The Rise and Fall of a Cult Follower: Mark Chynoweth’s Journey
Mark Chynoweth’s story is a chilling tale of devotion, betrayal, and violence. As a devout follower of Ervil LeBaron and an influential member of The Church of the First Born of the Lamb of God, or the Church of the Lamb, Chynoweth’s life was inextricably linked to the cult’s controversial practices and beliefs. His ultimate fate, a victim of the notorious “4 O’Clock Murders”, highlights the dark side of blind faith and the dangerous power of cult leaders.
A Family’s Descent into Cult Life
The Chynoweth family’s descent into the world of cults began with their involvement with Joel LeBaron’s group. The pivotal year was 1972, when a schism within the group led to Ervil LeBaron breaking away and forming the Church of the Lamb. This event marked a significant turning point for Mark Chynoweth, who would choose to follow Ervil, ultimately sealing his fate.
Chynoweth’s deep involvement with the sect saw him rise to a position of prominence, acting as LeBaron’s right-hand man. This role included enforcing LeBaron’s will, which reportedly extended to involvement in the murder of rivals. However, this allegiance would lead to a tragic end in June 1988, when Chynoweth was brutally gunned down in his Texas appliance shop. Dressed in a blue suit, the assassin shot Chynoweth three times, marking his death as part of a series of coordinated assassinations known as the “4 O’Clock Murders”.
The Architect Behind the Assassination: Ervil LeBaron’s Vendetta
Ervil LeBaron, a name synonymous with manipulation and violence, masterminded the “4 O’Clock Murders” from behind bars. His notorious ‘hit list’, part of his Book of New Commandments, included individuals he believed had betrayed him. Mark Chynoweth, once a trusted follower, found himself on this list after distancing himself from the cult’s polygamous practices.
Aaron LeBaron, succeeding Ervil as the leader, zealously pursued the fulfillment of these violent commandments. Reports later revealed that the executioner of Mark Chynoweth was none other than William Heber LeBaron, Ervil’s son. This act of patricidal obedience demonstrated the chilling extent of control exerted by cult leaders over their followers.
Distancing from the Cult: The Catalyst for a Tragic End
Mark Chynoweth’s decision to step back from the cult and its practices marked him for death. His attempt to lead a normal life with his family was seen as a betrayal by the sect, triggering his inclusion in the deadly hit list.
The Downfall of a Cult Leader’s Son: William Heber LeBaron
William Heber LeBaron’s life took a dark turn after assuming leadership of the cult. Engaging in criminal activities, including operating a large auto theft ring and involvement in a bank robbery, he soon found himself under the scrutiny of law enforcement. His involvement in the “4 O’Clock Murders” and other crimes led to his arrest and subsequent charges, including the murder of Mark Chynoweth.
This article paints a vivid picture of the life and untimely death of Mark Chynoweth, a man ensnared by the allure of a cult, only to fall victim to its darkest impulses. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of blind faith and the devastating consequences of cult indoctrination.
