Ep 89. The Golden State Killer

The Golden State Killer terrorized California for over a decade, committing at least 13 murders and over 50 rapes. Despite an intense investigation by law enforcement, the killer remained elusive for decades. But in 2018, authorities finally made an arrest thanks to new advancements in DNA technology.

In this episode, 48 Hours Mystery delves into the case of the Golden State Killer, exploring how the killer managed to evade capture for so long and examining the methods used to finally bring him to justice. Through exclusive interviews with detectives who worked the case, survivors, and family members of the victims, viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the impact of the Golden State Killer's crimes and the relief felt by many after his arrest.

The episode takes a chronological approach, beginning with the first reported rape in 1976 and following the killer's trail throughout the years. The show explores the various methods used by the killer to avoid detection, including monitoring police radio frequencies and breaking into homes prior to attacks to remove items that could potentially leave DNA evidence. Viewers will hear from survivors of the attacks, some of whom are speaking publicly for the first time, and learn about the continued trauma that these crimes have caused throughout the decades.

Throughout the episode, viewers are provided with insight into the investigation itself and the various law enforcement agencies involved. The show discusses how the killer's use of multiple aliases and his attacks in different jurisdictions made it difficult for detectives to connect the dots and identify a suspect. Despite this, law enforcement persevered, working tirelessly over many years to try and capture the elusive killer.

The show also explores the role of DNA technology in solving the case. With advancements in genetic genealogy databases, authorities were eventually able to identify a distant relative of the killer and use this information to narrow down a suspect pool. Ultimately, the evidence led them to Joseph James DeAngelo, a former police officer who was living in Citrus Heights, California.

The episode concludes with a look at the impact of DeAngelo's arrest on survivors, family members of the victims, and the broader community. Viewers will hear from those who were directly impacted by the Golden State Killer's crimes and learn about the mixed emotions that many felt after DeAngelo's arrest. While many were relieved that the killer was finally caught, others struggled to come to terms with the trauma they had experienced. The episode provides a poignant and powerful look at the complex emotions surrounding the case and the resilience of those impacted by the criminal acts of the Golden State Killer.

Overall, 48 Hours Mystery's episode on the Golden State Killer is a compelling and powerful look at one of the most notorious serial killers in American history. Through a combination of interviews, archival footage, and expert analysis, the episode provides a detailed exploration of the killer's crimes and the impact they had on the lives of those affected. Viewers who are interested in true crime, DNA technology, and criminal investigations will all find something to enjoy in this gripping episode.