Ep 3. A Bad Run-In / Inferno

In the third episode of the eighteenth season of The First 48, the show follows two separate homicide cases that unfold in two different cities.

The first case takes place in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where homicide detectives are investigating a shooting that occurred in a convenience store parking lot. The victim, a 22-year-old man, was shot multiple times and died on the scene. The detectives are quick to gather surveillance footage from the area, which shows the suspect walking up to the victim's car and firing shots at him before fleeing the scene. With the help of witnesses who were in the area at the time of the shooting, the detectives are able to compile a description of the suspect and his vehicle. However, as the investigation unfolds, they begin to realize that the case may not be as straightforward as it seems.

Meanwhile, in Birmingham, Alabama, a fire that broke out in an apartment complex claims the life of a 28-year-old man. As firefighters put out the blaze, investigators discover the victim's body inside the charred remains of his apartment. The cause of the fire is still unknown, leaving Birmingham homicide detectives with a difficult task of trying to piece together what happened. They begin by canvassing the apartment complex, hoping to gather information from potential witnesses. As they talk to people who knew the victim, they learn that he recently had some troubles in his personal life, and they begin to suspect that his death may not have been an accident.

As both cases progress, the detectives face a number of challenges that test their skills and intuition. They race against the clock to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and track down suspects in the hopes of bringing justice to the victims and their families. With the clock ticking, the detectives must stay focused and determined, knowing that with each passing hour, the chances of solving the case become slimmer.

The episode sheds light on the difficulties that homicide detectives often encounter in their line of work, from navigating complex crime scenes to trying to gain the trust of witnesses who may be hesitant to come forward. It showcases the dedication and persistence that these detectives bring to their jobs, as they work tirelessly to solve cases and bring peace to the families of victims.

Overall, "A Bad Run-In / Inferno" is a gripping episode that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as they follow two separate homicide investigations. It is a testament to the skill and dedication of homicide detectives, and a reminder of the difficult and often heartbreaking work that they do.