Ep 6. Beauty Queen

Forensic Factor is a true crime television series that showcases the application of forensic science to solve crimes. In season 2, episode 6 titled "Beauty Queen," the show delves into the case of a young woman who disappears after leaving a bar.

The episode explores the events leading up to the disappearance of Erin Gilmour, a 24-year-old beauty queen from Barrie, Ontario. Erin was last seen leaving a bar with a man named Richard Lubberts. The investigation into her disappearance is launched by the local police. Initially, the police suspect that Erin may have run away on her own accord. However, as days go by, they begin to consider the possibility of foul play.

The episode follows the investigation and the role of forensic science in solving the case. It highlights how forensic evidence unravelled the mystery of Erin's disappearance and helped the police catch the perpetrator.

As the police dug deeper into the case, they discovered that Richard had a criminal record and was known to frequent bars looking for women. He was the last person to be seen with Erin, and the police considered him to be a prime suspect in her disappearance. The episode shows how forensic analysis of Richard's car was crucial in the investigation. The car was brought in for examination, and forensic experts combed it for evidence. Hair and fiber samples were collected from the vehicle's upholstery, and DNA analysis was conducted. The results revealed that the hairs belonged to Erin and that there was evidence of blood in the car.

The forensic evidence gathered during the investigation was also compared to known samples from Richard's previous crime investigations. The results were conclusive, and Richard was arrested and charged with Erin's murder.

The episode also highlights the role of forensic anthropology in the case. Erin's remains were found in a wooded area near Richard's home. Her body was badly decomposed, and it was initially difficult to determine a cause of death. Forensic anthropologists were called in to examine the remains. They used their expertise to determine the age, sex, and height of the victim. They were also able to identify trauma to the skull, indicating that Erin had been struck with a blunt object.

Forensic scientists also examined soil samples from the area where Erin's remains were discovered. They found pollen and plant material that helped them determine the time of year when she was buried. This information was crucial in the investigation, and it gave the police a timeline of when Erin disappeared and when she was buried.

Overall, the episode "Beauty Queen" showcases the importance of forensic science in solving crimes. It highlights how forensic evidence can provide crucial leads in an investigation and lead to the arrest and conviction of perpetrators. The episode gives viewers an inside look into the complex web of forensic science that is used to bring justice to victims and their families.