Ep 29. Smoke In Your Eyes

In season 8 episode 29 of Forensic Files titled "Smoke In Your Eyes," viewers are taken on a journey through a tragic case that happened in Laramie, Wyoming in 1985. The episode explores the murder of an American Airlines flight attendant named Angela and chronicles the investigation that led to the capture of her killer.

The episode begins with an introduction to Angela - a vivacious and well-liked woman who was known for her infectious smile and love for life. On the night of her murder, Angela was working a flight from Chicago to San Francisco when tragedy struck. A fire started in the rear lavatory of the plane, quickly spreading throughout the cabin and causing it to crash in a remote area of Wyoming.

When investigators arrived at the crash site, they found Angela's body among the wreckage. Her cause of death was initially ruled as burns and smoke inhalation, but upon further inspection, authorities noticed something suspicious. There were no burns on Angela's face, indicating that she may have been dead before the fire started.

The investigation into Angela's murder quickly heated up as detectives began to question everyone who had been on the flight. They soon zeroed in on a passenger named John, who was traveling under an assumed name and had a history of arson. When authorities searched John's apartment, they found evidence linking him to the crime and took him into custody.

With John in custody, investigators began to piece together the events leading up to Angela's murder. They learned that John had taken out a $750,000 life insurance policy on his wife, who he had been planning to divorce. Angela had been killed so that John could collect on the policy and start a new life with his mistress.

Forensic evidence played a crucial role in securing John's conviction. A piece of electrical wire found at the scene matched wire from John's apartment, and cigarette butts recovered from the wreckage had DNA that matched John's. Additionally, dental records proved that Angela had been strangled before the fire was set.

"Smoke In Your Eyes" serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact that a single act of violence can have on countless lives. Angela's death was tragic and unnecessary, and the episode drives home the importance of upholding justice and bringing closure to victims' families.

Overall, "Smoke In Your Eyes" is a compelling and emotional episode that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Through expert storytelling and stunning visuals, the episode provides a glimpse into the complexities of forensic investigations and the tireless work of law enforcement to bring killers to justice.