The fifth series of the BBC One documentary "Expert Witness" launched this week, offering viewers an in-depth look at how forensic science contributes to solving complex criminal cases. Airing at 10:45 a.m., the three-week series presents detailed examinations of notable investigations, illustrating the role of forensic experts in assisting police and providing courtroom testimony.

The opening episode revisits the August 2022 murder of Ashley Dale in Liverpool. Dale was shot inside her home after gunmen forced entry and fired a Skorpion submachine gun, discharging ten rounds. One bullet struck Dale in the abdomen, causing her to collapse into the backyard where she later died at the hospital. Initial inquiries revealed that Dale was not the intended target; instead, the attack appeared linked to a gang rivalry, with her boyfriend likely the intended victim.

Investigators identified James Witham as a suspect. However, with no witnesses willing to cooperate, the police turned to technology and forensic expertise to advance the case. CCTV footage was scrutinized, and ballistics specialist Andre Horne was brought in to analyze bullet trajectories. His analysis disproved Witham’s claim that the shooting was accidental. The episode features contributions from Horne and Ashley’s mother, Julie Dale, highlighting the interplay between forensic science and the emotional impact on families affected by violent crime.

The documentary’s second story of the day delves into a cold case from 1986 involving the abduction and sexual assault of a child in Berkshire. After the investigation stalled for decades, the case was reopened 22 years later. Forensic scientist Andrew Parry undertook a thorough review, though much of the original evidence had been lost or degraded over time. Despite these challenges, one critical piece—a forensic tape from the original crime scene—remained intact, offering a pivotal lead in renewing the investigation.

Overall, "Expert Witness" underscores the vital importance of forensic advances in both current and cold cases. Through methodical analysis and expert testimony, forensic professionals continue to bring clarity to complex cases that might otherwise remain unsolved. The series aims to engage true crime enthusiasts while providing an informative perspective on the scientific techniques shaping modern criminal justice.