48 Hours “The Tree That Helped Solve a Murder” Airs 10PM July 29 2023 on CBS
Prepare for a chilling night of true crime investigation as 48 Hours revisits the harrowing case of Mengqi Ji’s disappearance and the shocking revelations that followed. Tune in on Saturday, July 29, at 10:00-11:00 PM, ET/PT, on the CBS Television Network for an encore presentation of “The Tree That Helped Solve a Murder.”
On October 10, 2019, Joseph Elledge, then 23, reported his wife, Mengqi Ji, missing, claiming that he believed she left him and their young daughter for another man she had an online relationship with. However, when authorities searched the couple’s apartment, a vital piece of evidence emerged – muddy boots belonging to Elledge, with several juniper tree needles stuck to the soles.
Months later, Ji’s remains were tragically found buried beneath a juniper tree, and investigators made a startling connection. The DNA from the juniper tree needles matched the DNA from the tree directly above Ji’s shallow grave, providing crucial evidence that would prove essential in convicting Elledge of her murder.
Join 48 Hours correspondent Peter Van Sant as he unravels the twists and turns of this heart-wrenching case, uncovering how a simple tree and a pair of muddy boots became the key to solving a horrific crime. Discover the meticulous investigative work that led to the truth and the justice Ji’s loved ones had been seeking.
Don’t miss this encore presentation of “The Tree That Helped Solve a Murder” on Saturday, July 29, at 10:00-11:00 PM, ET/PT, on the CBS Television Network.
