Ep 4. Tracks of a Killer

On The Case With Paula Zahn season 13 episode 4 is titled Tracks of a Killer and it is an intense crime investigation series that follows Paula Zahn, a seasoned journalist as she dives into some of America's most baffling murder cases.

This episode examines the case of a young woman named Michelle Norris who went missing in 2007. Michelle was last seen hitchhiking near a truck stop in Virginia and her remains were discovered by hunters in a remote forest months later. Her murder had gone unsolved for more than a decade until a breakthrough in DNA technology led the investigators to a potential killer.

The episode begins with a recount of Michelle's last known whereabouts as the camera shows footage of the forests and roadsides of Virginia, the same settings where she was last seen. Paula Zahn introduces the case, detailing the years of frustration that investigators faced as they chased down leads. But their luck changed in 2020 when a new FBI program called the Genetic Genealogy Unit helped crack the case.

The main suspect in the case is a truck driver who had a close resemblance to the composite sketch of the killer. Through the use of DNA samples, the investigators were able to link the suspect to the murder scene and identify him as the perpetrator. The episode delves into the trucker's life history and paints a disturbing picture of a man with a violent past and a propensity to attack vulnerable women.

The program delves into the complexities surrounding the use of genetic genealogy, highlighting the ethical considerations and privacy concerns raised by such technology. At the same time, the program details how the technique has revolutionized investigative techniques and is transforming the landscape of criminal investigations.

Paula Zahn interviews the key players involved in the case, including law enforcement officers, forensic experts, and family members of the victim. She provides context, analysis, and insight into the case and helps viewers understand the intricacies and technical nuances of the investigation.

Overall, Tracks of a Killer is a gripping and suspenseful episode that showcases the power of forensic technology and the tenacity of investigators in resolving cold cases. It is a testament to the evolving nature of criminal investigations and provides a sobering reminder of the importance of seeking justice for the victims of crimes.