Ep 3. The Towpath Murders

In season 3 episode 3 of Murder Maps, titled "The Towpath Murders," viewers are taken back to the early 20th century when a series of gruesome murders terrorized the London canals. Set against the backdrop of World War I, the episode explores the efforts of the police to find and apprehend the perpetrator of these heinous crimes.

The episode introduces us to a man named George Smith, who lived on a houseboat on the canals with his wife. Smith was a well-respected boatman who made a living by transporting goods along the waterways. However, he was also known for his heavy drinking and womanizing. One evening in 1914, George and his wife went out for a night of drinking with some friends. Later that night, George returned to the boat alone, claiming that he had left his wife with their friends.

The next day, a group of boatmen discovered the body of a middle-aged woman floating in the canal. She had been bludgeoned to death and thrown into the water. It was soon discovered that the victim was not George's wife, but a woman named Sarah Benford who had been seen with George on the night of the murder.

The police began their investigation, focusing on George Smith as the prime suspect. He denied any involvement in the murder and claimed that he had left Sarah alive and well when he returned to his boat. However, the evidence against him quickly mounted. Witnesses reported seeing him arguing with Sarah on the night of the murder, and bloodstains were found on his boat.

Despite this, George was acquitted at trial due to a lack of concrete evidence. However, the police remained suspicious and continued to monitor his movements. Their suspicions were proven to be well-founded when, a few years later, two more bodies were found in the canals under similar circumstances.

Using a combination of witness statements, forensic evidence, and good old-fashioned detective work, the police were finally able to build a case against George Smith. He was found guilty of all three murders and sentenced to death. The episode ends with a reflection on the impact that these brutal crimes had on the London community and the lasting legacy of George Smith's reign of terror.

Overall, "The Towpath Murders" is a gripping and atmospheric episode that transports viewers back in time to a dark period in London's history. The investigation is fraught with tension and suspense, and viewers will find themselves on the edge of their seats as the police work to track down the killer. The episode also provides interesting insights into the social and cultural context of the time, including the impact of the war and the changing attitudes towards women. Fans of true crime and history will not want to miss this compelling episode of Murder Maps.