Forensic Files Season 7 Episode 25 A Ghost in the Machine

In season 7 episode 25 of Forensic Files, titled "A Ghost in the Machine," viewers explore a case that centers around the death of a 7-year-old girl named Ashley Ellerin in Hollywood, California. Ashley was found brutally murdered in her home in February 2001, and the case remained unsolved for years until DNA evidence pointed to the killer.

The episode begins with a description of Ashley's promising life. She was a young student who loved to dance and had aspirations of becoming an actress. Her life was tragically cut short when she was found dead in her home just hours before attending a Grammys after-party with actor Ashton Kutcher, who she was casually dating at the time.

The investigators on the case struggled to find any leads until DNA evidence surfaced linking the crime to another case that had similarities, including the use of a knife. This led investigators to a man named Michael Gargiulo, who lived in the same area and had a connection to Ashley's neighbor. Additional evidence eventually linked Gargiulo to other attacks and murders, and he was ultimately tried and convicted for multiple crimes.

Through interviews with investigators, prosecutors, and Ashley's loved ones, the episode covers the intricate web of evidence that ultimately led to Gargiulo's arrest and conviction. It explores the various forensic techniques used to analyze DNA evidence, as well as the lengths that investigators went to in order to connect the dots between the murders and locate the perpetrator.

The episode also sheds light on the devastating impact that Ashley's death had on her loved ones. Her parents speak out about their grief and loss, as well as their hope that justice will be served. Viewers will come away from this episode with a deeper understanding of the complex work that goes into forensic investigations, as well as the real-life impact that violent crimes have on families and communities.