Ep 10. Murder At Sunset - Part 1

On The Case With Paula Zahn, season 5, episode 10, titled "Murder At Sunset - Part 1", chronicles the perplexing murder case of an elderly woman named Jackie Galloway in the picturesque town of Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Galloway had lived by herself in her home for over a decade, and while she was a private person, she was well-liked by her neighbors who knew her as an active member in the community and a dedicated volunteer. But in September 2008, her estate manager, Anita Woerner, became concerned when she hadn't heard from Galloway in several days and decided to check on her. What she discovered was a gruesome scene: the 71-year-old woman lay dead in her home, having been bound, gagged, and asphyxiated.

As Paula Zahn and her team investigate the case, they delve into Galloway's history to try and find potential motives for the murder. They learn that in the months leading up to her death, Galloway had expressed concerns about her safety to friends and neighbors, mentioning that she felt someone was watching her. They also discover that there had been a previous attempt to break into her home just a few months prior. The investigation starts to revolve around the puzzling question of who had a motive for targeting this seemingly unassuming elderly woman.

Further complicating the case is the fact that the Santa Fe police department had no homicide division at the time of the murder, and the case was handed off to the Major Crimes Unit. Paula Zahn questions several of the lead investigators involved in the case to gain insight into how they navigated the difficulties that arose from this unusual situation.

The episode also highlights the role of forensic evidence in the investigation. The team explores the forensic evidence found at the scene of the crime, considering how supporting pieces of evidence can be compiled to identify a culprit. By examining bite marks left on Galloway's body and the DNA of a hair found at the scene, the investigators hope to find the killer.

As the episode unfolds, Paula Zahn and her team analyze the various leads that emerge. They look at Galloway's personal relationships, delving into the background of a man who had pressured her to give him a large sum of money. They examine the financial transactions that occurred around the time of Galloway's death, investigating whether someone with knowledge of her financial affairs could be the culprit. And they explore the possibility that the break-in attempt a few months prior to Galloway's murder may have been linked to her death.

"Murder At Sunset - Part 1" is a captivating episode that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats. It is a perfect showcase of the gripping true crime stories On The Case With Paula Zahn is well known for. The episode offers a glimpse into how investigators work to solve a perplexing murder case, highlighting the role forensic evidence plays in their investigation. Viewers will be eager to watch the next installment of the case to find out if the investigators are successful in identifying the culprit.