Forensic Files

The Lost Boy | Full Episode

48 Hours

  • May 28, 2024
  • 43:00
  • Full Episode

More than three decades after 6-year-old Etan Patz went missing, police found a surprising suspect. "48 Hours" correspondent Richard Schlesinger goes inside the investigation. Is the haunting case finally over? Watch more full episodes of "48 Hours" on Pluto TV.

CASE UPDATE: On July 21, 2025, a federal appeals court ruled that Pedro Hernandez must have a new trial or be released. On Nov. 25, 2025, the Manhattan District Attorney announced he intends to retry Hernandez.

True crime. Real justice. "48 Hours" investigates the most intriguing crime and justice cases that touch on all areas of the human experience including greed and passion. "48 Hours," which premiered in 1988, has developed a rich history of original reporting and impact journalism that has helped exonerate wrongly convicted people, caused cold cases to be reopened and solved, and along the way changed lives.

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Brief Summary

The episode details Aon Pates' disappearance, the investigation, and Pedro Hernandez's confession leading to his conviction for murder.

Key points

  • The Lost Boy. After more than 30 years, a new team of investigators seeks to solve Aton Pates' case.
  • A Mother's Regret. Julie's decision to let Aton walk to the bus stop alone haunts her.
  • Confession of a Suspect. Pedro Hernandez confesses to choking Aton Pates, changing the course of the investigation.
  • Pedro Hernandez Arrested. Pedro Hernandez was arrested after confessing to the disappearance of Aon Pates 33 years ago.
  • Trial and Confession Controversy. The trial raised questions about Hernandez's mental health and the validity of his confession.
  • Verdict Reached. After a long deliberation, Pedro Hernandez was convicted of killing Aon Pates 37 years after his disappearance.

Tension

80/ 100High tension

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