Ep 9. A Crimson End

In season 5 episode 9 of People Magazine Investigates, titled A Crimson End, the focus is on a case that shook a small town in Texas. The episode takes a deep dive into the murder of beloved high school football coach, Todd Dodge, who was shot dead in his home in January 1997.

The investigation into Todd Dodge's death was a mystery that remained unsolved for nearly two decades. It was a case that left the small, close-knit community of Southlake, Texas reeling, with people wondering who could have possibly wanted to harm someone so well-liked and respected.

In A Crimson End, viewers follow the investigation that finally leads to the arrest and conviction of the murderer. But, as with any good true crime story, things are not always as they seem. The investigation takes several twists and turns, revealing layers of deception and betrayal that were hidden beneath the surface of this idyllic, football-crazy town.

As the episode unfolds, viewers are introduced to key players in the investigation, including the lead detective, Ron Watts, who spent years piecing together the clues that would eventually lead to the killer. Watts describes the challenges he faced with the case and how he never gave up hope of finding the person responsible for Dodge's death.

We also hear from Dodge's son, Riley, who was just a young boy when his father was killed. Now all grown up, Riley reflects on the impact his father's death had on him and his family, and how finally getting answers to the questions he had for so long was both cathartic and life-changing.

Throughout the episode, viewers are given an inside look into the mind of the killer, as police interrogate him after his arrest. We hear his version of events and the reasoning behind his actions. The chilling details of what happened on the night of the murder are pieced together, and viewers are left to decide for themselves whether justice was truly served.

A Crimson End is a true crime story that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. It's a reminder that no matter how idyllic a community may seem, there are often secrets lurking beneath the surface. The episode is a tribute to the hard work of law enforcement officers who never gave up on this case and to the family and loved ones of Todd Dodge, who finally received some measure of closure after 20 years of unanswered questions.