Ep 16. Head Games

In the episode "Head Games" from season 4 of Forensic Files, viewers are taken on a journey through the investigation of a highly complex and unusual murder case. The episode showcases the scientific and investigative techniques that were used to solve the case and bring the perpetrator to justice.

The story begins with a concerned father contacting the police after his daughter, 25-year-old Patty Ann Fabian, fails to show up for work. The investigation quickly takes a dark turn when her body is discovered with a gunshot wound to the head. The forensic evidence reveals that the murder weapon was a .22 caliber handgun, and that Patty had been shot twice in the head. The bullet that caused her death was found lodged in the back of her skull, indicating that she had been shot from behind.

As the investigation progresses, detectives learn that Patty was in the process of divorcing her husband, James Fabian, who had been physically abusive towards her. James becomes the prime suspect, but his alibi checks out, and there is no physical evidence linking him to the crime. However, investigators discover that James had been in contact with a man named John Stobbs, who was known to have a criminal record.

Stobbs denies any involvement in Patty's murder, but when his alibi falls apart, he confesses to the crime. However, his confession raises more questions than answers. Stobbs claims that James Fabian hired him to kill Patty, but James denies any involvement. The forensic evidence does not support Stobbs' version of events, and investigators must sift through the evidence to uncover the truth.

What follows is a fascinating journey through the forensic evidence, as investigators use ballistics, blood spatter analysis, and DNA testing to piece together the sequence of events that led to Patty's murder. They discover that Stobbs' version of events was a fabrication, and that he had actually acted alone in the crime. However, his motive remains a mystery.

Ultimately, it is the innovative use of forensic science that solves the case, as investigators are able to link Stobbs to the murder weapon, a .22 caliber handgun, using a technique called neutron activation analysis. This breakthrough proves critical in securing a conviction, as Stobbs is found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison without parole.

Overall, "Head Games" is a compelling and intricate murder case that showcases the power of forensic science in solving even the most complex crimes. The episode leaves viewers with a sense of awe at the ingenuity of forensic techniques and the intelligence of the investigators who use them.