Ep 2. The Hog Trail Murders

Forensic Factor is a crime documentary series that explores some of the most fascinating cases in forensic science history. In season four, episode two, titled "The Hog Trail Murders," the show examines a disturbing case that took place in 1997 in the small town of Bellflower, Missouri. Over a two-week period, three women were brutally murdered and their bodies were left in remote areas along what was known as the "Hog Trail."

The Hog Trail was a notorious area in Bellflower where local residents would often dump the remains of dead livestock. The area was so remote and seldom traveled that it was the perfect place for a killer to dispose of bodies undetected. The murders sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community, and the local police were at a loss as to how to catch the killer.

The police had little to go on in the early stages of the investigation. The victims had no connection to each other, and there were no witnesses or leads to follow. It wasn't until the third victim was discovered that the police began to suspect that they were dealing with a serial killer. The victims had all been strangled and left in similar positions, leading investigators to believe that they were all killed by the same person.

The police enlisted the help of forensic experts to gather evidence and analyze it in the hopes of identifying the killer. Forensic scientists examined DNA samples collected from the crime scenes, as well as the physical evidence found on the victims' bodies. They conducted toxicology tests to determine if the women had been drugged, and they examined fibers and other trace evidence to establish a timeline of events.

Through painstaking analysis of the evidence, the forensic team was able to identify a suspect. The evidence showed that the killer had taken great care to cover his tracks, but small details, such as fibers found on the victims' clothing and cigarette butts left at the scene, ultimately led investigators to their suspect.

The episode delves into the meticulous work done by forensic scientists and investigators to build their case against the suspect. Through interviews with the investigators and forensic scientists involved in the case, viewers are given a behind-the-scenes look at the methods and techniques used to catch a killer.

Overall, "The Hog Trail Murders" is a gripping episode that shows how forensic science can be used to solve even the most complex and challenging crimes. The investigation was a true testament to the power of forensic evidence and the dedication of law enforcement to bring a killer to justice.