Ep 5. The Colorado Hammer Killer

The Colorado Hammer Killer was one of the most notorious serial killers in the history of Colorado. For years, the authorities chased the elusive murderer without any luck. But finally, after more than three decades, they caught the man behind the violent spree. In this episode of People Magazine Investigates, the team takes a closer look at the case of The Colorado Hammer Killer and reveals the story behind the hunt for the killer and how they eventually brought him to justice.

The story begins in 1979 when a series of brutal murders took place in the Denver area. All the victims were young women who were attacked with a hammer while they were home alone. The killer, who became known as the Colorado Hammer Killer, seemed to have a specific type of victimology, choosing women who worked as clerks, cashiers, and receptionists. At the time, the authorities had no leads and struggled to find any significant evidence that could help them identify the killer.

Despite their best efforts, the murders continued. In 1984, another victim, Patricia Louise Smith, was found dead in her apartment in Lakewood. The case gained national attention, and the pressure on the authorities to catch the killer increased. But despite their best efforts, the investigation went cold, and the case remained unsolved for several years.

It was not until 1997 that the case was reopened, and a break in the investigation finally came when DNA evidence linked the murders to a man named Alexander Christopher Ewing. Ewing had a history of violent crimes and was in prison serving time for a separate attack at the time DNA linked him to the Colorado Hammer Killer case.

The episode takes us through the investigation and trial that led to Ewing's conviction. The team speaks with investigators, forensic experts, and lawyers who worked on the case to give viewers an inside look at how they solved the case after 20 years. It also explores the impact that the murders had on the families of the victims and how they coped with the tragedy.

Overall, People Magazine Investigates - The Colorado Hammer Killer is an intriguing and emotional episode that takes viewers through a harrowing story of one of the most violent serial killers in Colorado history. In addition, it highlights the importance of forensic evidence in solving cold cases and the tireless work done by law enforcement and forensic experts to bring justice to those who have been victimized by criminals.