Speed Trap (Quincy, M.E.)
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Episode Quote
“The car didn’t lie, and neither will the autopsy.”
~ Quince
Episode Overview
Speed Trap (Season 3, Episode 2) originally aired on NBC on October 12, 1978. Quincy is called to investigate the fatal crash of Grand Prix driver Kevin Bannon. What seems like a tragic accident quickly reveals signs of foul play—beginning a fast‑paced inquiry that combines forensic science with moral urgency. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Application of The QME Episode Laws
Speed Trap reflects all four **QME Episode Laws**:
✅ Law 1: Uncover truth & bring justice Quincy’s autopsy uncovers unexpected amphetamines in Bannon’s system and damage inconsistent with a solo crash—transforming the case into a potential homicide investigation and ensuring the deceased driver's legacy is defended.
✅ Law 2: Highlight social/ethical issues The episode delves into the high‑pressure world of professional racing, examining how competition, doping culture, and industry pressures can lead to fatal outcomes—questioning where accountability lies between individual athletes and teams.
✅ Law 3: Tackle complex, controversial topics with sensitivity Performance‑enhancing drug use in sports was a sensitive subject in the late 1970s. The show addresses it thoughtfully, avoiding sensationalism while exploring its impact on safety, health, and ethics.
✅ Law 4: Scientific accuracy Quincy uses precise forensic techniques—blood toxicology, crash pattern analysis, and mechanical evidence review—to distinguish between accident and intentional harm, showcasing realistic medical‑legal investigation methods.
Episode Synopsis
Kevin Bannon crashes during a practice run and dies instantly. Quincy and Sam arrive at the track, noting that the car’s damage patterns suggest something more than a simple spin‑out. At the morgue, Quincy’s toxicology report reveals amphetamines—prompting him to question whether Bannon was impaired or deliberately drugged.
Further examination finds mechanical sabotage: a loosened tire stud causing sudden tire failure. Quincy interviews team members, including Bannon’s car owner (Simon Oakland), mechanics, and rival racers. Motives emerge—jealousy, team politics, possible sabotage to remove a star driver.
Using forensic reconstruction and lab results, Quincy matches tool marks on the stud with a suspect’s equipment. He confronts the culprit, who confesses under evidence pressure. The episode closes with Quincy reminding the racing community that science and integrity can shine a light through even the fastest of deceptions.
Plot Summary
A supposed tragic crash reveals systemic sabotage and doping in elite motorsport. Quincy’s methodical autopsy work and dedication to scientific truth expose a calculated murder and protect the integrity of competitive racing.
Main Cast
- Jack Klugman as Dr. R. Quincy
- Robert Ito as Sam Fujiyama
- Garry Walberg as Lt. Monahan
- Val Bisoglio as Danny Tovo
- John S. Ragin as Dr. Asten
Guest Cast
- Simon Oakland as team principal
- [List additional guest cast if available]
Case File Summary
Victim: Kevin Bannon, Grand Prix driver Case #: Motorsport Fatality – 1978 Key Findings: Amphetamine presence; mechanical sabotage detected Outcome: Saboteur apprehended; safety protocols reinforced by Quincy’s team
Forensic Science Insight
- Toxicology accurately identifies amphetamine levels, framing cause of death.
- Mechanical forensics link tool‑mark evidence to sabotage.
- Crash reconstruction demonstrates realistic application of physics in forensics.
Themes & Tropes
- **Sporting Integrity vs. Doping Culture** – Athlete safety compromised by performance pressures.
- **Sabotage under Pressure** – High-stakes competition breeds desperation and crime.
- **Science Triumphs over Deceit** – Forensic detail dismantles the villain’s scheme.
Reception & Ratings
Described on Rotten Tomatoes as a taut medical‑thriller set in the world of racing, the episode garnered praise for blending forensic detail with industry critique. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} IMDb user rating: ~7.1/10. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Trivia
- Guest star Simon Oakland (noted character actor) adds authentic gravitas to the racing world portrayal.
- Quincy's detailed crash‑scene lab work influenced future forensic depictions in motorsport investigations.
See Also
- Quincy, M.E.
- List of Quincy, M.E. episodes
- Performance‑enhancing drugs in sports
- Motorsport safety protocols
External Links
- [IMDb page for “Speed Trap”](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0681836/)
- [Rotten Tomatoes Season 4 summary](https://www.rottentomatoes.com)
- [The Quincy Examiner fan archive overview](https://www.quincyexaminer.com)