38 Facts About Michael Malloy

The Life of Michael Malloy

Michael Malloy, also known as "Mike the Durable" or "Iron Mike," was an Irishman who lived in New York City during the early 20th century. His life became legendary due to his incredible resilience and the bizarre circumstances surrounding his death.

1. Michael Malloy was born in County Donegal, Ireland, in 1873.
2. He immigrated to the United States in the early 1900s, seeking a better life.
3. Malloy worked various jobs, including firefighter and laborer.
4. He eventually fell on hard times, becoming homeless and an alcoholic.
5. Despite his struggles, Malloy was known for his cheerful demeanor and friendliness.

The Murder Plot

A group of men, later known as the "Murder Trust," concocted a plan to kill Malloy for insurance money. Their scheme would become one of the most infamous murder plots in history.

6. The Murder Trust consisted of Tony Marino, Joseph Murphy, Francis Pasqua, Daniel Kriesberg, and Hershey Green.
7. They took out multiple life insurance policies on Malloy, totaling $3,500 (equivalent to about $70,000 today).
8. The group initially tried to get Malloy to drink himself to death by offering him unlimited credit at Marino's speakeasy.
9. Malloy consumed large quantities of alcohol daily but showed no signs of succumbing.
10. The group then tried to poison Malloy with antifreeze, turpentine, horse liniment, and rat poison mixed into his drinks.

Malloy's Incredible Resilience

Despite the Murder Trust's numerous attempts, Malloy's resilience seemed almost supernatural. Each new method they tried only highlighted his incredible durability.

11. Malloy drank the poisoned concoctions without any apparent ill effects.
12. The group then fed him raw oysters soaked in wood alcohol, hoping the combination would be lethal.
13. Malloy ate the oysters with gusto and continued to survive.
14. They served him a sandwich filled with spoiled sardines, carpet tacks, and metal shavings.
15. Malloy ate the sandwich and asked for another, much to the group's frustration.

The Final Attempts

Desperate to collect the insurance money, the Murder Trust escalated their efforts to kill Malloy. Their increasingly extreme methods only added to the legend of "Mike the Durable."

16. They left Malloy outside in the freezing cold, drenched in water, hoping he would succumb to hypothermia.
17. Malloy was found the next day, alive and asking for a drink.
18. The group then ran him over with a taxi, driven by Harry Green, at 45 miles per hour.
19. Malloy was hospitalized for three weeks but recovered and returned to the speakeasy.
20. Finally, they forced a gas hose down his throat while he was unconscious, ultimately causing his death.

The Aftermath

The bizarre circumstances of Malloy's death and the subsequent investigation brought the Murder Trust to justice. The case remains a fascinating example of human resilience and criminal folly.

21. Malloy died on February 22, 1933, after surviving numerous murder attempts.
22. The police initially ruled his death as pneumonia, but suspicions arose due to the multiple insurance policies.
23. An anonymous tip led to the exhumation of Malloy's body and a thorough investigation.
24. The autopsy revealed carbon monoxide poisoning as the cause of death.
25. The Murder Trust members were arrested and charged with first-degree murder.

The Trial and Convictions

The trial of the Murder Trust captivated the public, with many fascinated by the details of the case. Justice was eventually served, but the story of Michael Malloy lived on.

26. The trial began in October 1933, drawing significant media attention.
27. All members of the Murder Trust were found guilty of first-degree murder.
28. Tony Marino, Joseph Murphy, Francis Pasqua, and Daniel Kriesberg were sentenced to death.
29. Harry Green, the taxi driver, received a lesser sentence for his cooperation with authorities.
30. The four main conspirators were executed in the electric chair at Sing Sing Prison in 1934.

Legacy of Michael Malloy

Michael Malloy's story has become a symbol of human endurance and the bizarre lengths people will go for money. His legacy continues to intrigue and inspire.

31. Malloy's tale has been featured in numerous books, articles, and documentaries.
32. His story inspired the 1947 film "The Man Who Wouldn't Die."
33. The case is often cited in discussions about life insurance fraud and criminal psychology.
34. Malloy's resilience earned him the nickname "Mike the Durable."
35. His story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of human life and death.

Cultural Impact

The legend of Michael Malloy has permeated popular culture, influencing various forms of media and continuing to captivate audiences.

36. Malloy's story has been referenced in television shows, including "Drunk History."
37. His life and death have inspired songs, such as "The Ballad of Michael Malloy."
38. The tale of "Iron Mike" remains a popular topic in true crime circles and historical discussions.

The Legacy of Michael Malloy

Michael Malloy's story is a wild ride through history. His resilience and sheer luck turned him into a legend. Despite numerous attempts on his life, Malloy survived against all odds, earning the nickname "Iron Mike." His tale isn't just about survival; it's a testament to human endurance and the bizarre lengths people will go for money.

Malloy's life and death highlight the darker side of human nature, but also the incredible strength some possess. His story continues to fascinate, reminding us that truth can be stranger than fiction. Whether viewed as a tragic figure or a symbol of toughness, Malloy's legacy endures.

Next time you hear an unbelievable story, think of Michael Malloy. His life proves that sometimes, the most incredible tales are the ones that actually happened.