Plot Synopsis

Hosted by Andrea Canning, DATELINE: THE SMOKING GUN is a hunt for clues as detectives relentlessly pursue the critical piece of evidence that ultimately cracks the case. Each investigation is packed with twists -- false leads, wrong suspects, dead ends -- until police finally uncover the smoking gun and arrive at justice. Stories investigated this season include a disappearance involving a young film director, two prosecutors killed in a small Texas town and a serial killer who must be stopped before the next victim is murdered. The first four episodes are:

"In Cold Blood" (Thursday, October 3, 2024 from 8-10pm ET/PT): When Kim Dorsey was found murdered in her bedroom, the chaotic crime scene left more questions than answers. A single out-of-place item would be the key to discovering the killer's identity if investigators could find the evidence.

"Vendetta" (Thursday, October 10, 2024 from 8-10pm ET/PT): Three people were shot dead in a small Texas town, including two respected prosecutors. A clue that would connect the dots remained a mystery until an eagle-eyed investigator made a stunning discovery.

"The Unusual Suspect" (Thursday, October 17, 2024 from 8-9pm ET/PT): A cold-blooded serial killer was lurking in the woods, stalking his next victim. As Det. Bernie Nelson investigated, puzzling evidence led him to more questions until one clue helped crack the case wide open.

"Deadly House of Cards" (Thursday, October 24, 2024 from 8-10pm ET/PT): Det. Bill Clark was investigating a disappearance when a trail of clues led him to a young film director. Clark worried that the mystery was a hoax staged by a master storyteller. Turns out the script was much darker.