She Counted to 100… | Mr. Cruel (1987) #mr.cruel #truecrimestories #truecrimeshorts

Crime Junkie

  • Mar 12, 2026
  • 1:20
  • Short

In 1987, a masked man broke into a suburban home in Melbourne, Australia.

Inside, a 12-year-old girl — whose identity has never been released — hid in a closet and counted to 100 after her attacker told her to wait.

She survived.

The press would later give him a name that haunted Australia for decades: Mr. Cruel.

Between 1987 and 1991, he terrorized families across Victoria — breaking into homes at night, restraining parents, abducting young girls, and disappearing without a trace.

And more than 30 years later, no one has been charged.

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About Ashley Flowers Ashley Flowers is the top female podcaster in the U.S. and the host of Crime Junkie, the #1 podcast among women and the #1 true crime podcast globally. As the Founder of audiochuck, she has built a top-tier podcast production company that has garnered over 2.6 billion downloads, captivating audiences with its gripping storytelling through 10+ chart topping podcasts. Ashley and her team are dedicated to creating responsible true crime content that respects victims and their families.

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Brief Summary

Eliza's 1987 abduction by Mr. Cruel in Melbourne highlights ongoing fears and unresolved crimes against children.

Key points

  • The Story of Eliza. In 1987, a masked man broke into a home, leaving a young girl to count in fear.

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