Alleged monster terrorized Raleigh County community during the 1930s

FIRECO, WV (LOOTPRESS) – In the 1930s, residents of Fireco in Raleigh County were gripped with fear and curiosity as an unknown creature terrorized the town.

Locals reported a series of gruesome incidents involving decapitated dogs and brain-eaten hogs, which forced everyone to stay indoors after dark.

This mysterious creature, dubbed the Fireco Monster or Fireco Varmint, became the stuff of legend since it first emerged in the spring of 1934.

Eyewitnesses initially described it as about two feet tall, covered in yellowish-gray hair, and incredibly fast.

In later sightings, it was said to have grown to four feet in height and six feet in length, with tracks as large as a man’s hand. Its appetite also evolved from hog brains to beef.

Despite numerous reports, the creature’s existence remained unconfirmed.

Legend has it that bullets and shots were said to slide off its body without causing harm, adding to the monster’s mystique.

While some remained skeptical, the Fireco Monster captured the imagination of many, providing ample fodder for newspaper stories and even influencing local behavior.

Parents reported that the tale helped keep children well-behaved out of fear of encountering the beast.