Dead Stop (Quincy, M.E.)
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Episode Quote
'"Sometimes stopping at the obvious answer isn’t enough." ~ Dr. Quincy in Dead Stop
Episode Overview
Dead Stop is the third episode of the seventh season of Quincy, M.E., originally aired on NBC on October 20, 1982. The episode centers around a suspicious death ruled a homicide, prompting Dr. Quincy to investigate inconsistencies that suggest a deeper story involving personal betrayal and self-defense.
Table of Contents
Application of The QME Episode Laws
Dead Stop reflects the core principles of **The QME Episode Laws**:
✅ **Law 1: Seek the truth and bring justice to the victim.** Quincy digs beyond the surface of the shooting death to reveal the complexities behind the victim’s demise.
✅ **Law 2: Explore social and ethical issues, especially justice against powerful systems.** The case touches on domestic violence and the challenges victims face in the justice system.
✅ **Law 3: Approach complex or controversial topics sensitively and respectfully.** The episode handles delicate issues such as self-defense and domestic conflict with care.
✅ **Law 4: Strive for scientific accuracy in medical and forensic investigations.** Detailed forensic pathology and ballistics analyses help clarify the sequence of events.
Episode Synopsis
Mark Reynolds is found dead from a gunshot wound. While initial evidence suggests homicide, Dr. Quincy’s forensic examination reveals signs of a struggle and possible self-defense. As Quincy investigates, he uncovers strained relationships, concealed motives, and conflicting testimonies. The forensic evidence combined with personal interviews leads Quincy to uncover the true circumstances surrounding Reynolds’ death.
Plot Summary
The police investigate the shooting death of Mark Reynolds, presumed a homicide. Dr. Quincy’s autopsy and scene analysis reveal inconsistencies, including defensive wounds on the victim and signs of a close-range gunshot. Quincy interviews Reynolds’ wife Susan Mitchell and others close to the victim, exposing underlying domestic tensions. Evidence points to a possible self-defense scenario rather than a premeditated murder. Quincy’s persistence helps reveal the truth and ensure the correct legal outcome.
A Ghost of a Chance • Dead Stop • Shattered Glass Season 7 Overview: Full Episode List
Main Cast
- Jack Klugman as Dr. R. Quincy
- Robert Ito as Sam Fujiyama
- John S. Ragin as Dr. Robert Asten
- Garrett Morris as Norman Ellis
Guest Cast
- Karen Carlson as Susan Mitchell
- Additional guest stars as credited
Case File Summary
Victim: Mark Reynolds Case #: LACC 82.10.124
Initially ruled a homicide, Dr. Quincy’s investigation revealed evidence supporting self-defense in the shooting death.
Forensic Science Insight
- Autopsy findings of gunshot wound trajectory
- Analysis of defensive wounds and struggle marks
- Ballistics and gunpowder residue testing
- Scene reconstruction to determine shooting distance and angle
Themes & Tropes
- The complexity of domestic violence cases
- The challenge of distinguishing between homicide and self-defense
- The importance of thorough forensic analysis in criminal justice
Reception & Ratings
Praised for its sensitive treatment of difficult subjects and strong forensic details, Dead Stop was well received by audiences and critics alike.
Trivia
- Karen Carlson’s guest role brought a nuanced portrayal of a domestic violence survivor.
- The episode highlighted forensic ballistics as a pivotal investigative tool.
Cultural Impact
The episode contributed to raising awareness of domestic violence and showcased forensic science’s role in clarifying complex legal situations.
See Also
- Quincy, M.E.
- List of Quincy, M.E. episodes
- Forensic pathology
- Domestic violence awareness
- NBC
- 1982 in television
External Links
- [Official Quincy Examiner website](https://www.quincyexaminer.com)
- [IMDb page for Dead Stop](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0074042/episodes?season=7 "IMDb Quincy Season 7")
- [Quincy, M.E. episode guide on TV.com](https://www.tv.com/shows/quincy-me/)
- [Reddit Quincy fan community](https://www.reddit.com/r/QuincyME/)