Ep 2. Nightmare On Elm Street

CopyCat Killers season 7 episode 2, "Nightmare On Elm Street" delves into the chilling real-life crimes that were inspired by the iconic horror movie franchise. The episode follows the tragic case of Jacqueline Gomez, a beautiful young woman who had her life taken away by an obsessive killer who was inspired by the character 'Freddy Krueger' from the 'Nightmare On Elm Street' movies.

The episode starts off by giving a brief overview of the investigation into Gomez's murder, which took place in California in 1995. From there, the detectives start to piece together the killer's modus operandi, which involved stalking his victim, breaking into her apartment and brutally attacking her with a sharp object.

As the story unfolds, viewers are given an insight into the life of the killer, Daniel McDonnell. A loner who had struggled with mental health issues and was bullied in school, McDonnell was obsessed with the 'Nightmare On Elm Street' movies and identified closely with the character of 'Freddy Krueger.' He even wrote a script for a movie that he hoped would be a homage to the franchise.

However, things took a dark turn when McDonnell's obsession with the movies turned into an obsession with the character of 'Freddy Krueger' himself. He began dressing up like the character and carrying out violent fantasies based on the movies. His chosen victim was Jacqueline Gomez, a girl he had met at a party. McDonnell had become fixated on her and stalked her relentlessly.

Through interviews with Gomez's friends and family members, as well as detectives involved in the case, the episode explores the events leading up to the murder and the police's investigation into the crime. McDonnell's mother also provides a glimpse into the killer's disturbed mind, shedding light on the mental illness that led him to commit such a heinous act.

The episode also delves into the impact of Gomez's murder on her loved ones, as well as the wider community. Viewers hear from her mother, who speaks movingly about her daughter's life and the pain of losing her in such a brutal and senseless manner. The episode serves as a reminder that real-life violence can be just as horrifying as anything that can be imagined on the big screen.

Overall, "Nightmare On Elm Street" is a gripping and disturbing episode of CopyCat Killers that sheds light on a truly tragic case of real-life violence inspired by a horror movie franchise. The episode is well-paced and well-produced, with a balance of expert analysis and personal interviews that make for a compelling watch.