Jack — Janet Smurl [work]

But with fame came the inevitable backlash.

| Year | Reported Activity | Description | |------|-------------------|-------------| | | Auditory disturbances | Persistent knocking, thumping, and a low, guttural “growl” heard throughout the house, especially at night. | | 1978–1981 | Physical manifestations | Objects moved or thrown across rooms; a heavy, dark figure—“the Devil”—appeared in the hallway; the couple reported feeling “a presence” that “pressed” against their bodies. | | 1982–1985 | Intensified aggression | Doors slammed shut, windows shattered spontaneously, and the family’s pets died under mysterious circumstances. Janet claimed she was slapped and pinched by an invisible force. | | 1986–1990 | Confrontation | The Smurls claimed they could see a shadowy figure standing in the master bedroom; they also reported the smell of sulfur, foul odors, and an overall “oppressive” atmosphere. In 1990, they said the spirit threatened to kill them if they did not leave the house. | jack janet smurl