Ep 11. A Murder at Echo Lake

In the eleventh episode of On The Case With Paula Zahn, titled "A Murder at Echo Lake," viewers are taken on a journey through the investigation of a brutal murder in North Conway, New Hampshire. The episode begins with the discovery of 70-year old Cindy Benson's body on the shore of Echo Lake. She had been savagely beaten and left for dead, sending shockwaves through the small town and leaving investigators with a puzzling case that would take years to solve.

Viewers are introduced to the victim's daughter, Michele Corson, who describes her mother as a free spirit who loved to travel and had a passion for photography. The episode then takes us back to the day of the murder, August 23, 2009, and the events leading up to it. Cindy had spent the day enjoying the outdoors, taking photographs and swimming in Echo Lake. Later that evening, she was supposed to meet friends for dinner, but she never showed up. Concerned, her daughter Michele went to Echo Lake to search for her mother, and that's when she made the devastating discovery.

Detective Sergeant William Bright of the New Hampshire State Police explains the challenges he faced as the lead investigator on the case. Cindy's body was found in a heavily wooded area, and with no witnesses and few clues, it was a difficult crime scene to piece together. The investigation quickly became a top priority, and law enforcement brought in every available resource to work on the case.

Through interviews and surveillance footage, police were able to determine that a man named Christopher Gribble had been in the area at the time of the murder. Gribble was known to be a troubled individual with a history of mental illness. His behavior and statements following the murder made him a prime suspect, and he was eventually arrested and charged with the crime.

As the episode progresses, viewers are taken through the incredible work done by law enforcement as they built their case against Gribble. His co-conspirators, including his girlfriend, were also implicated in the crime. Through interviews and forensic evidence, police were able to piece together the events leading up to Cindy's murder and the brutal attack that led to her death.

But the case was far from cut and dry. Gribble and his accomplices were known to be part of a satanic cult, and their behavior and actions were difficult for many to comprehend. It was a case that rocked the community and left many wondering how such a senseless act of violence could happen.

Zahn and her team delve deep into the psyche of Gribble and his co-conspirators, exploring the complexities of the case and providing a fascinating look at the criminal mind. Interviews with law enforcement officials, family members, and community members provide a well-rounded picture of the events leading up to and following the murder.

"A Murder at Echo Lake" is a gripping and emotional episode that will leave viewers with a greater understanding of the complexities of criminal investigations and the toll they often take on the families and communities that are affected. Zahn and her team provide a unique perspective on one of the most puzzling murder cases in recent history and leave viewers with a sense of hope that justice was ultimately served.