Ep 1. Nightmare on Imperial Avenue

In the first episode of Killer Instinct with Chris Hansen, titled "Nightmare on Imperial Avenue," viewers are taken inside the disturbing case of Anthony Sowell. Sowell was a former marine living in Cleveland, Ohio, who went on to commit one of the most gruesome and disturbing crimes in the city's history.

The episode begins with Hansen introducing viewers to Sowell and his neighbors on Imperial Avenue. Sowell seems to be a quiet and unassuming man, but as the episode progresses, it becomes clear that he is anything but. Hansen talks to Sowell's former roommate and a woman who narrowly escaped his clutches, both of whom provide chilling insights into Sowell's behavior and personality.

As the episode delves deeper into the case, viewers are given a firsthand look at the horrors that took place inside Sowell's home. Sowell's neighbors had complained for months about a foul smell emanating from his house, but police didn't investigate until a woman called 911 claiming that she had been raped and held captive inside the home. What they discovered was a scene of unimaginable horror: the bodies of eleven women, all of whom had been raped, strangled, and left to rot.

Hansen speaks to the detectives who worked on the case, as well as family members of Sowell's victims. The details are graphic and disturbing, but also important in understanding the gravity of the situation. The episode never shies away from the brutality of Sowell's crimes, but it also highlights the bravery of the survivors and the compassion of those who worked to bring him to justice.

Throughout the episode, Hansen provides insightful commentary on the case and the psychology of someone who could commit such heinous crimes. He explores the concept of "disorganized killers," those who are impulsive and erratic in their behavior, as well as the idea that some individuals have a natural proclivity towards violence.

Overall, "Nightmare on Imperial Avenue" is a chilling and informative episode of Killer Instinct with Chris Hansen. It provides a sobering look at the devastating impact of violent crime on both individuals and communities, and underscores the importance of police work in bringing perpetrators to justice. Despite the difficult subject matter, Hansen's insightful commentary and the bravery of those who shared their stories make for compelling viewing.