Ep 14. Signed in Blood

On The Case With Paula Zahn is a true-crime docu-series that follows renowned journalist Paula Zahn as she delves deep into some of the most perplexing murder cases in America. In season 7 episode 14, titled Signed in Blood, Paula examines a case that involves the brutal killing of a young woman, whose body was found in an abandoned building in Georgia.

The episode begins with an introduction to the victim, who was a 21-year-old nursing student named Melissa Lewis. Melissa had a bright future ahead of her and was described as a selfless person who was always there to help others. Her family and friends were devastated when they learned about her brutal murder.

Paula Zahn then takes us through the events leading up to Melissa's death. Melissa had been dating a man named Justin Chapman for a few months and had broken up with him just a few days before her death. Justin was known to have a temper and had been abusive towards Melissa in the past. He was the prime suspect in Melissa's murder, but the case was far from straightforward.

The investigation into Melissa's murder was complicated by the fact that her body had been moved from the original crime scene to the abandoned building where it was found. There were also no witnesses to the crime, and the evidence gathered at the scene was scarce. The police had to rely on forensics to piece together what had happened.

As Paula Zahn talks to the investigators and Melissa's family and friends, she uncovers some startling details about the case. She learns that Melissa had received threatening messages from Justin in the days leading up to her murder. She also finds out that Justin had visited Melissa's apartment on the night of the murder, but had left before the police arrived.

The police were able to find some crucial evidence in Justin's car, including a shirt with bloodstains that matched Melissa's DNA. This evidence, combined with Justin's history of violence towards Melissa, made him the prime suspect in the case. However, Justin maintained his innocence and had an alibi for the night of the murder.

As the investigation continued, the police discovered that Melissa's murder was not an isolated incident. There had been another murder a few months earlier, where the victim had also been moved from the original crime scene. The similarities between the two cases led the police to believe that they were dealing with a serial killer.

Paula Zahn interviews the lead detective on the case, who talks about the difficulties of investigating a serial killer. He describes the painstaking work that went into collecting and analyzing evidence and the long hours spent interviewing potential suspects.

As the case progressed, the police were able to build a strong case against Justin. They found a witness who placed Justin near the abandoned building where Melissa's body was found, and they were also able to link him to the earlier murder.

In the end, Justin was convicted of both murders and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The case was seen as a victory for Melissa's family and friends, who had been campaigning tirelessly for justice.

On The Case With Paula Zahn season 7 episode 14, Signed in Blood, is a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of a complex murder case. Paula Zahn's insightful interviews with the investigators, as well as Melissa's family and friends, offer a unique perspective on the investigation and the impact of the crime on those involved.