Duration
60 minutes
Series Info
Season 2 Episode 2

Quick Summary

In this gripping episode of the documentary series Drive By, detectives Steve Keogh and Steve Whittaker dissect the murder of Aseel Al‑Essaie, while fire, CCTV and phone specialists reveal the forensic trail that led to the breakthrough. A fast‑paced, at‑a‑glance guide for UK viewers, this programme highlights the investigative drama that blends real‑life suspense with expert analysis – a must‑watch episode on UK television for anyone scrolling the television guide for British TV entertainment and Cardiff TV programming.

About This Program

Programme overview Drive By is a hard‑hitting documentary series on Cardiff TV that blends true‑crime investigation with forensic science. In this episode, detectives Steve Keogh and Steve Whittaker lead an in‑depth discussion of the murder of Aseel Al‑Essaie, a case that has dominated headlines across UK television. The episode is positioned as a stand‑alone investigation but also fits within the broader series that examines high‑profile crimes through the eyes of the officers who solved them. Viewers can expect a balanced mix of interview, on‑location footage and expert analysis that delivers full details in a compelling, documentary‑style format. What to expect from the content The episode opens with a concise recap of the Al‑Essaie murder, setting the scene with CCTV stills and fire‑scene photographs. From there, the two Steves walk the audience through the investigative timeline, highlighting how phone‑record data and fire‑safety reports helped to narrow the suspect list. Fire experts explain the role of burn patterns in reconstructing the scene, while CCTV specialists break down the technical challenges of extracting clear images from low‑light footage. Throughout, the detectives provide personal reflections on the pressures of the case, giving UK viewers a rare glimpse into the human side of policing. Key features and highlights Key features include exclusive interviews with forensic fire investigators, a step‑by‑step reconstruction of the crime using 3‑D modelling, and a live demonstration of how phone‑tower triangulation can pinpoint a suspect’s movements. The episode also incorporates a mini‑drama segment that reenacts critical moments, adding a dramatic flair without sacrificing factual accuracy. Each segment is punctuated by clear graphics that illustrate data points, making the technical information accessible to a broad audience. The combination of drama, documentary, and real‑time analysis makes this episode a benchmark for British TV crime programming. Why this programme appeals to UK audiences Drive By taps into the British appetite for true‑crime storytelling that respects both the victims and the investigative process. The presence of two seasoned detectives from the same force adds authenticity, while the inclusion of fire, CCTV and phone experts satisfies viewers who enjoy the technical side of crime solving. The episode’s balanced tone—neither sensationalist nor overly academic—makes it suitable for prime‑time slots on UK television, offering both entertainment and education. For discerning UK viewers seeking a comprehensive guide to a high‑profile case, the episode delivers an in‑depth review that feels both immediate and meticulously researched. Context within Cardiff TV programming Within Cardiff TV programming, Drive By occupies a central place in the network’s commitment to locally produced, high‑quality documentary series. The series sits alongside other flagship programmes that explore Welsh history and contemporary social issues, reinforcing the channel’s reputation for thoughtful, regionally relevant content. By focusing on a case that resonated across the United Kingdom, the episode also strengthens the network’s appeal to a wider British TV audience, positioning Cardiff TV as a source of compelling, investigative entertainment that can stand alongside national broadcasters.

Secrets of a Murder Detective broadcasts on Birmingham TV at 7:00pm, Sunday, 21 September 2025.