Catching Killers Season 1 Episode 1 Body Count: The Green River Killer

In the first episode of Catching Killers season 1 titled "Body Count: The Green River Killer," viewers are taken through the investigation process of one of the most notorious serial killers in American history.

The Green River Killer was responsible for the murders of at least 49 women in the Seattle-Tacoma area from the early 1980s to the late 1990s. Despite the extensive resources put into the investigation, it took nearly 20 years to apprehend the killer.

Through interviews with law enforcement officials and forensic experts, the episode takes us through the various stages of the investigation. From the initial discovery of a victim's body, to the creation of a task force to investigate the murders, to the development of innovative forensic techniques, viewers are shown the painstaking work that went into identifying and ultimately catching the killer.

One of the key breakthroughs in the investigation was the creation of a DNA database, which allowed investigators to compare DNA samples from known suspects to evidence found at the crime scenes. This approach ultimately led to the arrest and conviction of Gary Ridgway, who had evaded detection for years despite being a prime suspect early in the investigation.

The episode also highlights the emotional toll that the investigation took on the families of the victims, many of whom had waited decades for justice. Interviews with family members show both the pain and frustration of not knowing who was responsible for their loved one's death, as well as the sense of closure and relief that came with the killer's eventual apprehension.

Overall, "Body Count: The Green River Killer" provides a detailed and thorough exploration of one of the most complex investigations in recent history, and offers insight into the forensic techniques that were crucial in bringing a killer to justice.