The BBC's true crime series Murder 24/7 has returned with a new season, and the opening episode has left both detectives and viewers stunned by the horrific details of a murder case.
Following West Mercia Police, the show gives an inside look at a murder investigation from the moment a 999 call is made. The synopsis teases: "In the pursuit of justice, every second counts. From the 999 call to conviction, via critical forensics and identifying suspects, follow the cases as they unfold - in real time."
A Chilling Discovery
In tonight's episode (August 4), the investigation centers on 54-year-old Jamie Gawler, found dead in an armchair with a towel over his face. Officers were stunned by the scene, with one remarking, "That's very strange if that's how he was found."
Forensics later examined blood splatters and evidence, and initial post-mortem results revealed the extent of Jamie's injuries: lacerations to his chest and nearly every rib broken. DCI Gareth Lougher reacted, "That is just horrific." DS Emma Atherton added, "I wasn't expecting that really."
Suspect Described as 'Sadistic'
DCI Lougher described the suspect as "really dangerous," saying, "I was expecting it to be brutal but I don't think I was expecting it to be quite as violent as you described." DS Mat Crisp admitted, "I haven't done one like that for a while."
Later, detectives reviewed the evidence and again called the suspect "sadistic and dangerous." Viewers were equally shocked, with one writing on X: "'Evidence of torture' J***s, poor bloke."
How to Watch
The second part of this case airs tomorrow at 9pm on BBC One. All episodes are available to stream on BBC iPlayer. Fans have compared the series favorably to 24 Hours in Police Custody, with one viewer saying, "Watching #Murder247 on @BBC I love this. It's just as good as #24HoursInPoliceCustody on @Channel4."
