Hauntings in Alcatraz

Since its opening in 1934 Alcatraz prison has held some of Americas most notorious prisoners. Al Capone was kept in Alcatraz until his failing heath prompted an early release. Machine gun Kelly was imprisoned in Alcatraz, and Henry Young was also kept there.

During its use, Alcatraz prison has seen few escape attempts, most of which ended in failure. Only one possibly successful escape attempt, which was unverified in 1962. The prisoners, or their bodies were never found.

Alcatraz has many tales of death, hauntings, and supernatural activity. Some of the stories range from hearing voices in the prison hospital, to others that are more tangible manifestations. It has been noted by more than one person that noises were heard in the cafeteria, the prison exercise yard, and cell block D.

Although most supernatural reports involve sounds, without visions, there are places in Alcatraz that have higher than normal reports of sightings. A hotspot for sightings of supernatural activity is solitary confinement which people reported seeing glowing eyes in the dark. Solitary held the most violent prisoners, and they were put into stressful circumstances such as remaining in the dark for days at a time. There were also sightings of prisoners that were involved in an escape attempt 1946, all of whom were killed in their attempt.

While Alcatraz has reported sightings from many sources, there is no hard evidence that any supernatural activity is present. In the end, its up to the interpretation of the listener.