In the annals of crime history, certain cases stand out for their sheer audacity and the resilience of the victims involved. One such case is the harrowing ordeal of Barbara Mackle, whose kidnapping in 1968 captured the attention of the entire nation. The story of the "Barbara Mackle Coffin" is not just a tale of crime but a testament to human endurance and ingenuity. This article delves into the details of this chilling episode, exploring the events that unfolded and the remarkable survival of Barbara Mackle.

The kidnapping of Barbara Mackle was a meticulously planned crime that pushed the boundaries of human cruelty and resourcefulness. On a cold December morning, the world was introduced to a nightmare scenario straight out of a suspense thriller. The story of Barbara Mackle's entrapment in a coffin-like box, buried underground, is one that continues to intrigue and horrify. This article will uncover the layers of this complex case, shedding light on the individuals involved and the extraordinary rescue operation that followed.

As we unravel the story of the "Barbara Mackle Coffin," we will explore not only the crime itself but also the broader implications it had on law enforcement and society at large. This was a case that tested the limits of investigative techniques and human resolve, leaving an indelible mark on the history of crime in America. Join us as we navigate through the details of this incredible story, piecing together the events that led to one of the most dramatic rescues in history.

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Biography and Background
The Kidnapping Incident
The Coffin Confinement
The Ransom Demand
The Investigation and Search
The Rescue Operation
The Perpetrators' Apprehension
The Aftermath and Trial
Impact on Law Enforcement
Barbara Mackle's Life After the Ordeal
Media Coverage and Public Reaction
Psychological Impact and Recovery
Lessons Learned from the Case
Cultural and Historical Significance
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion

Biography and Background

Barbara Jane Mackle was born on September 13, 1947, in Coral Gables, Florida. She was the daughter of Robert Mackle, a wealthy real estate developer, and Jane Mackle. Barbara grew up in a privileged environment, attending the finest schools and enjoying the comforts of a well-to-do family. Her life, however, took a drastic turn during her junior year at Emory University in Atlanta.

Full Name	Barbara Jane Mackle
Date of Birth	September 13, 1947
Place of Birth	Coral Gables, Florida
Parents	Robert Mackle, Jane Mackle
Education	Emory University

Barbara was a bright and dedicated student, known for her academic prowess and sociable nature. Her world was turned upside down on December 17, 1968, when she became the victim of a calculated and ruthless kidnapping plot. This section will provide an overview of her formative years, setting the stage for the events that would change her life forever.

The Kidnapping Incident

The kidnapping of Barbara Mackle is a story that could easily be the plot of a Hollywood thriller. On the morning of December 17, 1968, Barbara, then a 20-year-old student, was staying at the Rodeway Inn in Decatur, Georgia, with her mother, who was visiting her while she was recovering from the Hong Kong flu.

In the early hours, there was a knock on the door, and Barbara's mother, Jane Mackle, answered it, only to be confronted by a man claiming to be a police officer. He stated that there had been an accident involving Barbara's boyfriend, Stewart Woodward, and that he needed to speak with Barbara. With little suspicion, Jane and Barbara allowed the man inside.

What followed was a terrifying ordeal. The man, later identified as Gary Steven Krist, was not alone. His accomplice, Ruth Eisemann-Schier, was waiting outside. They overpowered Jane, binding and gagging her, and abducted Barbara at gunpoint. The kidnappers drove Barbara to a remote area in Gwinnett County, Georgia, where they buried her alive in a specially constructed box, equipped with air pumps, a light, food, and water.

Barbara was trapped in this box, wh