Ted Bundy and Jay, Florida

Is there a connection between Ted Bundy and the small town of Jay, Florida?

There is one possible connection—and one that is certain.

First, the possible connection: Over the years, several people have told me they saw Bundy in or around Jay shortly before his capture in Pensacola. Those sightings have never been verified, so they cannot be presented as fact. Still, the timeline leaves room for the possibility.

After murdering 12-year-old Kimberley Leach in Lake City on February 9, 1978, Bundy returned to Tallahassee. On February 12, he stole an orange Volkswagen Beetle and headed west. Pensacola Police Officer David Lee stopped him during the early morning hours of February 15.

The drive from Tallahassee to Pensacola takes only about three hours—but Bundy had the stolen Volkswagen for nearly three days. There is evidence that he spent some of that time in the Eglin Reservation area. Where else did he go? What roads did he travel? Could his wandering have taken him through northern Santa Rosa County and the town of Jay?

It is possible—but, for now, it remains only a possibility.

The second connection is certain.

After Bundy was taken to the Pensacola Police Department, Detective Norman Chapman was called in to interview him. Bundy believed he could manipulate or outsmart almost anyone, but Chapman skillfully drew information from the mysterious prisoner before officers even knew his true identity.

When the call came during those early morning hours, Chapman got dressed, left his home and drove to Pensacola.

His home was in Jay, Florida.

Welcome to the Panhandle, Ted.

—Michael Earl Simmons

Hear the story about Bundy’s capture on Thursday, November 12, 2026. For tickets, go to: https://sweetteamurders.com/event/the-last-stop/

Hurry – tickets are selling fast!