The Smurl haunting is an alleged demonic possession and haunting case that took place in West Pittston, Pennsylvania, beginning in 1974. The Smurl family, Jack and Janet Smurl along with their children, claimed to have experienced a series of terrifying paranormal phenomena in their home, including foul odors, physical assaults, apparitions, and disturbing sounds. The disturbances reportedly escalated over time, with the family alleging that a demonic entity had attached itself to them and followed them even when they moved to a new residence.
The case gained widespread attention when renowned paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren became involved in 1986. The Warrens conducted an investigation and concluded that the Smurl home was infested by a powerful demonic presence. Their involvement brought significant media coverage to the case, including a television film and numerous news reports. The Catholic Church also became involved, with multiple exorcism attempts reportedly performed on the property.
The Smurl haunting remains one of the most controversial and well-known cases in the Warrens' career. While believers point to the consistency of the family's accounts and the Warrens' findings, skeptics have questioned the validity of the claims, suggesting alternative explanations such as psychological factors, hoaxes, or natural phenomena. The case has been documented in books, including the Warrens' own account in 'The Haunted,' and continues to be discussed in paranormal circles as a significant example of alleged demonic infestation.