Ep 5. Killer Instinct
- January 2, 2009
In Dateline season 17 episode 5, titled "Killer Instinct," viewers are taken on a journey to uncover the truth behind a heinous crime committed in a small town. The episode opens with a reenactment of the murder of a young woman named Jamie Rose Bolin, who was viciously attacked while home alone with her toddler son. The police have no leads in the case, and fear that a dangerous predator is on the loose.
The investigation quickly focuses on a man named Justin Helzer, a drifter who had been passing through the town around the time of the murder. Helzer is a charismatic and charming figure, but there are hints that he may have a dark side. The police obtain a search warrant for his vehicle, and discover a variety of disturbing items, including knives, handcuffs, and a map of the town. They also find evidence that connects Helzer to the murder scene.
As more information comes to light, it becomes clear that Helzer is not acting alone. He and his girlfriend, Keri Mendoza, have been living out of their car and drifting from town to town, committing a series of atrocities along the way. They are both deeply disturbed individuals, with a shared fascination with Satanism and death.
The episode delves into the psychology of Helzer and Mendoza, exploring what led them to commit such senseless acts of violence. It also highlights the tireless work of law enforcement agencies and the impact that this kind of crime has on small communities.
Throughout the episode, viewers are drawn in by the tension and suspense of the investigation. The police work tirelessly to piece together the evidence and build a case against Helzer and Mendoza. As the trial approaches, the stakes are high, and the outcome is far from certain.
In the end, "Killer Instinct" is a chilling portrait of two individuals consumed by their own twisted desires. The episode asks difficult questions about human nature and the limits of empathy, leaving viewers with a sense of both horror and fascination. It is a gripping and deeply unsettling true crime story that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.
