Our Story
Background
The Haunt in Atascadero is the longest-running and most famous haunted house in San Luis Obispo County. It originated as a young man’s garage dream and grew into its current location. The doors have been open in Atascadero since 2014, serving thousands annually.
The Haunt was formed in 2015 by merging two local haunts: TNT Terrors and Mid State Scare.
TNT Terrors, founded by Chris Towers, was initially created in his parents’ garage in San Diego, California. Neighborhood kids did the building, acting and scaring. Towers moved up to the San Luis Obispo area during his college days. After university, the idea of a haunted house grew as a passion.
Mid State Scare, founded by Randy Russom and three friends in Arroyo Grande, California, was open for six years before the merge.
As Founder and Owner, Chris Towers is the main man. He is assisted by dedicated volunteers, including building crews, actors, and makeup artists.
Annually, we begin building in March and continue through September, when The Haunt is up and scaring through Halloween.
Meet The Leadership Team
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Chris Towers
Chris brings a wealth of technical and engineering expertise to his leadership role. With a Bachelor of Science in General Engineering from California Polytechnic State University, Chris combines his background in electrical, mechanical, and civil systems with a passion for immersive storytelling. Outside of his work in the energy sector, he has dedicated over a decade to crafting unforgettable haunted experiences, leading The Haunt as a community-driven and creatively innovative attraction.
PRODUCTION OPERATIONS
Sean O’Donnell
Sean brings a unique blend of creativity, technical expertise, and decades of haunted house experience to his role. Sean’s journey began in 1995 when he co-founded a garage haunt with his friend Lonny Cummings in San Jose, CA, and even built props for the renowned Pirates of Emerson haunt in Fremont, CA. After moving to Paso Robles in 2020, Sean discovered The Haunt and quickly became an integral part of its creative team.
In 2021, Sean’s dedication and ingenuity shone when he stepped in to lead operations during a critical moment, earning the trust and admiration of the team. Known for his expertise in animatronics, prop building, and cutting-edge haunt technology like Arduino programming and VenuMagic, Sean is a driving force behind The Haunt’s immersive and unforgettable experiences.
With a passion for community, storytelling, and innovation, Sean ensures that every scare at The Haunt is executed with precision and creativity, making it a must-visit attraction year after year.
MARKETING, COMMUNICATIONS & VOLUNTEER COORDINATION
“The Voice Behind the Darkness.”
Martin shapes the stories, shadows, and screams that define The Haunt in Atascadero. As Director of Marketing, Communications & Volunteer Coordination, he oversees the Haunt’s public identity while guiding the Scream Team through every season of controlled chaos.
From media and digital strategy to volunteer operations and year-round engagement, Martin is the force that keeps our monsters organized, our message sharp, and our guests terrified. Blending leadership, creativity, and haunt-world experience, he helps craft the atmosphere that brings thousands of thrill-seekers into our nightmares each year.
