Pedro Rodrigues Filho, also known as Pedrinho Matador or “Killer Pete,” was a notorious serial killer in his country and served as the inspiration for a complex character on television. He claimed responsibility for over 100 deaths spanning five decades, with official convictions for 71 murders.
Having spent more than 40 years behind bars, he gained a reputation as a modern-day “Robin Hood,” targeting drug traffickers, gang members, and other criminals. Born on October 29, 1954, in a rural Brazilian town, his life was marred by violence from the beginning, as his mother was assaulted by his father while pregnant.
Pedro’s exposure to violence at a young age influenced his future choices, according to his own account. He left home at nine, eventually ending up in São Paulo where he turned to a life of crime and homelessness. By his early teens, he allegedly committed his first murder, and his violent tendencies became more apparent.
In his teenage years, Pedro shot and killed a local drug dealer, escalating into further acts of violence against the dealer’s family members. His ruthless actions were driven by a perceived sense of power and a skewed sense of justice.
As he entered his late teens, Pedro became involved in the drug trade in São Paulo and took control of operations after the death of a dealer. His vengeful spree continued until his arrest in 1973 at the age of 18, leaving behind a trail of bodies.
Sentenced to 128 years in prison, Pedro’s time behind bars only fueled his violent tendencies as he continued to murder fellow inmates. Despite receiving an extended sentence, he was released in 2007 due to legal limitations on incarceration time in Brazil.
Following his release, Pedro claimed to have reformed, embracing Christianity and using his past experiences to warn others about the consequences of crime. He started a YouTube channel to share his message of redemption and deterrence from criminal activities.
On March 5, 2023, Pedro was fatally shot outside a family member’s home, ending his tumultuous life at the age of 68. His story, which captivated international attention, drew comparisons to fictional characters, with his unique code of ethics shaping the portrayal of anti-heroes in popular culture.