Ep 29. Walking Terror

Forensic Files season 9 episode 29 is titled "Walking Terror" and centers around the murder of 23-year-old college student, Jarrod Davidson. Jarrod was a kind-hearted individual who loved spending time with his family and girlfriend. He was an avid outdoorsman and took great care of his physical health. So, when he uncharacteristically failed to show up for a family gathering on the morning of October 31, 1999, his loved ones knew something was wrong.

The episode begins with a search party of family and friends combing the woods near Jarrod's home in Granville County, North Carolina. They soon discovered his abandoned truck, and a trail of blood leading away from the vehicle. This led them to a small creek, where they found Jarrod's lifeless body submerged in the water.

The autopsy revealed that Jarrod had been hit in the head with a blunt object, likely a large rock found nearby. He had also suffered several stab wounds to the back and neck, indicating that he had been attacked from behind. The medical examiner concluded that Jarrod's death was a homicide.

Investigators worked diligently to identify a suspect but were met with few leads. Meanwhile, the small community of Granville County was left terrified, as a killer was on the loose. A local woman confessed to the crime, only to recant her confession a few days later. Ultimately, her DNA did not match the evidence found at the crime scene.

The investigation continued for several months, during which time the community's fear grew. People reported hearing noises outside their homes in the middle of the night and seeing strange individuals lurking around the area. The local sheriff's department worked tirelessly to calm their fears and solve the case.

The break in the case came from an unlikely source - a man who had been treated at a local hospital for a severe laceration on his hand. The injury, while not directly related to the murder, caught the attention of investigators, who requested a DNA sample from the man. The DNA proved to be a match to the evidence found at the crime scene, and the man was arrested.

The suspect was tried and convicted of the murder of Jarrod Davidson, and is currently serving a life sentence. The episode concludes with interviews with Jarrod's loved ones, who reflect on his life and the tragedy that cut it short.

"Walking Terror" is a gripping and emotional episode that highlights the impact of a senseless act of violence on a small community. It also serves as a reminder of the tireless work of forensic investigators and law enforcement officials who work to bring justice to the families of victims.