TV Review:
Gaia: A Death On Dancing Ledge.
The programme is available on the BBC iPlayer.
The documentary, presented by Zara McDermott, explores the mysterious disappearance of nineteen-year-old Gaia Pope-Sutherland.Many of the documentaries I recommend delve into the mechanics of investigating serious crime, such as police procedure and forensics. This one is a little different. As writers of crime fiction, we often portray ultimately successful police investigations. Also, we can sometimes skirt over the victims’ stories to focus on the detectives. This series redresses that balance, somewhat.
In a nutshell, Gaia went missing from Swanage, Dorset in November 2017. She was missing for eleven days, before being found dead. The initial police investigation was described as ‘amateurish’ in that the officers handling the initial report incorrectly categorised her as low-risk, rather than high-risk, perhaps leading to her unnecessary death. During the search, three individuals were arrested on suspicion of murder, although they were subsequently released without charge and Gaia’s death ruled non-suspicious.
That in itself is an interesting story. But the backstory leading up to these tragic events is a convoluted, dark and heart-breaking tale. Gaia’s family and friends are at the heart of this story and McDermott is an engaging and sensitive presenter. She delves deep into the circumstances surrounding Gaia’s disappearance and death, and goes to some very dark places, unearthing an online culture of abuse and toxic masculinity.
I recommend this documentary as a reminder that the police don’t always get it right, and that behind even a seemingly accidental death, there is often a complex and upsetting story.
Did you see the programme? What did you think? Have you any other recommended shows?
Feel free to comment here or on social media.
Until next time.
Paul
If you are a writer with a tip to share, or fancy writing a fictional interview between you and one of your characters, please feel free to email me.
