Ep 13. Aspen: Murder on the Slopes

In season 4 episode 13 of City Confidential, entitled "Aspen: Murder on the Slopes," a town known for its opulent resorts and glitzy nightlife is rocked by a grisly crime. The episode delves into the murder of successful businessman Steven B. Singer, a Texas millionaire beloved in the Aspen community. A prominent figure, Singer had built a real estate empire in the area that included the city's famed Hotel Jerome, and was known for giving generously to local charities and organizations.

Singer's murder took place in March of 1999, and the episode opens with the grim discovery of his body in his home. Investigators arrive on the scene to find that Singer had been brutally beaten and stabbed, with blood spatter and signs of a struggle throughout the house. As the investigation progresses, it becomes clear that the crime was committed by someone who knew Singer well – there was no sign of forced entry.

The show paints a vivid portrait of Aspen, both before and after Singer's death. The wealthy enclave, with its high-speed lifts and glamorous events, is contrasted with the darker side of the city. Interviews with locals and experts show the audience that beneath the glitz and glamour, there are real problems - including drug addiction, poverty, and crime.

After a few red herrings, investigators begin to focus on Singer's own family – his wife, Frances, and their two sons, Stewart and Jordan. Singer's relationship with Frances was contentious, and the episode explores the couple's acrimonious divorce, as well as Singer's ongoing legal battles with his son Stewart, who was in the process of launching his own venture in real estate. In a bizarre twist, investigators also find that Singer kept a secret apartment in town that he used to carry on an affair – a fact that provides yet another possible motive for his murder.

Throughout the investigation, the episode expertly teases out the various theories surrounding Singer's death, and explores the complexity of the case. The audience is introduced to a number of colorful characters, from Singer's housekeeper and part-time lover, to the various members of his family and business associates. Despite numerous twists and turns, however, the case goes cold for months.

Eventually, a break comes in the form of a tip from a mysterious informant. With this new lead, investigators begin to unravel the tangled web of Singer's life and relationships. As the evidence mounts against them, Singer's family members are arrested and charged with his murder. The episode concludes with the trial and its aftermath, leaving viewers to ponder the high price of ambition and power.

City Confidential's "Aspen: Murder on the Slopes" is a compelling, well-crafted episode of the true crime series, offering a riveting portrait of a wealthy community gone awry. Through interviews with friends, family members, and key players in the investigation, the episode explores the motives, relationships, and secrets that led to Singer's tragic death. The episode is superbly edited, building tension and suspense until the twists and turns of the case reach a satisfying climax. All in all, "Aspen: Murder on the Slopes" is a must-see for fans of the true crime genre.