It took an eight-year hunt for this savage serial killer by Russian detective Viktor Burakov, before Chikatilo was caught. By that time there had been 53 victims ranging in age from eight to 40 years old. This was the worst example of serial killing in the history of Russia and perhaps the world.;Robert Cullen has had exclusive access not only to the two detectives who broke the case, but also to all the police files concerning the affair. He continued his investigation throughout Chikatilo's trial and interviewed Chikatilo before his execution.