Ep 32. Over And Over

In episode 32 of season 8 of Forensic Files, titled Over and Over, viewers are taken on a journey through the investigation of a tragic car accident. On a fateful day in May of 2000, a yellow Pontiac Sunfire collided with a silver Honda Civic at a busy intersection in Port Orchard, Washington. The driver of the Civic was killed instantly, while the driver of the Sunfire, a young woman named Heather Hagar, walked away with just a few scratches.

Initially, the accident was considered just that - an accident. However, as investigators delved deeper into the case, they began to uncover a web of deception that would leave them reeling. It all started with the question of who was actually behind the wheel of the Pontiac Sunfire at the time of the crash. Heather Hagar had initially claimed she was driving, but eyewitnesses suggested that it was actually her boyfriend, Douglas Pringle, who was behind the wheel.

As the investigation progressed, it became clear that Heather and Douglas had a history of drug use and criminal behavior. In fact, they were both on probation at the time of the accident. It was also discovered that Heather had a history of insurance fraud, having previously staged a car accident and attempted to collect insurance money.

Despite the mounting evidence against them, Heather and Douglas stuck to their story - that Heather was the driver at the time of the accident. However, investigators utilized various forensic techniques to prove otherwise. For example, they analyzed the damage to the vehicles and determined that it was consistent with the Pontiac Sunfire striking the Honda Civic, and not the other way around. They also did extensive testing on the steering wheel and pedals of the Sunfire, ultimately determining that it was highly unlikely that Heather was in the driver's seat at the time of the accident.

As the case went to trial, Heather and Douglas continued to maintain their innocence, but ultimately they were convicted of vehicular homicide. They were each sentenced to ten years in prison, bringing a small sense of justice to the family of the victim.

Overall, the episode Over and Over is a gripping and suspenseful look at the power of forensic science in unraveling complicated criminal cases. It showcases the tireless work of investigators, who never gave up until they were able to uncover the truth behind a tragic accident. Viewers who enjoy true crime and forensic science will find this episode particularly engrossing.