't think this guy acted alone , I think he probably had some sort of help , he was just the fall guy
This guy is extremely lucky. He’s a great story teller and his ability to remember specific details is beyond amazing.
Listening to Tony just solidified my belief in always listening to your gut. Especially women, we are so trained and socialized to be polite, follow social norms, don't be disruptive etc that we often ignore our initial gut feelings.
That instinct has literally saved my life on so many occasions. Pay attention to your inner voice and follow it. I would rather be embarrassed or have people think I'm weird then find myself in a situation I can't get out of.
Thanks for your stories and insight Tony.
" Especially women, we are so trained and socialized to be polite, follow social norms, don't be disruptive etc..." I have to respectfully disagree. In the last 50 years, it seems to me, that society has been urging women to be the opposite of the traits that you listed. Young girls are taught to be rebels and independent. Taught to cast off old patriarchal traditions of oppression.
@@Frip36 don't be rude
This is so so true, it can be so difficult to turn that conditioning off, too!
@@Frip36 actually, no.
@@Frip36 fifty years is still a very short time when one is talking about changing behaviour as a society. There thousands of years of conditioning to undo first.
How Mark continues to procure these people from high profile cases is beyond comprehension. What an absolutely terrifying scenario. Reminds me of the court testimony of that Dahmer survivor.
Amidst all the garbage popping up daily by self-proclaimed 'content creators,' every once in awhile you'll discover a hidden gem. Absolutely one of the best channels on RUclips.
Not that hard to source people.
Certainly not "beyond comprehension".
😂
@@dangerous8333
I bet you can't do it
@Wesley alan why would he want to? He doesn't have an audience of almost 5 million. The bigger the channel gets the more money you make hence the bigger an better the guest get. It's not rocket science.
@@rjskum688
You skimmed right over the point i was making, and you brought up other points.
I for one, understand your points thourghly...I figured someone would say what you said.
People like RJ are the reason that most of the internet sucks azz.
This guy is a masterpiece. He’s a great storyteller with amazing stories. He needs another round!!!!!
Yes!! Awesome storyteller!!
Completely agree!
Please!
Well his only story of importance is JWG
@@jordanharris8880 that is a porcine remark.
What a great story teller, I could listen to Tony sharing his life experiences for hours.
This guy is one hell of a storyteller. Could listen to him spin stories forever
Lol subtle
What makes you think it's fake?
@@peachylady I mean, running into him twice, being in fed prison with one of the worst people ever, etc...... I believe him but I can see people that call baloney
Yeah, I have believed all of Mark's interviewees until this guy. I WANT to believe him, but anyone who watches psychoanalysis of cop interrogations will tell you liars throw in superfluous irrelevant details to sound more believable.
@@shannonthecannon1I believe him.
This guy needs to write a book, sorry he went through his encounter with that sadistic being, but glad to see he was able to turn things around and have such a natural talent for sharing his stories.
BUT WRITE A BOOK ABOUT A 30 MINUTE ENCOUNTER?!
@@shanoemichael4439 if you watched the entire video it seems he’s lived a pretty eventful life after the encounter.
@Ping Nguyen I did but its not enough for a good book! Shit everyone has a story!
What? You just heard everything! Wtf.
@@Buce-ku9vx yes
Hope Mark invites this guy back for a part 2 interview. His story telling, for me, was engaging and best part, believable.
This monologue is excellent. I could have listened to these recollections all night. Thank you for sharing.
I also narrowly escaped from a psycho when I was 15 and hitch hiking. Also, I lived in the Chicago suburbs and remember the Gacy killings very well. A friend of mine was 16 and working with his dad doing industrial floor cleaning at a new drugstore. Gacy was also doing some contracting there and asked my friend to come to his house for a barbecue. Luckily, his dad got the willies from Gacy and wouldn't let him go. Im so glad Tony got away, he seems like a really cool guy.
Jeffrey Dahmer?
I remember the Dahmer case as well. He lived in Milwaukee which isn't terribly far from Chicago but it was close enough for a ton of news coverage. Allegedly he did come into Chicago to cruise the gay bars looking for victims but I never met anyone that had any kind of encounter with him.
i also narrowly survived in chicago. i’m glad you are okay and still here.😘
@@2hot2bstr8official I'm glad you are too.
Its amazing what we know at five or six years old..i knew way too much
I’m late to this, but, my mom grew up in Washington state. When she was 13 or 14 a man in his early 20’s approached her at a park holding a dog leash. He told her his puppy got lost and asked if she could help him find the lost puppy. She agreed and he started leading her to a more secluded area of the park where he said he lost the puppy. She said he was intensely staring at her the whole time, and when she asked what the puppy’s name was he got all flustered. She got a super bad feeling, and just turned and ran back to where people were at the park. Years later she saw the same man’s mugshot on TV for heinous crimes. It was Ted Bundy
Omg 😢
Close one. Glad she heeded her gut feeling and got away.
🥶
Lord, have mercy. So glad she got away.
Holly sh…… 😮
This is like 3 amazing stories in one. And his ability to switch from one to another effortlessly is amazing.
I could listen to this guys stories for hours on end. I don’t know the last time I’ve watched a video that completely enthralled me. Easily one of my favorite videos on this channel.
Watching this, all of a sudden my life made sense from my childhood upbringing and experiences. Twice I was able to get out of predicaments that I feel sure my life would have been taken. I remember distinctly getting that warning vibe prior. This story was awesome and brings gratitude for my childhood experiences.
Same here TWICE....in 78 and 81 as a young teenager, i was taught situational awareness much younger. My smart father saved my life twice by simply taking the time to talk to me about the dangers of some humans, that i'd instantly recognize danger and he was right. Glad you made it out as well !! Best wishes and hope you have a great, safe upcoming summer ma'am.
@@shanghunter7697 ❤️… thanks for sharing and connecting!
I've never been a target of human predators but I have come close to losing my life because of my dumb actions when I was younger. Funnily at the moment I never realized how lucky I had gotten but usually years later it suddenly hit me how close to death I had been.
Me too.
Tony’s story is fascinating. He listened to his gut instincts and that saved him from being a Gacy victim. His instincts also kept him alive when he encountered dangerous situations
Hi Heather! I just posted a comment relaying same sentiments. He paid attention to his gut instincts and acted on it. It saved his life. 😌🐦
In my day it was called street smarts! ALWAYS listen to your gut! I'm 70
@@LindaSolinski hi Linda! listening to my gut and intuition has helped And saved me many many times. I'm 70 too. 😌🐦🇨🇦
@@debszakormos7919what’s with the 🇨🇦 flag?
why would u go into a random persons room anway?
As a parent of 2 Boys, I appreciated hearing your stories. It’s a fine balance between protecting your children and preparing them in regards to human behavior.
TRUE
☝🏽😁
@@the2ndcoming135 thank you very much and the same to you a blessing to you and your house
This wasn’t about u girls sush
@@johnanthonyalberola6252 no problem man. Be safe out here. You already know the psychos are on the loose.
What an amazing story Tony.
Im sorry it happened to you, but I'm happy you are here to tell it..