Ep 6. Olympic Bomber

Forensic Factor season 4 episode 6, titled "Olympic Bomber," investigates the bombing of the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia. On July 27th of that year, a bomb exploded in Centennial Olympic Park, killing one person and injuring over 100 more. The episode examines the forensic evidence gathered by investigators and the techniques used to identify the perpetrator.

The show begins by reviewing the events of the evening of the bombing, which occurred during a concert in the park. Witnesses describe the chaos and confusion that followed the explosion, as emergency services rushed to the scene to tend to the wounded. The investigation was soon underway, led by the FBI and a team of forensic specialists.

One of the most critical pieces of evidence found at the scene was a fragment of the bomb itself. The show examines how this evidence was examined and analyzed in a forensic lab, revealing key details about the construction of the explosive device. Forensic scientists were able to determine that the bomb was made with a specific type of TNT that was widely available in the United States at the time. This led investigators to focus their attention on domestic terrorists rather than foreign groups.

The investigation faced several setbacks and false leads in the following weeks, and the media became involved, speculating about potential suspects and motives. The show explores how investigators relied on witness statements and overlooked details to build a timeline of events and identify possible suspects.

One important lead came from a security guard who saw a suspicious-looking man in the park shortly before the bombing. This man was later identified as Eric Rudolph, a known extremist with links to white supremacist groups. The show delves into Rudolph's background and his history of violence and attacks on abortion clinics and gay establishments.

The forensic evidence gathered at Rudolph's home provided a crucial link between him and the Olympic bombing. Bomb-making materials and a remote control device similar to the one used to detonate the Olympic bomb were found in his possession. Investigators were able to trace the components of the device to purchases made in the area around Rudolph's home.

The final segment of the show details the apprehension and trial of Eric Rudolph, who was eventually caught after five years on the run. The forensic evidence gathered by investigators was a key piece of the prosecution's case, providing concrete links between Rudolph and the bombing. The episode concludes with the sentencing of Rudolph to multiple life sentences for his crimes.

In "Olympic Bomber," Forensic Factor provides a fascinating look at the forensic investigation behind one of the most devastating terrorist attacks in recent American history. The use of forensic evidence and advanced techniques to identify and apprehend suspects is explored in-depth, highlighting the importance of forensic science in solving complex criminal cases.