Cindy and Shirley's Unexpected Turn

Cindy Collier and Shirley Wolf

Date: June 14, 1983

Age: 14 and 15 years old

City: Auburn, California

Status: Released from prison August 1992 and June 1995

Title: A Fateful Night: Cindy and Shirley's Unexpected Turn

Introduction:

In a small town not too far away, the lives of two young girls, Cindy Collier and Shirley Wolf, took a shocking and unexpected turn one fateful night. A decision to steal a car and hit the town led to a series of events that would change their lives forever.

The Plan:

At just 14 and 15 years old, Cindy and Shirley hatched a plan to add some excitement to their mundane lives. Their youthful curiosity and desire for adventure led them to the idea of stealing a car and hitting the town. Little did they know that this impulsive decision would have dire consequences.

The Knock on the Door:

The duo decided to start their night of mischief by walking to a nearby condo building. With hearts pounding and adrenaline rushing, they began knocking on doors, hoping for an opportunity to carry out their plan. Their innocent appearance, however, masked the darkness that lurked within.

The Tragic Encounter:

When an elderly woman kindly answered the door and invited the two inside, the situation took a sinister turn. Instead of seizing the chance to carry out their initial plan, Cindy and Shirley inexplicably attacked the unsuspecting woman. The senseless act of violence escalated quickly, resulting in the tragic stabbing of the elderly lady, who ultimately lost her life.

The Diary Entry:

That night, in the aftermath of their inexplicable actions, Shirley took to her diary to document the shocking events. In chilling and unsettling words, she wrote, "Cindy and I ran away and killed an old lady. It was fun." The juxtaposition of their young ages and the gravity of their actions left a community in shock.

Juvenile Detention:

Due to their tender ages at the time, Cindy and Shirley faced legal consequences that placed them in juvenile detention. The justice system, acknowledging their youth, sought to rehabilitate rather than punish. The case shed light on the complexities of addressing crimes committed by minors and the need for a balanced approach to justice.

Conclusion:

The story of Cindy and Shirley serves as a cautionary tale, a reminder that youthful curiosity can sometimes take a dark turn. The tragic events of that night not only claimed the life of an innocent woman but also left two young girls on a path of rehabilitation. It prompts reflection on the importance of guidance, understanding, and intervention for troubled youth, ensuring that they have the opportunity to grow into responsible and empathetic individuals.

Fun: 1995 Film

In 1995, a gripping Canadian independent film titled "Fun" hit the screens, leaving audiences both captivated and disturbed. The movie, based on a play, unfolds a fictionalized version of the 1983 Auburn, California murder. Its title, "Fun," draws inspiration from a chilling diary entry made by one of the real-life perpetrators.

Real-Life Inspiration:

The movie's roots lie in the actual events of 1983, when Cindy and Shirley committed a heinous crime in Auburn, California. The film, while fictionalized, draws on the emotions, consequences, and the dark allure of youth gone astray. The narrative provides a glimpse into the complexities of the human psyche and the consequences of impulsive actions.

Cinematic Acclaim:

"Fun" received critical acclaim for its raw portrayal of the characters and the unsettling nature of the story it told. The film's ability to navigate the delicate balance between fiction and reality contributed to its success. Viewers were left both disturbed and contemplative, grappling with the harsh realities explored within the confines of the screen.