Ep 8. Murder at Sunrise

On The Case With Paula Zahn season 7 episode 8, titled "Murder at Sunrise," delves into the brutal killing of Shannon Siders, a young mother who disappeared from her rural Michigan home in 1989. Despite an extensive investigation, her body was not found until authorities received a tip 19 years later.

In this episode, host Paula Zahn guides viewers through the investigation that led to the discovery of Siders' remains and the subsequent trial of her killer, Michael Griffin. Zahn highlights the tireless work of law enforcement officials who never gave up on finding justice for Siders and her family.

Viewers hear from those who knew Siders best, including her mother and brother, who share their memories of the kind and caring person she was. They also recount the heart-wrenching moment they learned of her disappearance and the emotional toll it took on their family.

As Zahn delves deeper into the case, she explores the many twists and turns that made the investigation into Siders' death so challenging. She highlights the extensive search efforts, the discovery of key evidence, and the many suspects and witnesses who were interviewed over the years.

Through interviews with law enforcement officials and prosecutors, viewers gain insight into the challenges of bringing a cold case to trial more than two decades after the crime occurred. Zahn details the many obstacles that stood in the way of convicting Griffin, including a lack of solid evidence and the difficulty of proving his motive.

Despite these obstacles, prosecutors ultimately secured a guilty verdict, and Griffin was sentenced to life in prison. Zahn highlights the relief and sense of closure felt by Siders' family members as a result of the conviction.

"Murder at Sunrise" is a gripping episode that explores the heartbreak of a family torn apart by an unspeakable crime and the unbelievable determination of those who refused to give up until justice was served. Zahn's excellent reporting and insightful interviews shed light on the many challenges of solving a cold case and the importance of perseverance in the face of tragedy.