Ep 1. Hearts on Fire

In the first episode of the crime documentary series "Impact of Murder", titled "Hearts on Fire", viewers are taken on a harrowing journey through the tragedy that struck Tori Herr at the age of 17. Tori was a bright, popular, and beloved cheerleader at her high school in rural Arkansas. She had a bright future ahead of her with dreams of becoming a nurse. But all of that changed when she was brutally attacked and set on fire by a former classmate, Zachary Holly.

The episode starts off by introducing Tori's family and friends, who describe her as a kind-hearted and loving person who always lit up a room. Her parents, Dana and Willie Herr, reflect on how proud they were of their daughter's accomplishments, noting that she had already earned her nursing assistant certification and was planning to start nursing school soon.

It's then revealed that on November 20, 2012, Tori was at home babysitting her 6-year-old sister while her parents were out of town. That night, Zachary Holly, who was a neighbor and family friend, entered the Herr family's home and attacked Tori, doused her with gasoline, and set her on fire. The episode details the horrific extent of Tori's injuries, which left her with burns covering 98% of her body.

The subsequent investigation by law enforcement officials, including the local sheriff and FBI agents, is recounted in gripping detail. The episode examines the immediate aftermath of the attack and the search for the person responsible. The case quickly becomes a national headline, with the community rallying around the Herr family to offer support and prayers.

As the investigation unfolds, a picture begins to emerge of Zachary Holly as a troubled individual with a history of making inappropriate advances towards minors and failing to register as a sex offender. The episode explores Holly's past and his connections to the Herr family, as well as the evidence that ultimately led to his arrest and conviction.

In addition to the police investigation, doctors and nurses who treated Tori in the weeks and months following the attack share their emotional experiences in trying to save her life. Their harrowing accounts of the toll that Tori's injuries took on her body are difficult to watch, but they serve as a testament to the incredible strength and resilience of Tori and her family.

The episode ends on a poignant note, with members of the Herr family reflecting on how the tragedy has changed their lives forever. The impact of Tori's attack is felt not just by her family, but by the entire community. The episode is a powerful exploration of the profound effects that violent crime can have on all those affected by it.

Overall, "Impact of Murder" is a gripping and emotional true-crime series that explores the lasting impact of homicide from the perspective of those left behind. The first episode, "Hearts on Fire", is a powerful introduction to the series, offering a detailed account of one family's struggle to come to terms with an unimaginable tragedy. Although difficult to watch at times, the episode ultimately serves as a powerful reminder of the need to ensure that justice is done for victims of violent crime, no matter how difficult the road may be.