Forensic Files

The Trial of Alex Murdaugh | Full Episode

48 Hours

  • Mar 7, 2023
  • 41:26
  • Full Episode

"48 Hours" explores the double life of a once prominent lawyer and his stunning fall from grace. Murdaugh is now an admitted drug addict, thief and convicted murderer. "48 Hours" contributor Nikki Battiste reports. Watch more full episodes of "48 Hours" on Pluto TV.

CASE UPDATE: On May 13, 2026, the South Carolina Supreme Court overturned Alex Murdaugh’s double murder convictions and granted him a new trial. The court held that Murdaugh was denied the right to a fair trial, including an impartial jury, due to the actions of County Clerk of Court Rebecca Hill.

Crime. Social justice. Impact. "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

Alec Murdoch is found guilty of murdering his wife and son to conceal financial crimes amid a high-profile trial.

Key points

  • The Trial of the Century. Alec Murdoch faces trial for the double homicide of his wife and son, drawing global media attention.
  • The Murdoch Family's Dark Secrets. Alec Murdoch's alleged financial crimes and family tragedies unfold, revealing a web of deceit.
  • The Fatal Boat Crash. The tragic boat crash that killed Mallory Beach raises questions about Paul Murdoch's actions.
  • Alec's Descent into Chaos. After the murders, Alec Murdoch's life spirals as he faces addiction and legal troubles.
  • The Mysterious Death of Gloria Satterfield. The suspicious death of the Murdoch family housekeeper leads to allegations of fraud.
  • Alec Murdaugh's Alibi Shattered. Testimony reveals Alec was at the kennels minutes before the murders, contradicting his claims.

Tension

85/ 100High tension

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