Ep 96. The List Murders

In episode 96 of season 1 of Forensic Files, titled "The List Murders," viewers are drawn into the gripping story of a brutal quadruple homicide that shook the small town of Milledgeville, Georgia, in the early 1990s. In March 1995, authorities discovered the bodies of Randy Jackson, his ex-wife, and their two children in their home. The family had been shot execution-style, and the scene of the crime gave investigators little to work with.

As the investigation began, police learned that the victims had been on a hit list that included several other people in the community. The list had been discovered by a local bar owner, who was able to provide the police with the names of the targets. This information set investigators on a path to track down all of the people on the list, in hopes of preventing any more murders.

Over the course of the investigation, forensic experts used a wide range of techniques to gather vital evidence. They analyzed gunshot residue, used bloodstain-pattern analysis to determine where the murders had taken place, and even examined the growth rings in a tree near the crime scene to determine when the shots were fired. These forensic techniques helped investigators build a timeline of events and piece together the clues necessary to solve the case.

The investigation quickly focused on a man named Richard Allen Smith, a former convict with a criminal record dating back to the 1970s. Smith had been seen in the area around the time of the murders, and it was soon discovered that he had a personal connection to one of the people on the hit list. Investigators also found a gun that matched the caliber used in the murders in Smith's possession, as well as a key piece of evidence that linked him to the crime scene.

Despite facing overwhelming evidence, Smith maintained his innocence for months, but eventually, he was convicted and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The case marked a major victory for forensic science and showed the importance of using cutting-edge techniques to uncover the truth in even the most difficult cases.

As gripping as it is informative, "The List Murders" is a must-watch for fans of true crime and forensic science alike. The episode provides a fascinating look at the intricacies of a complex murder investigation and highlights the key role that forensics played in bringing a killer to justice. Throughout the episode, viewers are taken on a journey through the many twists and turns of the case, as investigators work tirelessly to uncover the truth. Whether you're a longtime fan of Forensic Files or a curious newcomer to the world of true crime, "The List Murders" is sure to leave you on the edge of your seat.