Ep 5. The Smell Of Death

Mark of a Killer is a true-crime show that explores the heinous crimes committed by some of the deadliest serial killers in history. Each episode takes a deep dive into a specific serial killer, their modus operandi, and the hunt to bring them to justice.

The Smell Of Death is the fifth episode of the second season of Mark of a Killer. This episode delves into the case of Sean Vincent Gillis, a notorious serial killer who terrorized the city of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in the early 2000s.

The episode opens with the discovery of the first victim, 81-year-old Ann Bryan, who was found murdered in her home in Baton Rouge. The police investigate the scene and find that Bryan had been strangled and stabbed multiple times. The crime scene is brutal, and there is very little evidence to go on, leaving the police puzzled and confused.

The next victim is found a few months later. The victim is found by a group of hunters, and the police immediately connect the murder to the Bryan case. The victim, 58-year-old Donna Bennett Johnston, had also been strangled and stabbed multiple times. The police are now convinced that they are dealing with a serial killer.

As the investigation progresses, the police are able to identify a suspect, Sean Vincent Gillis. Gillis is a local man with a history of run-ins with the law. He is brought in for questioning, and after a grueling interrogation, he confesses to both murders.

Gillis's confession and subsequent investigation reveal the chilling details of his crimes. He had a fascination with death and spent years practicing his methods on animals before he started killing humans. He admitted to killing seven women over a span of four years, all in the Baton Rouge area.

The police also uncovered evidence that Gillis would keep trophies from his victims, such as their undergarments and jewelry. They found a stash of these items in his home, confirming his guilt and giving the families of the victims some closure.

The episode also interviews members of the Baton Rouge community who were affected by Gillis's crimes. They recount their fear and anxiety during the spree, and their relief when he was finally caught.

The Smell Of Death offers a glimpse into the mind of a serial killer and the devastating effects that their actions can have on a community. It is a chilling reminder of why law enforcement agencies must remain vigilant in their pursuit of justice and why we should never forget the victims of these heinous crimes.