Ep 8. A Promise to Helene

On Dateline season 29 episode 8 titled "A Promise to Helene," the show takes an in-depth look into the mysterious death of Helene Pruszynski, a young woman whose body was found in a remote area outside of the city of Baltimore. Helene was a bright and promising journalist who was just starting her career and had a whole life ahead of her. As the investigation unfolds, secrets and betrayals come to light, and the truth becomes even more elusive.

Helene's body was found in the woods on May 22, 2013, in a secluded area about 30 miles north of Baltimore. The discovery of the young woman's body shook the small town of Rodgers Forge, where Helene lived with her family. Helene was well-known in the community and had recently graduated from Towson University with a degree in journalism. She had just landed her first job as an assistant editor at the Baltimore Sun, and her future seemed bright.

The police were immediately called to the scene, and they began a thorough investigation of Helene's death. The initial report indicated that Helene was likely killed by a single gunshot wound to the head. The police also found a .22 caliber handgun near her body, which was later determined to be the murder weapon. The investigation quickly led to Helene's ex-boyfriend, an Air Force officer named Ryan Michael McGuinness.

Ryan was the last person to see Helene alive, and he had recently broken up with her after a tumultuous and volatile relationship. Ryan was initially cooperative with the police, but as the investigation progressed, he became increasingly defensive and uncooperative. He hired a high-powered defense attorney, and the case quickly turned into a legal battle.

The show covers the long and often arduous investigation into the case, including interviews with detectives, witnesses, and family members of the victim and suspect. The show examines the evidence presented during the trial, including the prosecution's argument that Ryan had made a death threat against Helene just weeks before her murder. The show also includes interviews with Ryan's defense team, who argue that the prosecution's case is circumstantial and based on hearsay.

"A Promise to Helene" is a gripping and emotional journey into the heart of a tragic crime that changed the lives of many people forever. The show presents an in-depth look at the investigation, including forensic evidence, witness interviews, and courtroom drama. Ultimately, the show leaves the question of who killed Helene unresolved, and viewers will be left to draw their own conclusions as they watch the evidence unfold before their eyes.

The show is a must-watch for fans of true crime and those who are interested in the criminal justice system. The show provides an in-depth look at a complex and deeply emotional case that highlights the challenges of investigating and prosecuting homicide cases. It also shows how crime affects the lives of everyone involved, from the family members of the victim to the defense attorneys who defend the accused. "A Promise to Helene" is a gripping and emotional episode of Dateline that is not to be missed.