Impact of Murder is a true crime series that delves deep into the lives and tragic deaths of individuals who have been murdered, and the ripple effect their untimely demise has on their friends, family, and community. The show is produced by Investigation Discovery and premiered in 2019, featuring interviews with those closest to the victim including law enforcement officials, witnesses, and family members.
The series opens with a brief introduction of the crime scene, including re-enactments, voice-overs and news clips. The narration is masterfully done by Colin Mace, whose voice easily captivates the viewer and ignites a sense of suspense. As the story unfolds, the show reveals the events leading up to the victim's murder, highlighting the key details of the crime itself.
One thing that sets the show apart from others in the true crime genre is its focus on the victim's life and legacy, rather than the perpetrator's trial. While the show provides background on the killer, it is not the central focus of the show. Rather, the series is dedicated to lifting the veil on the individual, painting a picture of who they were, and the impact they had on those around them.
Each episode is personalized and unique, focusing on how the victim's death reverberates throughout their community. This can range from the victim's spouse, children, and friends, to law enforcement officials, emergency responders, and witnesses. The emotional impact of each murder is explored, making it an engaging and gripping experience for viewers.
Ed White, a journalist and presenter, adds value to the show as he interviews those who knew the victim best. He poses insightful and empathetic questions that delve deep into the victim's character, likes, and dreams. These interviews provide insight into the victim's personality and remind the viewer that the individual was a real person with hopes, talents, and aspirations - as opposed to just being another statistic.
The show also features a criminal analysis, which is a detailed explanation of the perpetrator's actions and motivations. This analysis is based on the facts of the case, physical evidence found at the scene, and the victim's state at the time of the crime. Experts in forensics, criminal profiling, and psychology provide a unique insight into the mind of the killer, and explain what might have driven them to commit such a heinous crime. The analysis is a crucial part of the show and offers insights into how law enforcement solved the crime.
Bianca Hendrickse-Spendlove offers a brief summary of the show's main points, recapping the elements of the case for the viewer at the end of the episode. This summary refreshes viewers' memories and makes the information easier to digest. The editing team also does a fantastic job of not sensationalizing the murders or being too graphic, ensuring that the show maintains its integrity as a serious exploration of crime and its impact.
Overall, Impact of Murder is a must-watch for any true crime fan. It offers an intelligent and empathetic look at the lives of victims of brutal crimes and the lasting impact they have on their family and community. While the show recounts the terrible details of each murder, it does so in a respectful manner, keeping the focus on the victim rather than sensationalising the killer. The combination of interviews, criminal analysis, and re-enactments provide a comprehensive and engaging account of each case.
Impact of Murder is a series that ran for 2 seasons (16 episodes) between July 14, 2019 and on Investigation Discovery