Ep 3. At the Bottom of the Pool

In episode 3 of season 26 of Dateline, titled "At the Bottom of the Pool," viewers are taken on a suspenseful ride through the investigation of a mysterious death.

The episode begins with a 911 call reporting a drowning at a home in an affluent neighborhood. The victim, a young woman named Ashley Fallis, was found at the bottom of the pool. Her husband, Tom, told investigators that Ashley had been drinking heavily and was suicidal. Tom's story of what happened that night changes several times, adding to the already suspicious circumstances surrounding Ashley's death.

Ashley's family, who never believed Tom's story, relentlessly pursued justice for their daughter. Over the course of the investigation, they would uncover many shocking details about Tom's behavior, including his history of domestic violence and substance abuse.

As the case unravels, viewers are given a glimpse into the complexities of the legal system. The prosecutor must weigh the evidence against Tom and decide whether or not they have enough to bring him to trial. Meanwhile, Ashley's family struggles to come to terms with their loss and fight for justice.

The episode also delves into the impact of PTSD on those who serve in the military. Ashley's husband, Tom, had been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, and it is revealed that he suffered from PTSD. The episode explores the challenges faced by veterans seeking mental health treatment and raises questions about how PTSD may have contributed to Tom's behavior leading up to Ashley's death.

Throughout the episode, viewers are left on the edge of their seats as new evidence is uncovered and old theories are debunked. The investigation into Ashley's death is a rollercoaster of emotions, from heartbreak to anger to hope.

"At the Bottom of the Pool" is a powerful episode that showcases the intricacies of a high-profile case. It is a reminder that justice is not always easy to come by, but that perseverance and determination can make all the difference.