Ep 2. In the Shadow of Jack

"In the Shadow of Jack" is the second episode of Murder Maps season 1, a historical true crime series that delves into some of the world’s most shocking and brutal murders. This episode is set in London during the late 1800s, a time when the notorious Jack the Ripper was on the loose, but also the era of other notable murderers who have since been forgotten by history.

Through detailed reenactments and expert interviews, this episode explores a series of murders committed in the East End of London by the so-called Thames Torso Killer. Named for his gruesome habit of dismembering his victims and dumping their remains into the river Thames, this killer terrorized London for several years, and his true identity has never been discovered.

The show begins with a sweeping aerial shot of London, accompanied by a dramatic voiceover that sets the scene for the murders to come. Viewers are transported back in time to the smoggy streets of London during the Victorian era, where life was bleak and hard for many of its inhabitants.

We then meet our narrator and guide for the episode, historian and broadcaster Nicholas Day. Day takes us on a journey through the maze of streets and alleyways of the East End, explaining the social and economic factors that contributed to the rise of crime in the area.

We hear from a range of experts throughout the episode, including criminologists, historians, and forensic scientists, who offer their insights into the methods and motives of the Thames Torso Killer. They explain how the lack of forensic technology during the era and the vast number of unidentifiable remains made it almost impossible for investigators to solve the case.

One of the most chilling aspects of the episode is the way in which the Thames Torso Killer targeted women who were already marginalized and vulnerable. Much like Jack the Ripper, he preyed on prostitutes who worked the streets of Whitechapel, knowing that they were less likely to be missed or reported missing.

Through a series of dramatic reenactments, we see the brutal and methodical way in which the killer dismembers his victims, leaving behind only the torso and limbs. The gruesome details are not spared, but the show never feels gratuitous or exploitative. Instead, it conveys the horror and tragedy of the crimes in a respectful and thoughtful way.

As the episode progresses, we learn about the various suspects who were investigated by the police, including a mysterious man named George Chapman who had a history of domestic violence. We also hear about the challenges faced by detectives and coroners who had to navigate the complex legal and social landscape of Victorian England.

By the end of the episode, viewers are left with a sense of both fascination and horror at the crimes committed by the Thames Torso Killer. Unlike Jack the Ripper, this killer's identity remains a mystery to this day, leaving us to wonder if he was ever caught, or if he simply faded into obscurity like so many other forgotten murderers of the past.

Overall, "In the Shadow of Jack" is a compelling and informative episode of Murder Maps that will appeal to anyone with an interest in true crime, history, or the darker aspects of human nature."