48 Hours: NCIS – Episode 6: "Last Breath"

Introduction

In the gripping sixth episode of the premiere season of "48 Hours: NCIS," hosted by CBS News correspondent Natalie Morales, the harrowing case of Erin Corwin unfolds. Erin, a 19-year-old Marine wife, mysteriously disappeared in California’s Joshua Tree National Park. Nearly two months later, her body was discovered in an abandoned mine, leading to suspicions that fell on a fellow Marine, Christopher Lee. This episode delves deep into the complexities of the case, exploring themes of infidelity, betrayal, and the quest for justice.

The Disappearance and Discovery of Erin Corwin

[Natalie Morales, 00:01]: "Just over two years since Erin left the Marine base and never came back, her family finally had the answer of what happened to her and who did it. Christopher Lee killed her."

Erin Corwin’s disappearance sent shockwaves through the community. Two months after she vanished, her body was found in a desolate mine, raising immediate suspicions about her fellow Marine, Christopher Lee. The discovery set the stage for a tumultuous investigation and subsequent trial.

The Trial of Christopher Lee

Prosecutor Sean Daugherty played a pivotal role in building the case against Chris Lee. The courtroom atmosphere was tense, especially during Lee’s testimony.

[Clifton Randolph Jr., 01:23]: "It never goes away, especially when you had such a big role in it."

Lee alleged that Erin had abused his daughter, a claim that shocked the court and appeared to be a desperate attempt to justify his actions.

[Beth Ford Roth, 00:39]: "It kind of came out of left field. It kind of seemed like it was this last attempt to paint Aaron in a horrible light, to make some type of excuse for his behavior."

As the trial progressed, it became evident that Lee’s allegations lacked substantial evidence. The defense strategy focused on portraying the killing as voluntary manslaughter rather than first-degree murder.

[Sean Daugherty, 07:15]: "That's what the defense attorney in his closing arguments said, that this was not premeditated. Very last minute."

The prosecution countered by emphasizing the premeditated nature of the crime, presenting evidence that Lee had ample time to reconsider his actions during the murder.

NCIS Involvement and Perspectives

NCIS analyst Ashley de Chelfin remained engaged with the case through reporter Beth Ford Roth’s blog and national news coverage, despite NCIS’s official involvement having concluded.

[Clifton Randolph Jr., 05:06]: "When Shawn first told me, I was just like, you know, there's just no way, absolutely no way Erin would do anything like that."

Special Agent Clifton Randolph Jr. reflected on the lasting impact the case had on him and his colleagues, highlighting the emotional toll of such intense investigations.

Key Courtroom Moments

One of the most harrowing moments of the trial was Lee’s demonstration of the murder method using a dummy and a garrote, intended to illustrate the brutality of his actions.

[Beth Ford Roth, 16:11]: "I was absolutely shocked because he had no emotion about it. It was kind of like, oh, okay, yeah, I'll do that."

The demonstration underscored the deliberate and calculated nature of the murder, leaving a profound impact on those present.

[Clifton Randolph Jr., 20:31]: "It was dead silent. And I got the point across. I stopped. They get it."

The Verdict and Aftermath

After intense deliberations, the jury swiftly returned a verdict, convicting Christopher Brandon Lee of first-degree murder and sentencing him to life without the possibility of parole.

[Beth Ford Roth, 22:40]: "Christopher Brandon Lee was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to life without the possibility of parole."

Prosecutor Sean Daugherty expressed a sense of justice served, while NCIS agents reflected on the enduring significance of the case.

[Clifton Randolph Jr., 23:03]: "The special circumstance allegation in the case was lying in wait. And that is, he essentially waited and watched for an opportunity to act, to kill with the intent to kill."

Despite Lee’s attempts to appeal the decision, claiming jury misinstruction, the appellate court upheld the original judgment, cementing his conviction.

Reflections and Final Thoughts

The episode concludes with poignant reflections from Erin’s mother, Lor, and other individuals affected by her tragic death. Lor’s visit to the mine shaft where Erin was last seen alive serves as a powerful testament to the enduring pain and quest for closure.

[Sean Daugherty, 35:09]: "Erin's not here. Erin's in heaven."

Beth Ford Roth emphasizes the personal toll the case took on everyone involved, highlighting the universal vulnerability to such tragedies.

[Beth Ford Roth, 30:53]: "There's this feeling of, oh my gosh, it all could have stopped at age 19 and it could have been me, it could have been my older sister. It could have been any 19 year old girl who fell in love with the wrong guy."

Prosecutor Daugherty underscores the importance of recognizing Erin’s vulnerability, challenging sentiments that blame her for the affair that led to her untimely death.

[Clifton Randolph Jr., 31:18]: "I've heard the sentiment that Erin was at fault for having an affair. I just always thought it was important to keep in mind her age and her lack of experience."

Conclusion

"Last Breath" masterfully intertwines true crime journalism with the intense narrative flair of the NCIS franchise, offering listeners a comprehensive and emotionally charged exploration of Erin Corwin’s tragic story. Through meticulous reporting, evocative courtroom drama, and heartfelt personal reflections, this episode stands as a poignant reminder of the profound impacts of loss, justice, and the unyielding pursuit of truth.

Notable Quotes:

• Natalie Morales [00:01]: "For the first time, they finally learned his story. Why? According to Aaron's killer, she allegedly abused his daughter."

• Beth Ford Roth [00:39]: "It kind of came out of left field. It kind of seemed like it was this last attempt to paint Aaron in a horrible light."

• Clifton Randolph Jr. [05:06]: "When Shawn first told me, I was just like, you know, there's just no way, absolutely no way Erin would do anything like that."

• Father Sean Daugherty [15:00]: "I knew about the garrote before the trial. It was still around her neck."

• Lor Aaron [33:27]: "Erin Renee, our sweet, precious daughter... To know that this was where her life was taken from her."

Timestamp Highlights:

• 00:01: Introduction to Erin Corwin’s disappearance and discovery.

• 02:00: Skipped – Advertisement segment.

• 03:21: Resumption of content after ads.

• 16:11: Chris Lee’s garrote demonstration in court.

• 22:40: Verdict announcement.

• 33:27: Lor Aaron’s memorial visit to the mine shaft.

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the emotional and investigative depth of "48 Hours: NCIS" Episode "Last Breath," providing readers with a vivid understanding of the case, the trial dynamics, and its lasting impact on those involved.