Ep 1. The Trailside Killer

In season 5, episode 1 of Very Scary People, viewers are taken deep into the twisted mind of one of the most notorious serial killers in American history - the Trailside Killer.

Based on true events, this episode explores the shocking crimes of David Carpenter, who prowled the forests and trails near San Francisco between 1979 and 1981, targeting young women who were out for a jog or hike. Carpenter's reign of terror left at least 10 victims dead and several more injured, all of whom were brutally attacked and left to die in the wilderness.

Through interviews with law enforcement officials, journalists, and survivor accounts, viewers gain an inside look into the intense manhunt that ensued as law enforcement officials tracked down Carpenter and brought him to justice.

The episode delves into Carpenter's past, exploring the factors that may have contributed to his violent and predatory behavior. It showcases his early encounters with the law, his stint in the military, and his volatile relationship with his family and ex-wife.

Viewers will be taken on a roller coaster ride as they witness Carpenter's daring escapes from police custody, his chilling threats against the victims who survived his attacks, and the meticulous way in which he planned and executed his crimes.

The Trailside Killer is not for the faint of heart, as it contains graphic reenactments of the crimes and interviews with survivors who recount the terror they experienced at the hands of this ruthless killer. But it also sheds a light on the remarkable resilience of the human spirit, as the survivors learn to cope with their trauma and find a way to live their lives in the aftermath of such unspeakable horror.

Overall, this episode of Very Scary People offers a sobering reminder of the evil that can lurk within the human psyche, and the heroic efforts of law enforcement officials who risk their lives to bring killers like David Carpenter to justice. Whether you're a true crime fanatic or just looking for a chilling and thought-provoking show, The Trailside Killer is a must-watch.