The Likely Suspect Behind the Hit on Bugsy Siegel: A Historical Analysis

Bugsy Siegel, the charismatic and controversial figure behind the construction of the Flamingo Las Vegas, is often shrouded in mystery and suspicion surrounding his untimely demise. The question of who ordered the hit on him has been a subject of debate among historians, researchers, and armchair detectives alike. This article delves into the possible suspects and theories while providing historical context and evidence to support the claims.

Introduction to Bugsy Siegel and His Affiliation with the Mafia

Bugsy Siegel was a powerful figure in the early days of the Las Vegas Mafia. However, his reputation was marred by rumors and accusations that often painted him as a target for various factions. Siegel was known for his wit, charm, and ability to manipulate both ends of the law, which made him a formidable and unpredictable figure in the criminal underworld. While he was not officially a made man, his status in the mafia circles gave him a level of protection that made him untouchable by ordinary mobsters. This protection came from his close relationship with Meyer Lansky, a key figure in the American organized crime during the 1930s and 1940s.

Theories and Suspects

Theories abound regarding the person behind the hit on Bugsy Siegel. While some suggest that the hit was ordered by higher echelons of the mafia, others point to personal motives. One of the most intriguing theories involves the girlfriend of Bugsy Siegel, Virginia Hill, and her brother.

Virginia Hill's Brother as the Suspect

According to Bernie Sindler, a witness to the events leading up to Siegel's assassination, Virginia Hill's brother was known to have killed Siegel. Sindler stated that Virginia had told her brother about Bugsy continually beating her up, and it was this rattling news that forced the brother to take revenge. The shooter, as per Sindler, was a U.S. Marine named either Bob or Bill, who was stationed at Camp Pendleton near Oceanside, California.

Virginia Hill, who was seen as the epitome of a mob moll, was deeply involved in Siegel's life and business dealings. Her brother, whether a Marine or not, came from a background that might have been more inclined towards violent resolution of issues. The argument here is that the brother acted out of a sense of duty or loyalty to protect Virginia from the constant abuse.

Historical Context and Background

The era in which Siegel lived was marked by intense competition and conflict within the organized crime scene. With the establishment of the Commission under Lucky Luciano, a governing body was created to oversee the activities of the Mafia. For an order of this magnitude to have been given by the Commission, the evidence would have long been made public. However, no such evidence has come to light, leading historians to believe that the order, if any, came from a more personal source.

Mayer Lansky, one of Siegel's closest friends and business partners, would have stood by Siegel until the very end. It is safe to assume that if the Commission or any other high-level mafia figure wanted Siegel eliminated, they would have taken care to keep it a secret to avoid any leaks or backfirings. The idea of a high-level order is more likely to have been a fallback theory when personal motives did not hold up.

Conclusion: A Complex Web of Motives and Relationships

The hit on Bugsy Siegel remains one of the unsolved mysteries of the organized crime world. While the idea of the Commission ordering the hit may seem plausible due to the structure and operations of the Mafia, the lack of concrete evidence supports the theory that a personal motive was the driving force behind the act. The involvement of Virginia Hill's brother, driven by a sense of personal justice, offers a compelling alternative explanation.

The story of Bugsy Siegel is a testament to the complex web of relationships and motivations that characterize the criminal underworld. While the exact sequence of events leading to his death may never be fully understood, the numerous theories and stories that have emerged provide an intriguing glimpse into the lives of those who shaped the early days of Las Vegas and the American mafia.