Ep 4. Water Hazard
- TVPG
- December 27, 2006
- 21 min
-
6.9 (59)
Forensic Files season 20 episode 4, "Water Hazard," tells the story of a man named Mike Williams who disappeared on a duck hunting trip in Florida on December 16, 2000. Despite an exhaustive search by law enforcement and search and rescue teams, no trace of Williams was found for years. In 2004, a missing persons report led to the discovery of Williams' empty boat and hunting equipment, sparking a new investigation into his disappearance.
Initially, investigators believed that Williams may have drowned in the nearby lake, but the lack of any evidence suggesting that he had fallen out of the boat or that his body had surfaced led to suspicion of foul play. Soon, investigators were looking at Williams' wife, Denise, and his best friend, Brian Winchester, as potential suspects.
Denise initially denied any involvement in her husband's disappearance, but as the investigation continued, suspicions began to mount against her. Brian Winchester, who was married to Denise's best friend, also became a person of interest in the case.
Through forensic analysis of the evidence, including DNA testing and gunshot residue analysis, investigators were able to determine that Williams had likely been murdered and his body disposed of in the lake.
As the investigation continued, it became clear that Denise and Brian had conspired to kill Mike Williams. Brian ultimately confessed to his involvement in the murder and agreed to lead authorities to Williams' body in exchange for a reduced sentence.
"Water Hazard" explores the complex forensic investigation that ultimately led to the convictions of Denise and Brian for the murder of Mike Williams. Through interviews with investigators and experts in forensic science, the episode highlights the important role that forensic evidence played in bringing the killers to justice.