The Strange Tale of Clairvius Narcisse: Haiti's "Vodou Zombie"

In 1980, Clairvius Narcisse was recognized by several people including his sister in the Haitian city of L'Estère. This would not have been unusual except for the fact that Clairvius had died in 1962

Depiction of Clairvius Narcisse

Background

Here at Tales From the Underworld, we have covered some strange stories—from vampires to mummies and even werewolves! This Halloween, we bring you the strange saga of Clairvius Narcisse, a Haitian man who some, including his own sister, claim was a real-life zombie.

In 1980, a man approached Angelina Narcisse in the Haitian city of L'Estère, claiming to be her brother Clairvius. The only problem is that Clairvius Narcisse died in 1962.

However, after identifying himself using a family nickname and other personal family details that a stranger would not know, Angelina, as well as many other people there, believed that the man was, in fact, Angelina’s long-deceased brother, Clairvius.

The man’s tale was bizarre and surreal. He had seemingly returned from the dead.